Talking to People Involved in Politics... Tommy Sheridan, Scottish Member of Parliament (SMP) and member of the Scottish Socialist Party (SSP) We posed a series of questions to all the  parties with candidates standing in the 2001 General Election. Here's what Tommy Sheridan, Scottish Member of Parliament (SMP) and member of the Scottish Socialist Party (SSP) had to say.  Do you think Socialism has as much appeal to today's youth as it did when you were our age?
"Yes!" Do you really think it is a good example for young people for their MSP's to keep getting arrested? "It depends what they're getting arrested for. Obviously if you believe in something enough to get arrested for it, it sends a message that you are prepared to go to the edge for your beliefs."  Would you recommend going to jail for your beliefs?
"No, I wouldn't recommend it, but if there's no other way, see my answer to the last question."
Do you think the blandness amongst the political parties has caused apathy amongst our generation towards politics and politicians?
 "Definitely! Kids today have every reason to be apathetic when they see all the main parties peddling the same old boring, free market agenda."
Do you think the Scottish Assembly has really achieved much? "The Scottish Parliament needs to have much more power to change people's lives in Scotland for the better, i.e. banish poverty and social injustice and provide real equality of opportunity and income, not just talk a good game." Why should young people get involved in politics? "To achieve the goals I stated in my last answer and to show that not all kids are apathetic."  What has been your greatest political achievement to date?
"In my two years as an MSP, undoubtedly the passing of my Bill to Abolish Poindings and Warrant Sales. Before that, helping to get rid of the poll tax in Scotland and bringing down Margaret Thatcher as a consequence of that struggle." The above applies to the political process in the United Kingdom and follows the laws of the UK.
- The Pupiline Team
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