Motion text
That this House celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005, which stemmed from a private members' bill lodged by Elaine Smith, former Labour MSP for Coatbridge and Chryston, and Central Scotland, to support and promote breastfeeding; recognises that breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for babies and young children, supporting their health in the short and long term and benefitting maternal health, including by reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer; notes the positive impact of the Act in helping increase breastfeeding rates in Scotland, with recent infant feeding statistics from Public Health Scotland showing significant rises over the past decade, both at the first visit and the 6 to 8 week review; supports the fact that these increases have been most marked among groups with historically lower rates, such as younger women and those in more deprived areas, thereby helping to reduce inequalities in breastfeeding; commends NHS staff and wider public service workers who promote and support breastfeeding mothers, babies and families; acknowledges that breastfeeding fosters a unique bond between mother and baby, provides ideal nutrition tailored to each infant, and delivers important health benefits for both; and further supports World Breastfeeding Week, taking place from 1 to 7 August 2025, with the theme entitled Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems, which highlights the need to strengthen supportive environments for breastfeeding while also reducing the environmental impact of artificial feeding, contributing to global efforts to address climate change and promote sustainability for future generations.
Signatures (5)
The first 6 Members who have signed to support the motion are the sponsors. The primary sponsor is generally the person who tabled the motion and has responsibility for it. The date shown is when the Member signed the motion.
There are no withdrawn signatures for this motion.