Covid-19: Future UK-EU Relationship

The SNP is calling on the Government to immediately extend the Brexit transition period while navigating the unprecedented health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The European Union has expressed its openness to extending negotiations, but political will from the UK government is required. The Scottish Government's publication titled 'COVID-19: The Case for Extending the Brexit Transition Period' highlights the severe economic impact of a no-deal exit, with GDP potentially falling by 13% to 14%, causing significant job losses and potential unemployment for close to 2 million furloughed workers. An extension would allow more time for negotiations and mitigate the economic damage.

Responding to Ian Blackford, Douglas Ross questioned whether it is fair that Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, highlighting that during the COVID-19 pandemic, more than £10 billion has been provided by the UK Government to support Scotland. He asked if Scottish National party members are grateful for this support from the broader Union.

Craig Mackinlay challenged Ian Blackford, noting that more people in Scotland voted for Brexit than have ever voted for the SNP. He asked if a dropped crisp packet would be sufficient reason to seek an extension of the implementation period or scrap the project altogether.

Highlights issues with Brexit readiness and economic risks. Mentions that businesses are unprepared due to the pandemic and criticises the UK government for not extending the transition period. He also mentions a potential £3 billion hit to Scotland's economy over two years, and discusses increased support for Scottish independence.

Challenges Blackford with information from the CBI that extending the transition period would create uncertainty for businesses. He questions whether Blackford has any additional insights beyond what is known by business organisations.

Supports Blackford's stance on polling, suggesting that regular polls paid for by taxpayers show increasing support for Scottish independence. He questions the necessity of publishing these results to understand public opinion better.

The UK Government's proposal to establish an unelected external body to determine whether a Bill in the Scottish Parliament has met a new test is undemocratic. This would allow Westminster to block legislative processes under the guise of this new body, threatening Scotland’s high food standards and successful policies such as minimum unit pricing for alcohol. Any forthcoming legislation needs consent from the Scottish Parliament.

Member expresses dissent against SNP views without providing a detailed policy or statistic.

Member interjects 'No, it’s not', in response to Blackford's comments about the UK election results, indicating disagreement but without elaborating on a policy position.

The Government will not extend the transition period as it is enshrined in law, goes against the mandate of the UK government, and would hinder economic recovery. The debate aims to sow division rather than practical measures for businesses.

Asked how ending free movement will help businesses when they are already struggling to find workers, particularly in the agricultural sector and how it affects food exports.

Addressed issues raised by the report including potential GDP losses from a delay and compared them to the cost of Scottish independence. Emphasised support for businesses through schemes like the £705 million investment in border infrastructure.

Asked about the impact on Scotland's food sector, which exports £1.8 billion worth of products to the EU annually and questioned how many businesses had been consulted.

Responded that extensive consultations have taken place with business leaders and officials across Whitehall and urged SNP to adapt, cooperate and find common ground for the benefit of all citizens.

Asked the Minister to name any part of the SNP's document containing compromises on the single market and customs union, and questioned why the UK Government would not compromise.

Emphasised that the Government has taken steps to listen to devolved Administrations by changing their negotiating mandate. She criticised the SNP for standing up meetings and called on them to find common ground.

Called out Members who were incorrectly using informal language in addressing others, reminding everyone that they should use formal terms like 'the hon. Gentleman' or 'the hon. Lady'.

Critiqued the Government's approach to negotiations and stressed the importance of securing a deal that protects workers’ rights, consumer protection, environmental standards, and food safety. He highlighted concerns from various sectors such as business, police, and Northern Ireland.

Asked Paul Blomfield to elaborate on Labour's stance and questioned why Labour Back Benchers were not participating in the debate.

Accused Paul Blomfield of not representing his constituents adequately by not having enough Labour Back Benchers participate in the debate.

Expands on the concern for devolved Administrations in relation to free trade agreements and organisations like the Trade Remedies Authority, expressing fear that these bodies will not be adequately involved or consulted.

Warns against lack of real consultation with devolved Administrations, stressing the need for the Government to respect and engage effectively with them. Emphasises the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic and calls for a deal that meets the UK's ambition.

Critiques SNP’s motives for calling for an extension to the transition period as being about creating uncertainty and chaos rather than economic recovery. Supports the UK Government's commitment not to extend the transition period at the end of 2020.

Questions the consistency in SNP’s motives for wanting to drag Scotland out of one union while using another, expressing confusion over their intent.

Continues his argument about support given by the UK Government during the pandemic, emphasising the importance of protecting the UK single market. Criticises suggestions that Scotland may close its border with England.

Raises a point of order to defend SNP Members from accusations of stoking racism.

No extracted contribution text available for this contributor yet.

Responds to Patrick Grady's point of order, reiterates his stance on the unacceptable behaviour towards those crossing the border.

Defends SNP against accusations of racism and anti-Englishness. Suggests that borders may temporarily close for controlling the virus, referencing Australia's practice.

Reiterates his stance on condemning the unacceptable behaviour at the border.

Supports John Lamont's concerns about difficulties in border communities as a result of Cardiff pulling further from London, causing confusion for border communities such as his own.

Expresses concern over the SNP's economic mismanagement in Scotland. Points out that Scotland’s deficit is six times higher than the UK’s and unemployment rates are higher compared to other parts of the UK. Criticises the SNP for deterring people from visiting Scotland, costing jobs, failing in education, NHS, crime reduction, emissions targets, and broadband extension.

Expresses gratitude to the armed forces for their role in tackling the pandemic regardless of national boundaries within the UK.

Critiques SNP's support for independence as it would lead Scotland back into EU policies such as common fisheries policy. Describes SNP’s actions as causing division and uncertainty in Scotland, aiming to undermine the UK’s internal market.

Responds to John Lamont's speech by dismissing it as hysterical. Criticises the UK government for pursuing a policy rejected by Scotland in the 2016 EU referendum and argues that democracy is an evolving process allowing people to change their minds about independence.

Stresses that Scotland is open, welcoming people from England. Clarifies that public health issues are handled responsibly by the First Minister of Scotland.

Thanked the MP who initiated the debate, emphasising the strengthening desire among Scots to remain part of the European Union due to Britain's exit from it. He cited multiple opinion polls indicating a growing support for Scottish independence due to UK's handling of Brexit and argued that Scotland is moving towards becoming an independent nation, framed not as 'should' or 'could', but rather in terms of 'how' and 'when'. Mentioned the academic views which suggest the weakening foundations of public support for the Union. Emphasised that Scots with pragmatic viewpoints are increasingly supporting Scottish independence due to the UK's imprudent approach towards Brexit.

Asked a brief question regarding Brendan O'Hara's point but was not given an opportunity to speak further in the provided text.

Spoke about his constituency of Leigh where nearly two-thirds voted to leave the EU. He highlighted specific areas within his constituency that showed overwhelming support for leaving the EU, despite being traditionally Labour voting areas. Emphasised the trust placed in him by his constituents and stated it would be wrong to betray this trust by supporting an extension of the transition period with the EU as it would prolong political turmoil and harm businesses that have prepared for Brexit over years.

Critiqued James Grundy's argument and expressed concern about the impact of no-deal Brexit on Scotland during a potential second wave of the pandemic. Drew mentioned that his constituents did not vote for Brexit and are against it, highlighting economic losses estimated at £3 billion due to leaving the EU.

Asked Drew Hendry if he was criticising the Government for planning for all eventualities regarding a pandemic, questioning whether the SNP Scottish Government is not doing the same.

The hon. Member highlighted Scotland's planned virus elimination strategy, criticised the loss of over £800 million in EU structural funding and the lack of clarity on post-Brexit shared prosperity fund details. He expressed concern about young people being disproportionately affected by economic downturns due to Brexit.

The hon. Member attempted to interrupt Drew Hendry but was not granted time to speak.

The hon. Member dismissed the SNP's arguments as repetitive and challenged them to provide an example of a power being 'grabbed' by the UK Government under the devolution settlement, suggesting that no such instance exists.

The hon. Member argued that the proposal to transfer EU funding control from Brussels to London via the Scotland Office constitutes a power grab and reiterated the importance of EU structural funds for economic growth.

The hon. Member insisted that under devolution principles, powers not reserved to Westminster are devolved to Holyrood, thus the UK Government's proposal represents a power grab.

He argues that Scottish Conservatives outnumber Labour members in this debate and criticises SNP for not mentioning fishing, which is a significant issue in Scotland. He emphasises that an extension would cause uncertainty for the fishing industry. He also questions SNP's position on taking Scotland back into the EU common fisheries policy.

She challenges the assertion made by Conservative members that UK would have complete control over its waters post-Brexit, citing UNCLOS regulations which suggest otherwise. She points out that other countries in the EU will likely contest this claim.

Reiterates his argument about UK's control over its waters post-Brexit and mentions how a short extension to the transition period could negatively impact the fishing industry. He also criticises SNP for not informing the public of Scotland’s first case of COVID-19 during the pandemic.

Questions Douglas Ross about his opinion on SNP's stance regarding the economic dislocation caused by leaving both the EU and the UK, expressing confusion over this contradiction in their arguments.

Agrees with Christine Jardine’s observation and criticises the SNP for their narrow-mindedness. He praises the UK Government's pandemic response efforts, highlighting support measures like £13 billion in funding to protect jobs.

Acknowledges the collaborative work done during the pandemic, mentioning a successful outbreak control effort involving both NHS Highland and UK-wide testing. He asks for further flexibility in job retention schemes to support rural industries.

Thanks Ian Blackford for his remarks, noting some consensual discussion between opposing sides. He highlights that the Chancellor and UK Government have already provided flexibility to the job retention scheme based on concerns from businesses.

Defended the UK Government's financial contributions to Scotland, emphasising that despite SNP claims of insufficient support, £13 billion has been invested in Scottish constituencies. He also criticised the SNP for not speaking for all of Scotland and dismissed attempts by other Members to question his statistics.

Asked Douglas Ross about the disparity between Scotland's population share and its borrowing allocation, questioning why only 0.1% of a £30 billion fund was allocated to Scotland despite it having 8.3% of the UK’s population.

Teased Douglas Ross about his repeated use of phrases like 'broad shoulders' and 'independent coastal state'.

Challenged Ross on the number of covid-19 tests conducted by UK versus Scottish Government, citing statistics showing higher numbers from NHS labs in Scotland.

Called for a more consensual and respectful approach to finding solutions given conflicting views on Brexit across the UK. Emphasised that Scotland voted to remain, while England voted to leave, leading to current economic challenges.

Questioned Alyn Smith about the consistency in his arguments regarding Brexit extension and previously trying to block it completely.

Responds to Alyn Smith's comments about Ireland joining the UN Security Council, suggesting that Scotland's current status as part of a successful union should be valued.

Defends his argument for Scottish independence within the EU by highlighting the lack of faith in UK government under Conservatives and the threadbare promises made to voters during the 2014 referendum. Criticises the legitimacy of the current UK Government among Scots and points towards Ireland as an example of what independence in Europe can look like.

Criticises SNP's approach to constitutional changes, arguing that Scotland voted for Brexit and criticises the Labour party for its inconsistent stance on Brexit. Emphasises the importance of governing according to the 2016 referendum result.

Fletcher challenged Brown's assertion about Scotland's superior handling of care home deaths during the pandemic, suggesting that the death rates in care homes might not be as favourable for Scotland compared to England.

Brown defended his claim by stating that while there are issues with the care home deaths, Scotland has had no recorded covid-19 deaths for over a week, indicating better overall handling of the pandemic.

Holmes argued that the lower death rate in Scotland was expected due to its smaller population and criticised Brown for implying that Scottish Government outperformed UK government on handling the pandemic.

Brown reasserted his point, emphasising that despite the population difference, Scotland's current status of zero daily deaths contrasts sharply with ongoing daily fatalities in England.

Bowie criticised Brown for suggesting that UK Government funding bypassed Scotland, asserting it actually bypassed the Scottish Government. He argued this highlights an issue of trust in the distribution of funds across regions.

Brown countered Bowie's argument by discussing the concept of a 'power grab' where UK government attempts to bypass Scottish Government, emphasising Scotland’s need for independence in fiscal decisions.

Stone questioned Brown about details regarding the shared prosperity fund's implications for Scotland, highlighting past benefits from EU funding and concern over its future replacement.

Agrees with the hon. Gentleman on European funding benefits in Scotland, criticises the lack of clarity regarding the shared prosperity fund, disputes claims that the Scottish Parliament is the most powerful in the world, asserts that independence support has grown to 54% according to polls.

Questions the relevance of opinion polls compared to actual votes at the ballot box, referencing the Scottish independence referendum.

Reiterates that current opinion polls consistently show record support for independence in Scotland, criticises Unionist Members for not understanding Scottish sentiment, insists on the inevitability of a future referendum.

Welcomes the Minister’s commitment to sticking to the Brexit deadline, argues against further delay in negotiations, highlights the importance of certainty for businesses, criticises the SNP motion as a cover for their desire to overturn the 2016 referendum result.

Supports the notion that four years is sufficient time for negotiating a Brexit deal with the EU, aligning with his Conservative colleague's stance.

Acknowledges Labour's poor electoral strategy, urges them to listen to British people’s desire for an outward-looking nation, highlights the benefits of securing deals with countries outside the EU, expresses optimism about a Brexit deal that protects legal autonomy.

Emphasised that the post-Brexit referendum power should have been closer to people, criticising UK's centralisation of power and undermining devolution. Noted 46% of Welsh businesses having less than six months' cash reserves due to upcoming customs declarations and increased costs. Highlighted job losses in Wales and threatened cuts at Urdd, a cultural organisation crucial for Welsh language survival.

Acknowledged the Welsh Government's absence from the debate despite Labour being in power there, criticising their lack of representation.

Asked about support for cultural events such as the Royal Welsh Show, reinforcing the importance of these events to Welsh culture and language.

Argued against SNP's motion that negotiations have continued effectively despite the pandemic, dismissing concerns about remote working efficiency.

Responded to Andrew Bowie, pointing out that more SNP members would have participated if remote participation was allowed and questioning the success of Brexit given public sentiment towards independence in Scotland.

Andrew Bowie highlighted that the Scottish National Party only secured 45% of votes in the December election, indicating a majority preference for remaining within the UK. He argued against the SNP's approach to Brexit negotiations, stressing the need for clear deadlines to ensure effective outcomes. He welcomed the Chancellor's economic stimulus package and dismissed concerns about Scotland's oil and gas sector being unsupported.

Stephen Flynn questioned whether Andrew Bowie shares his concern that Brexit will severely impact Scotland economically. He challenged the effectiveness of the Chancellor's recent economic package, particularly regarding support for Scotland’s oil and gas sector.

Scotland is facing a health crisis exacerbated by Brexit. The UK's refusal to extend the transition period undermines its relationship with EU allies. Businesses in Scotland are uncertain about post-Brexit trading arrangements, leading to potential economic disaster. Newlands criticises the incompetence and ideology of the UK Government which has allowed de-industrialisation and emigration from Scotland. He argues for an independent Scotland within the EU.

Responded to Newlands, arguing that extending the transition period would prolong uncertainty for businesses instead of providing clarity through a deal.

There have been relatively few opportunities for me, as a new MP, to debate the current negotiations with the EU during this Session. The Government confirmed that some 250 million customs declarations will be required every year, at a cost of £13 billion per annum. Members on the Government Benches might criticise me for talking Britain down but as I highlighted in my question to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster earlier this week, the current actual financial opportunities identified by the Government equate to absolutely zero.

Mr Anderson argues that the debate is about accepting democracy, noting that his constituents voted for Brexit with hope for recovery. He criticises Opposition parties for not respecting the democratic will of voters and advises Labour to listen more to their voters.

Mr Smith, while not provided with a full speech in the snippet, was attempting to intervene during Mr Anderson's speech.

Mr Brown also attempted to intervene during Mr Anderson's speech but was not given an opportunity to speak.

Ms Oswald similarly tried to interrupt Mr Anderson's speech without success.

The path being steered by the UK Government is compounding economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19. The Scottish people, who rejected Brexit by a three to one ratio, see through the spin, bluster and deceit of this government's response. Labour voters in Scotland also approve of the Scottish Government’s handling of the pandemic over that of Westminster.

The debate is about the effect of coronavirus on UK-EU negotiations but has become a platform for SNP and Labour to push for delaying Brexit. The British people voted for Brexit in 2016, yet delays continue. This House must leave at the end of the year regardless of challenges presented by coronavirus or geopolitical tensions.

Asked whether Alexander Stafford believes Scots cannot have another referendum despite voting in 2014, implying a democratic right to revisit decisions based on changing circumstances.

Calls for extending the Brexit transition period due to the global crisis. Criticises the Government's refusal to negotiate sensibly with European partners, highlighting the UK being locked out of the Galileo satellite programme and a £500 million investment in OneWeb. Emphasises that devolution has allowed people across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to develop their own solutions rather than toeing the line from the Tories. Suggests that the current Government's actions are disrespectful towards democratic structures and institutions.

Did not provide a detailed contribution in the given text.

Supports the UK's exit from the EU and the certainty it brings. Discusses the potential for free ports and an independent, trading United Kingdom looking out to new trade deals with other economies. Highlights the points-based system for immigration control. Stresses that it is time to move on and look forward to a shared future making the most of trade opportunities.

The speaker criticises the UK Government for dismantling devolution, pointing out that they cannot win elections in Scotland and thus seek to dismantle institutions. She emphasises that support for Scottish independence is growing due to the Tory's disregard of democratic wishes.

The Conservative Member argues against extending the Brexit transition period, highlighting the strength and historical success of the Union. She mentions that Scotland benefits more from trade with the rest of the UK than with the EU, and outlines various opportunities for growth post-Brexit.

The people of Aberdeen voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU, yet their voices are being ignored. The Scottish Parliament, which has different policies from the UK on issues like procurement and food standards, will lose control over these matters due to Brexit. This is a stark example of democracy being undermined as Scotland's views on the European Union are disregarded by the current government.

My constituents in Redcar celebrated leaving the EU with relief after years of uncertainty. They trusted me and the Conservative party to deliver Brexit, a choice they made based on their vote in 2016's referendum. I will not betray that trust by supporting any motion that seeks to extend the transition period or delay the outcome of the referendum. Our goal is to reach an agreement with the EU based on a Canada-style free trade deal and leave without if necessary.

The people of Ynys Môn voted to leave the EU in June 2016 and I was elected on a manifesto committed to delivering that. The UK needs certainty post-Brexit and businesses need clear foundations to plan for. Wales has seen significant investment from the UK Government, including £1.5 billion for railway infrastructure and other initiatives. An extension to the transition period would not be in Ynys Môn's best interests.

The debate is more about political point-scoring than addressing Scotland's needs. I am torn between supporting the UK Government and the SNP's argument for independence. The SNP does not speak for the majority of Scots, only 45%. Tearing Scotland out of the EU will be bad, but tearing it from the UK would likely be worse economically.

Not provided in transcript; there is a request for interruption but no speech content given.

It is an honour to follow the hon. Member for Edinburgh West and I agree that it is time to move on from this debate, which the Government Members want. My constituents voted overwhelmingly to leave the EU and elected a representative who respects their decision. Businesses in my constituency expressed concern over uncertainty and needed clarity, which the Conservative Government provided by not extending the transition period deadline beyond 31 December. The UK will forge new trade agreements with countries specific to our market and benefit our economy, providing more job opportunities as we escape EU control. I stand firmly against SNP's proposal for an extension of the transition period.

I will support the motion this evening because Brexit disrupts Northern Ireland’s stability and operation, entailing new divisions and friction. The withdrawal agreement respects the principle of consent but poses significant challenges for implementation due to the lack of readiness. While the Northern Ireland Assembly voted to support an extension, we face a significant economic hit from both covid and Brexit's disruption, with OECD predicting that the UK economy will suffer greatly. There is not enough preparation for the protocol’s implementation in Northern Ireland; businesses are left uncertain without crucial information about infrastructure and staffing requirements, damaging the economy every day uncertainty continues.

Spoke about the impact of covid-19 on people's lives, highlighted job and business losses in his constituency. Called for less grandstanding in negotiations to sort out problems. Emphasised support for Northern Ireland through constructive dialogue, supporting a sensible way forward post-Brexit.

Provided a quick comment on the referendum result in his constituency, correcting it to 52% leave, emphasising the close vote.

Congratulates Mr Deputy Speaker on his position. Criticises SNP for focusing on narrow-minded, party interests during a time of national importance and mentions Labour's absence in the debate. Emphasises that the Union needs protecting against the SNP’s pursuit of independence.

Agrees with most of what Christine Jardine said but disagrees on her voting position. Reflects on the strength of the Union in responding to the coronavirus pandemic, mentioning that 11,000 jobs have been saved by the furlough scheme in his constituency and emphasises the importance of remaining part of the United Kingdom.

Endorses comments made by the Paymaster General about why the debate is taking place during a global pandemic. Highlights support from the UK government for local businesses, farmers, and job retention schemes during the coronavirus crisis. Emphasises that there should be no room for uncertainty or delay in Brexit negotiations.

Critiques repeated debates on Brexit, advocating for sticking to set deadlines to give businesses and the nation certainty. Agrees with the CBI director general that further delaying transition is not of interest to business.

Clarifies his social distancing from the Labour party members present during the debate, indicating he is an independent member or from another party.

Critiques Labour's stance on Brexit, likening their policy to a difficult-to-assemble product from IKEA. Emphasises that the debate is a waste of time as Brexit will happen regardless of whether there is a deal.

Argues that the debate is about stopping Brexit rather than about COVID's impact on EU negotiations. Criticises Labour for not standing up to speak and supports free trade agreements without regulatory constraints.

Asks where the SNP Member of Parliament is, implying that he was mentioned in Marco Longhi's speech but did not respond. Does not contribute a substantial policy position.

Supports leaving the EU on December 31st as per the law, criticises Labour for not having a clear stance and supports a free trade agreement with the EU.

Critiques Labour Party for lack of decisiveness, highlights benefits of ruling out transition period extension for businesses. Criticises SNP for focusing on independence rather than addressing education failures in Scotland.

Defends Peterborough's economy despite challenges from COVID-19, criticises potential further Brexit delay for causing uncertainty. Emphasises the importance of fulfilling promises made to constituents and maintaining UK Union.

Emphasises that both independence and rejoining the EU were rejected by Scottish voters in previous referendums. Highlights educational failures under SNP rule, criticising their response to literacy and numeracy surveys. Raises concerns about delays in critical infrastructure projects such as the new children's hospital and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

No substantial contribution provided, only noted that no clapping should occur.

Responds to the debate by stating that support for Scottish independence is at 54% with sustained majority support since the beginning of the year, predicting a strong performance for the SNP in upcoming elections due to the continued anti-Scottish rhetoric from Conservative MPs.

Questions Pete Wishart about opinion polls and challenges him to address issues regarding the Scottish Government's record on education, infrastructure projects, and healthcare.

Support for Scottish independence stands at 54%, while support for the SNP is at 55% with a satisfaction rating of 74%. The debate highlights the disparity between Scotland's desire to remain in the EU and the UK's Brexit decision. It calls for peaceful separation or allowing England its Brexit, while Scotland pursues its own path within the EU.

Indicated dissent but did not make a formal speech during the debate.

Scotland’s voice will be heard. He disagrees with the UK internal market proposals and believes they are disrespectful to the devolution settlement.

Describes the UK Government's plans as a 'super-state' arriving in Scotland, with unelected bureaucrats determining Scottish parliamentary legislation. He asserts that Scotland will become an independent nation within a year.

Disagrees with the SNP's stance and argues that UK internal market proposals are not about disrespecting devolution or power grabs. He claims these proposals help businesses across the United Kingdom by ensuring they can trade without restrictions, barriers or costs.

Stewart argued against extending the Brexit transition period, emphasising respect for the results of both the Scottish independence referendum in 2014 and the UK's Brexit referendum in 2016. He highlighted contributions from his colleagues who supported the current government position on Brexit. Stewart criticised the opposition Labour party for not showing up to debate, questioning their stance on respecting the result of the Brexit vote. He also pointed out that extending the transition period could lead to further debates and delays, while failing to address potential costs and disruptions.

Grady raised a point of order regarding the briefing of a White Paper by the UK Government without informing devolved institutions. He expressed anger at the media briefings ahead of the House and sought to summon a minister for an urgent explanation.

Blackford raised a point of order regarding the briefing of a White Paper by the UK Government without informing devolved institutions. He expressed anger at the media briefings ahead of the House and sought to summon a minister for an urgent explanation.

Winterton responded to Grady's point of order, noting that the government will make a statement tomorrow on this issue and urged him to have his concerns heard then. She also addressed another point of order regarding Labour’s absence from debates.

Young raised a point of order questioning the hypocrisy of the Labour party criticising the government for not voting on an Opposition day motion when Labour itself did not show up to today's debate.

Ms. Winterton emphasised the importance of respecting each other's right to make decisions on voting, suggesting that it is every individual’s prerogative whether or not to participate in debates and to abstain if they choose.