Event

The prestigious awards are an annual highlight of the country’s political calendar. Since they were established in 1999, the event has brought people together to promote high standards of political performance and foster constructive relationships between the worlds of politics and business.

The evening is enjoyed by elected officials, key decision makers, commentators and opinion formers.

As well as being hugely enjoyable it recognises the excellent work carried out at both Holyrood and Westminster and recognises politicians – at a national and local level – who have helped to shape events.

PUBLIC CAMPAIGNER OF THE YEAR ENTRY DEADLINE

Thursday, August 10, 2023

EVENT DATE

Thursday, November 23, 2023

EVENT TIME

6.15pm

EVENT LOCATION

Prestonfield House, Edinburgh

Categories

Best Scot at Westminster

The Scottish MP who has made the biggest impact and had most influence in their role at Westminster, either within their own party or for the country.

Donald Dewar Debater of the Year – Supported by Aiir Networks

The MSP who has demonstrated the best debating skills within the Scottish Parliament, either with fellow MSPs or the media. This can be considered on a one speech performance or over the course of the past year.

Committee MSP of the Year

The backbench MSP who has stood out most in Holyrood’s vital committee system. The winner will be a parliamentarian who has shone in the role of scrutinising legislation, inquiring into public policy and holding ministers to account. They will have a talent for finding the right question in committee meetings and presenting their case in committee debates.

Community MSP of the Year

A new category which would have been titled ‘Constituency MSP of the Year’ if Holyrood did not have regional as well constituency MSPs. The winner will be an MSP who has fought hard for people in their constituency or region on a big local issue or high profile individual case.

One to Watch – Supported by ScottishPower

This award will recognise an MSP who demonstrates potential to rise through the ranks of their party and/or in Parliament.

Politics in Business Award

This award recognise s engagement with the business community to create a more business-friendly environment. MSPs, MPs and MEPs are all eligible to be considered.

Public Campaigner of the Year

A public award to recognise an individual or group that has best engaged with the political system to change legislation.

The ScottishPower Green Champion – NEW FOR 2023

New for 2023 this will award an MSP who has worked closely in partnership with businesses and organisations to effect positive strides in relation to environment/ sustainability/Climate Change/NetZero Targets

Scottish Local Politician of the Year

This award recognises the achievements of a politician working within one of the 32 Scottish local authorities. The recipient will demonstrate outstanding and innovative public service and commitment to the community they serve.

Scottish Politician of the Year – Presented by The Herald

The MSP who demonstrates the biggest contribution to the political process in Scotland throughout the year.

Lifetime Achievement Award

This award is not presented on an annual basis but to mark the achievements of an MSP or MP whose political career has a consistent history of service above and beyond the call of duty throughout their career.

Click here to download a list of previous finalists and winners.

FAQ

Who can nominate?

Anyone can submit a nomination into the Public Campaigner of the Year Awards by emailing nina.holmes@newsquest.co.uk with your reasonings behind the nomination.

What is the deadline for entries?

The entry deadline for Public Campaigner of the Year is Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 6pm.

How do I book a table to attend?

Tables of 10 and 12 are available to purchase to the awards evening. Each purchased table will have the opportunity to invite selected MPs and MSPs to join their table. Tables are positioned within the room on a first come first served basis and there are a limited number available.

How does the judging process work?

All the entries we received will be considered by our judging panel at the judging session in October. Please note that the shortlist and winners are decided solely by our panel and do not come down to a public vote or number of nominations received.

When will the shortlist be announced?

The shortlist will be listed in The Herald and on this website in mid-October.

When will the winners be announced?

The winners will be announced at our glittering awards ceremony on Thursday, November 23 at Prestonfield, Edinburgh.

What do I do if I have more questions?

We are happy to answer any additional questions you may have regarding the event or sponsorship opportunities. Please contact Head of Events, Nina Holmes on 07500 998 357 or nina.holmes@newsquest.co.uk with all enquires.