Douglas Alexander MP

Labour MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South

Paisley MP talks political leadership and inspiration in lecture at local University

12 February 2010

Douglas Alexander, local Member of Parliament for Paisley and Renfrewshire South will today deliver the annual Brough lecture, as part of the University of the West of Scotland’s ‘Inspiring People’ Leadership Series.

Alexander, who also serves as Secretary of State for International Development – will argue that we need to see global political leadership and inspiration to tackle the key challenges facing the world in the early 21st century, such as global poverty, climate change and conflict.

He will also argue that tackling these challenges is not only morally right, but in our common interest:

Alexander will say:

“The rapid advance of globalisation means that we can’t escape each other on this shrinking planet.

“Our common prosperity depends on shared sustainable growth. Our common security depends on the emergence of effective and peaceful states around the world. And our common climate requires us to take steps now to safeguard the planet for our children and our grandchildren.

“What is required is the political leadership to face this new set of challenges.”

Speaking before the lecture, Alexander said:

“As Paisley’s local MP, I am honoured to have been invited to deliver this prestigious lecture at our local University – and I think people in Paisley and the local area should be proud of what is being achieved by both students and staff at UWS.”

“Tackling the big challenges facing this country and the world – requires political leadership, inspiration and big choices. Change doesn’t happen by accident.”