Asked Sheppard about his party's leader's statement regarding the 'once-in-a-generation' referendum.

Questioned whether an independent Scotland would face difficulties in rejoining the EU, given Spain's stance on Catalonia and geographical considerations.

Suggested focusing on education reform before the May elections and asked about the SNP’s record since 2007.

Asked Sheppard whether a second referendum would be ruled out if the SNP does not get a majority in the upcoming election.

Inquired about recent independence polls showing 57% against separation and asked for reasons behind this shift in public opinion.

The motion does not focus on anything practical or suggest solutions to the real challenges facing people at the moment. It focuses instead on promoting separation and another referendum on independence, which is irresponsible during a time of recovery from the worst public health crisis in a century and the deepest recession in history. The UK Government have collaborated across various sectors such as vaccine distribution, testing sites, economic growth, and infrastructure development to support Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom.

The SNP's focus on independence during a health and economic crisis is inappropriate. The party cannot defend its record in government for the last 14 years, and there are no positive policies presented to address current issues in Scotland. Recent polls show declining support for independence, suggesting that people are questioning the benefits of separation due to the effectiveness of UK-wide efforts in areas such as vaccine roll-out and economic recovery.

Called for order and discussed the timing of referendums, focusing on current political climate and upcoming elections.

Critiqued the SNP's stance on another independence referendum, emphasising past promises and lack of focus on recovery. He also pointed out that no realistic plan for Scotland's post-pandemic recovery exists under current governance.

Discussed common challenges faced by Scotland and the north of England due to neglect from central government, emphasising the importance of economic ties and advocating for a devolved Britain where power is shared between regions and nations.

The SNP's obsession with independence referendums is out of step with Scottish people's priorities. The party has failed on education promises, GP shortages, hospital delays, job creation rates, rural broadband delivery, and transparency issues like the Salmond/Sturgeon affair.

The SNP's focus on independence is a distraction from real issues in health and education that they have failed to address after 14 years in power.

Questions the Conservative stance on independence, noting inconsistencies between their rhetoric and campaign materials.

Corrects an intervention by David Linden regarding party affiliation.

Advocates for a more humane approach to immigration and asylum in Scotland, proposing an independent system to avoid the complexities of the current UK Home Office policies. Suggests building a system that reflects Scotland's inclusive outlook on citizenship and refuge.

Mr Benn declared his interest in Scotland due to family ties. He disagreed with the case for Scottish independence, stating that it undervalued Scotland and fostered grievance. Mr Benn highlighted the benefits of the Union, such as security and economic stability through a single currency backed by the Treasury. He questioned the wisdom of arguing for separation given the current challenges facing the UK.

Ms Laing mentioned her Scottish heritage and attested to Mr Benn's grandmother attending school with her, although not at the same time. No substantial contribution on policy or debate topic was made by Ms Laing.

He criticised the SNP for prioritising independence over recovery from the pandemic, and accused them of wanting another referendum within a year despite the ongoing crisis. He also pointed out that the SNP's White Paper may have been misleading to voters.

He raised a point of order regarding an alleged disrespectful gesture made by Tommy Sheppard during the debate.

She mediated between John Lamont and Tommy Sheppard, asking for clarification on the incident and calling for courtesy among Members.

He clarified that he had no intention to offend with his gesture and stated that Scotland should be allowed to hold a referendum on independence, arguing that it is the democratic right of the Scottish people.

He argued for the right of Scotland to gain independence through a plebiscite election due to the denial of a proper referendum by the British Government. He also criticised the motivations behind Britain's stance on Scottish independence, suggesting that it is driven by the interests of the wealthy elite rather than the needs of the Scottish people.

Edwards criticised the UK Government's actions towards public protest rights, reflecting their stance on Scotland’s independence referendum. He emphasised that Wales is watching developments in Scotland closely as it reconsiders its own status within the Union. Edwards pointed out that the Labour party has often endorsed ultimate Westminster primacy despite governing Wales independently. This complacency leads to a broken funding system and high poverty rates, particularly affecting those with least means during crises.

Holmes spoke as a proud Unionist against Scottish separation, citing recent polls showing 57% opposition to separation from the UK. He criticised the SNP's governance record on economic, educational, and public safety fronts. Holmes accused the SNP of using calls for independence as a face-saving measure after their failures in office, stressing that this is becoming clear to the people of Scotland.

Chris Matheson criticises the SNP for its narrow nationalism, arguing that it is similar to the Conservatives in promoting division. He emphasises that Scottish independence would weaken Scotland economically and politically, as predicted by experts. He urges Scots not to fall for nationalist rhetoric and instead vote for Labour to scrutinise the effects of independence.

Intervenes to point out that Labour lost voters in Scotland due to its weak stance on the Union, which allowed the SNP to gain support. This intervention highlights a critique of Labour's handling of Scottish politics.

Responds by suggesting that Scotland should be forward-looking and not tied to what he perceives as a backward Britain. He argues for the importance of electing representatives of one's choosing to control their own destiny.

Saqib Bhatti emphasises the unity and value of the United Kingdom, highlighting Scotland’s economic contributions and cultural impact. He argues that maintaining the Union provides stability and supports jobs and businesses in Scotland.

The Scottish National Party has failed to engage with the issues that matter such as jobs, economy, climate change and education. The SNP is consumed by internal problems and out of touch with ordinary Scots' priorities. Recovery from the pandemic should be prioritised over a referendum, advocating for investment in green jobs, quality education, mental health services, tackling climate emergency, and focusing on economic recovery.

Independence calls to some but it is not practical or realistic. An independent Scotland would face complex trade negotiations with the UK and EU, a higher deficit than EU targets, an ageing population and higher public spending. Most of Scotland's trade is within the UK, tourism largely comes from the UK too. Independence increases risks for both Scotland and rest of the UK. A strong United Kingdom offers certainty and security.

A country in a voluntary union should have the right to choose its future constitutionally. The political changes since 2014 suggest it is time for another referendum. Differences on Brexit, confidence in Scottish Government's pandemic handling and the Northern Ireland Act providing for repeat referendums within seven years highlight the need for reconsideration. Radical steps are necessary now to transform Scotland with full control over decisions affecting its economy and society.

It saddens me when time is used to discuss separation. While I have faith in Scotland, I worry about the loss of its contribution to the UK in strategic, economic and cultural terms. For example, Scotland hosts major cultural events like the Edinburgh festival and contributes significantly through exports such as whisky. It also plays a crucial role in defence, intercepting Russian bombers from Scottish air bases. Additionally, family ties across the Union are important, exemplified by my sister’s fiancé’s clan tie donation. The SNP’s constant push for separation distracts from their responsibilities in areas like education and local government finance.

I oppose Scottish independence because it aligns with my stance against Brexit, as both promote division over unity. The SNP’s claims that Westminster is the source of all Scotland's problems are akin to those used for Brexit, and they cannot be substantiated. Under the SNP’s leadership, homelessness and drug deaths have increased significantly. We should not repeat past divisions but strengthen our Union, which has a history of achieving great things together. As we recover from the pandemic, we must ensure Scotland remains a vital part of the United Kingdom.

The SNP's focus on another independence referendum is surprising given the pressing issues in Scotland. The party fails to address education, economy, health, drug deaths, infrastructure, broadband, local government funding, and civil service impartiality adequately. The SNP has widened the attainment gap for disadvantaged students, failed to meet treatment time guarantees in healthcare, and seen high rates of drug-related deaths under its watch. Additionally, their goal of universal superfast broadband is far behind schedule. These issues highlight the party's decline, with support for Scottish independence decreasing consistently.

Scotland’s experience under the Union has been detrimental, with industrial decline, population loss, welfare cuts, infrastructure neglect, and political disinterest. The Union connectivity review is seen as an overreach by a Government without mandate in Scotland or other UK nations. The SNP's campaign for independence reflects historical grievances like the poll tax and seeks to seize economic opportunities post-referendum. Independence aims at transformative change for Scotland.

While sympathizing with the SNP, the debate on Scottish independence is repetitive and fails to address pressing issues such as recovery from the pandemic, vaccine rollout, furlough scheme effectiveness, and green future initiatives. The Union connectivity review and past referendums highlight a diminishing support for separatism among Scots who prefer focusing on shared challenges.

The debate on Scottish independence has broader implications beyond Scotland, especially during the pandemic recovery. The record of the Scottish Government is concerning with high poverty rates, poor NHS performance, and underfunded education systems. Independence risks ethical issues within the SNP and economic isolationism. Labour offers an alternative to unite Scotland and support a fairer United Kingdom.

She criticises the SNP for attempting to hold another referendum on Scottish independence despite a previous clear vote, arguing it divides families and communities at an economically challenging time due to the pandemic. She encourages focusing on day-to-day issues rather than constitutional changes.

She questions why the proposition that Scotland has the right to choose its own future is controversial, asserting that denying democracy leads to increased support for the SNP. She argues that an SNP majority will secure a mandate for another independence referendum.

He discusses personal experiences and economic benefits of the United Kingdom, including cross-border investments and shared resources during the pandemic. He emphasises the importance of identity and unity over mere financial gains.

I am not a mongrel. I am one of the few people speaking in the debate who does not have any Scottish blood, but I very much enjoyed the time that I spent campaigning in Scotland during the independence referendum in 2014. We had the debate in 2014. The hon. and learned Member for Edinburgh South West (Joanna Cherry) said that we could have one every seven years or so, but it is clear that she wants to keep having the debate time and again in the hope that one time, on one day, they might just get over the line by 0.1%, and then there are no more referendums—then it will be over and the decision has been made. The referendum in 2014 was pretty decisive, with 55% to 45% in favour of remaining in the Union. We keep hearing from the SNP that Scotland is being dragged out of the European Union against its will, but more Scottish people voted to stay a part of the UK than voted to remain a part of the European Union. In the event that Scotland leaves the United Kingdom, there will be a huge economic hit to Scotland and England. I have businesses in my constituency that have just discovered how difficult it now is to sell into the European Union as a result of Brexit. The hon. Member for Edinburgh South listed a variety of questions about independence that we never have a debate on and that remain unanswered, making Scottish independence far more economically reckless than it would have been back in 2014.

We have been playing a guessing game in the Parliamentary Private Secretaries’ WhatsApp group about the possible subject of this debate. The running joke was that whatever it was—fisheries, education or colonising the moon—it was actually going to be about separatism. As a card-carrying member of the Conservative and Unionist party, I am not in favour of smashing up a successful 300-year-old Union based on petty spite and grievance. My seat of Heywood and Middleton is in the north-west of England, and we are the only region to be represented by MPs from all four of the home nations. We border Scotland and Wales, as well as four other English regions, and they make us who we are; they enrich us. The SNP does not have a mandate for another divisive referendum; it is barely getting on with the day job that it was elected to do. It looks increasingly like another diversion tactic to move the focus away from yet another botched policy or another sex scandal swept under the First Minister’s living room carpet.

I have listened to the debate with wry interest because of my past involvement in Scottish politics. I am saddened by the current state of centralisation within the Scottish Parliament and believe that democracy is at risk. The SNP's discussions about complete control are concerning, especially given the pandemic's impact on mental health and general suffering. Scotland needs to repair its democratic institutions first before considering another independence referendum. I support the Union for reasons related to defence and economic stability.

I agree with our Scottish Liberal Democrat colleagues about the benefits of the Union, including shared fiscal resources and economic ties between Scotland and the rest of the UK. Economically, 60% of Scotland's exports come to the rest of the UK, particularly in whisky which supports over 10,000 jobs. Scotland is also crucial for UK defence, scientific advancement, and cultural heritage. The Union enriches us culturally and economically, making all parts stronger together.

Scotland's pride stems from its economic strength, which can only be achieved through unity within the UK. The Labour Party opposes Scottish independence and supports maintaining the nuclear deterrent for national security. Despite challenges, the Union provides a stronger economic base and international influence. The SNP's focus on a referendum is misguided when people are suffering from post-pandemic issues such as poverty and health service shortages.

Asserted his pride in the Union, highlighting economic ties and cooperation between regions such as hydrogen production hubs, steel manufacturing, and petrochemical industries. He criticised the Scottish National Party (SNP), suggesting they are not genuinely seeking independence but rather want to disrupt the UK unity for political gain, ignoring public sentiment against separation.

Noted that the next Back-Bench contribution would be from David Linden, without providing any substantive argument or position of his own.

Challenged the government’s focus on Scottish independence as a distraction, pointing out multiple issues including mismanagement during the pandemic, financial cronyism, inadequate social support policies, Brexit fallout, and undemocratic practices. He argued that these issues are why many in Scotland might be reconsidering their stance towards independence.

He criticised the Conservatives' approach to Scottish independence, noting that they are trying to prevent a referendum against public will. He pointed out that their efforts to stop a referendum through undemocratic means only serve to increase support for independence. Wishart also highlighted the contrast between Labour's stance and other parties, noting inconsistency within Conservative Unionism.

Sheppard sought clarification on whether the people of Scotland have the right to make their own constitutional choices. He highlighted that while the SNP was focused on independence, other issues such as connectivity and economic recovery were also important.

Brown sought an opportunity for further discussion but did not provide detailed contributions in the given text.

Suggests moving on to the next debate without confirming individual voting details from a previous vote.