The Minister congratulated David Davis on securing a timely debate about issues of probity and accountability in public life. He addressed three broad issues: parliamentary privilege, dual role of the Lord Advocate, and lines of accountability in the Scottish civil service. The Minister explained that Members of this House have more extensive protections under article 9 of the Bill of Rights 1689 compared to Members of the Scottish Parliament who are protected against defamation but not covered by the same statute. He stated that any formal separation of the Lord Advocate’s responsibilities would require legislation in Westminster, while noting that unpicking their roles might entail a complex debate. On civil service accountability, he outlined safeguards for raising concerns and independent assurance mechanisms. The Minister concluded by thanking Davis for raising serious questions about Scottish Parliament's inquiry.