Two minutes to go.

Folks gathered at vantage points to witness the demolition of the Longannet Power Station chimney at 9am. It was a symbolic reminder of the end of coal-fired power generation in Scotland (actually been “coal-free” since ScottishPower closed the power station in 2016). The Scottish Government have set an ambitious target of becoming a Net Zero nation by 2045. The First Minister was on hand, (along with CEO Scottish Power!), to push the button that detonated 700kg of explosives, and brought down the chimney stack. The controlled explosion seemed to go according to plan. Lots of good footage in social media. The chimney has dominated the Firth of Forth skyline for more than 50 years and was the country’s tallest freestanding structure. Many folks have remarked that they’ll miss the well known landmark. Significant other demolition occurred in February. The site is up for redevelopment; pre-pandemic manufacture of fast lightweight trains was being discussed.

Watched FMQs from Holyrood. Some debate in advance of Budget today.

Lots in media about the various Christmas Parties at Westminster, funding of Prime Minister’s flat redecoration (Ministerial Code) etc. It appears the PM became a father for the sixth or seventh time today.

“Given the number of #COVID19 outbreaks that are being linked to Christmas parties, particularly those caused by #Omicron, Public Health Scotland is urging people to defer such parties at this time.” Expect more on Friday.