Alyn Smith
MP for Stirling
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
One of the few good things to come out of Wednesday's stramash last week was that the House united around a call for an immediate ceasefire. Now, I welcome that—that is progress. The Prime Minister was just given an opportunity by my hon. Friend the Member for Aberdeen South (Stephen Flynn) to commit to the UK's representatives in the United Nations and elsewhere articulating that position of this House. If they are not going to do that, what will he say to those of us who say this place really is just a sick pantomime?
Context
The House recently united around a call for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict, but there is concern about what UK representatives at the UN will do to advocate this position.
Rishi Sunak
As I outlined previously, it is not right to call for an immediate ceasefire that would collapse instantly into more fighting and not do anything to get more aid into Gaza to alleviate the suffering that people are experiencing, or to make sure that we can safely remove hostages, including British hostages.
Assessment
Did not commit to having UK's representatives articulate House's call for an immediate ceasefire
Discussed Conditions For A Humanitarian Ceasefire Instead Of Committing To Immediate Ceasefire
Session: PMQs
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Stirling's Forthside site has a promising potential development but is stuck due to disputes about land decontamination costs. I will work with anyone to get it unblocked and moving forward. Will the Prime Minister meet me and Stirling Council representatives to resolve this issue?
Context
The Forthside development on former MoD land has stalled due to a dispute over decontamination costs.
Rishi Sunak
We have invested in Stirling previously to unlock investment and drive growth. I will ensure that the hon. Gentleman gets a meeting with the relevant Minister to make progress.
Session: PMQs
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I add my congratulations on the Prime Minister's appointment; we might not agree on everything, but I think we can all agree that a more diverse politics can only be to the good. We on the Scottish National party Benches believe that Scotland's best future is independence in Europe. If the Prime Minister is to maintain any credibility in the eyes of the people of Scotland, how long does he think he can deny Scotland's democracy?
Context
The SNP believes Scotland's best future is independence in Europe, as supported by recent opinion polls. The Prime Minister needs to maintain credibility with the Scottish public.
Rishi Sunak
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his kind words. He talked about respect, and I gently urge him to respect the result of the referendum that we had on this topic. While we will disagree on that issue, I remain committed to working constructively in partnership with the Scottish Government to deliver for the people of Scotland.
Assessment
Specific commitment or timeframe regarding Scotland's independence
Remain Committed
Working Constructively
Session: PMQs
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Anthony Jones, a ferociously bright student at Stirling University, was looking to do a master's degree in Amsterdam. Pre- Brexit, the course fees were £2,168. Post Brexit, the fees are £14,600. The Turing scheme will not touch the sides of what is necessary. Would the Prime Minister like to apologise to Anthony and countless hundreds of thousands of students like him for limiting their life horizons against their will?
Context
Anthony Jones, a student at Stirling University, faced a significant increase in master's degree course fees after Brexit. Pre-Brexit fees were £2,168, while post-Brexit they are £14,600.
Boris Johnson
No, because I think that the Turing scheme is fairer and will enable students on lower incomes to have access to great courses around the world. I believe it is a highly beneficial reform of the way we do this, and it is truly global in its ambitions.
Assessment
Apologizing for increased fees and limitations
Defended Turing Scheme
Session: PMQs
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I am bemused by that answer. I will never shake my view that Brexit was an act of gross harm against the next generation, particularly in Scotland, where we rejected it. But we are where we are, and the EU has offered the UK a comprehensive youth mobility scheme up to the age of 30 for four years. That strikes me as a fantastic deal. Scotland wants to do it, so why is the Minister so keen to hold Scotland back? But my actual question is: is he as delighted as I think he must be that the Labour party completely agrees with him?
Context
The EU offered a comprehensive youth mobility scheme up to the age of 30 for four years, which Scotland wants to participate in. The questioner criticises Brexit and its impact on future opportunities.
John Lamont
The hon. Member and the SNP continue to obsess about Brexit and the decision of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union. This Government are absolutely committed to offering young people opportunities to travel around the world during their education, as demonstrated through our association with the Horizon scheme and through the Government's Turing scheme.
Session: Youth Mobility European Commission Scheme
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The only way to stop boats at sea and illegal migration is through structured co-operation with our neighbours and internationally. I welcome the signing on 23 February of the agreement between the UK and EU's Frontex border protection service, but is it properly funded and what mechanisms are in place to review that funding as it evolves? Surely the Minister must agree with me that the best way to tackle illegal migration is to fund safe and legal routes properly. What progress is he making on a comprehensive deal to that end with our EU friends, including Ireland?
Context
The MP welcomes an agreement between the UK and Frontex and inquires about its funding.
Andrew Mitchell
We need to tackle this issue, as I think the hon. Gentleman is implying, on a series of different fronts. We are working upstream, as the deal with Vietnam demonstrates. Our Prime Minister has substantially repaired the relationship with France. The Calais Group has met the UK-France customs partnership. We work closely with Frontex. There are far more officials now in Britain dealing with these cases. As the Prime Minister has made clear, once this matter has been resolved, he is going to look at bringing in safe and legal routes from elsewhere.
Session: Illegal Migration International Co-operation
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UNRWA is best positioned to distribute aid. Given recent funding suspensions, what further reassurance does the UK need to ensure timely funding?
Context
The discussion is about the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the need to fund UNRWA, which disburse aid.
Andrew Mitchell
I do not agree with the hon. Gentleman's last point. It is true that Canada, Sweden, Spain and the EU, with conditions, expect to be able to resume funding, but as I mentioned earlier, America, Germany, Australia, Italy, Finland, the Netherlands and Switzerland take the same view as us. To the substantive points he makes, we are in discussions with the leader of UNRWA, Mr Lazzarini, and we are awaiting the report from the former French Foreign Minister and the report from the UN. We hope that as a result of those reports, sufficient change will be secured, so that we can continue to fund UNRWA, but the hon. Gentleman should be in no doubt that we have fully funded UNRWA into the next financial year.
Session: Gaza Sustainable Ceasefire
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I am grateful for the answer, but one thing my constituents do not understand is electricity standing charges. According to Ofgem's figures, they have rocketed by 138% from £90.84 in 2021-22 to £216.23 in 2023-24. Does the Secretary of State agree that it is high time the UK Government stepped in?
Context
The MP highlights the significant increase in electricity standing charges for constituents in Stirling, citing Ofgem figures.
Claire Coutinho
Ofgem regulates standing charges and has issued a call for evidence. About 40,000 people have given input, and we look forward to seeing the results. However, if he was really worried about the cost of living for families in the country, the SNP would not have taken taxes in Scotland to the highest level in the UK.
Session: Energy Costs
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I appreciate that the UK Government's attitude to PESCO is to take each project on a case-by-case basis, but may I suggest that publishing criteria for that case-by-case assessment would be useful? It is obvious to the dogs in the street that PESCO will evolve at light-speed, and the UK risks missing out on a lot of important co-operation that could be beneficial. Will the Minister publish that guidance?
Context
Concerns over the evolving nature of PESCO and the potential benefits for UK involvement, with a suggestion to publish criteria for assessing each opportunity on its merits.
James Heappey
I note the hon. Gentleman's suggestion, and I fear that my answer will give him encouragement to table the 68 questions, because it is right that we consider each opportunity in PESCO on its merits. PESCO is a vehicle for increasing military mobility around the continent. Non-EU NATO partners support that fully, and the UK is among them, but industrial or technological co-operation will not always be in the UK's interest, or in the interest of UK industry, so it is right that we consider these things case by case.
Session: EU Permanent Structured Co-operation Projects
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What assessment has his Department made of the potential merits of participating in further EU permanent structured co-operation projects?
Context
The question arises from the UK's need to finalise its entry into the military mobility project under PESCO and concerns about potential benefits and constraints of further involvement in other PESCO projects.
James Heappey
The Department's priority is to finalise entry into the permanent structured co-operation military mobility project before considering involvement in other projects. However, we assess that the EU's standard “third country” terms for PESCO projects involving procurement or capability development will continue to impose significant constraint on UK involvement.
Session: EU Permanent Structured Co-operation Projects
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Can the Minister assure that there will be no Ukraine fatigue in continuing supportive efforts?
Context
IMF estimates for Ukrainian aid needs and the special European Council meeting on Thursday.
Leo Docherty
No fatigue; exceeded last year's lethal aid commitment and contributing more than £12 billion since 2022.
Session: Ukraine
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I am afraid that I do not share the Minister's Panglossian view of this issue. Does he share my concern about recently published figures that show that, in the years 2019 to 2021, Scottish exports to the EU fell from £16.95 billion to £14.97 billion? Whatever the UK Government are doing, it is not working, so the Scottish Government have a pressing need to promote ourselves overseas for the sake of our economy and our society. Does the Minister agree that now is the time to increase that overseas promotion, not cut it back due to domestic wrangles?
Context
The MP references recent figures showing a decline in Scottish exports to the EU from £16.95 billion to £14.97 billion between 2019-2021, indicating concern about the effectiveness of current efforts.
John Lamont
Given the hon. Member's interest in this area, perhaps he could speak with his SNP colleagues in the Scottish Parliament. They are cutting funding to South of Scotland Enterprise, which will mean less support for businesses in the south of Scotland to grow, innovate and export. Perhaps he could tell the First Minister of Scotland that promoting Scotland overseas begins with supporting businesses at home in Scotland.
Session: Promoting Scotland Overseas
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What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on promoting Scotland overseas.
Context
No specific event or statistic mentioned, but the question relates to discussions within the Cabinet on promoting Scotland overseas.
John Lamont
The UK Government work tirelessly to promote Scottish interests around the world through our extensive diplomatic network, forging business links and generating trade and investment. Our response to the Scottish Affairs Committee's recent inquiry on Scotland's international position highlights the extensive efforts we undertake to achieve this.
Session: Promoting Scotland Overseas
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Has any evidence come to light that gives concern about the commission of war crimes? Can the Minister assure us that any such evidence that comes to light will be sent over to the International Criminal Court in response to its call for evidence?
Context
Concern about potential war crimes and cooperation with the ICC.
Andrew Mitchell
Many organisations are seeking to identify what is happening on the ground, and any such evidence will be put before relevant authorities including courts like the ICC if available.
Session: Violence in the West Bank
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Has any evidence come to light that gives concern about the commission of war crimes in the west bank or in Gaza?
Context
UK providing logistical and surveillance support to help recover hostages in Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
Britain is providing overflight support for surveillance and hostage recovery, helping identify issues on the ground to ensure abidance with international humanitarian law.
Session: Violence in the West Bank
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The OSCE is seen as a valuable platform to cohere efforts towards stability in the western Balkans. Does the Minister agree that more resources are needed for the OSCE?
Context
There is a desire for a stable western Balkans and recognition of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe's role.
Leo Docherty
I do agree and I think it is a hugely valuable platform. We must ensure that efforts to deliver good impact from the OSCE are not derailed by Putin's machinations.
Session: Western Balkans Stability
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Is it not time for a comprehensive security treaty between the UK and the EU to regulate these discussions?
Context
The MP highlighted the evolving EU defence capacity due to Ukraine events and questioned if a comprehensive security treaty between the UK and EU is necessary.
James Cleverly
We maintain strong bilateral relations with EU member states and have corporate-level relationships. However, NATO remains the cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic defence. We aim to strengthen it further at Vilnius.
Session: NATO Unity
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If the UK does not want to join the North Seas Energy Cooperation forum, could they stop holding Scotland back from participating in this important international collaboration?
Context
The North Seas Energy Cooperation Forum is a gathering of coastal states around the North Sea, and the UK has been hesitant to join despite it being seen as a world-leading platform for renewable energy cooperation.
Alister Jack
The UK Government promotes Scotland's food, drink industry, renewables and sales through trade deals. It suggests SNP should support these efforts rather than opposing them.
Session: Promoting Scotland Overseas
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With cross-party unity and willingness from Brussels, when will the UK Government match this ambition to ensure that thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of pounds are guaranteed for our universities?
Context
There is cross-party unity in the House regarding the reintegration of UK's universities into the Horizon Europe programme.
Leo Docherty
We are willing, negotiating in good faith, and Scotland's scientific future will be part of that, reminding why Scotland is better within the Union.
Session: Horizon Europe
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Will my hon. Friend pay tribute to the work done by the private sector, and in particular to Busy Bees, which was founded in Lichfield 40 years ago this year and operates over 400 nurseries in multiple countries?
Context
Recognition of the work done by private sector childcare providers like Busy Bees, founded in Lichfield.
Claire Coutinho
My hon. Friend is testament to the fact that good things come out of Lichfield. I have met Busy Bees and it does impressive work on staff retention and training programmes. I wish it well in the years to come.
Session: Early Years Support for Families
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Surely there is an opportunity for the UK to fold itself back into these frameworks, not reinvent the wheel, and get more girls into education. The hon. Gentleman is right: we take a wholly unideological approach to educating girls and women. We go with what is most effective—with what works—and if the EU produces programmes that are good value for taxpayers' money, we will of course look at them.
Context
The EU has established numerous cooperation agreements to support girls' education, and there is an opportunity for the UK to reintegrate into these frameworks.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Gentleman is right: we take a wholly unideological approach to educating girls and women. We go with what is most effective—with what works—and if the EU produces programmes that are good value for taxpayers' money, we will of course look at them.
Session: Girls’ Access to Education
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Do Ministers accept that 70% of respondents in Stirling feel the UK Government does not understand the impact of the cost of living crisis?
Context
The question highlights a lack of understanding from the UK Government regarding the impact of cost-of-living crisis on people in Scotland, based on polling data.
Tom Pursglove
Certainly not, and I am delighted that I actually have a far more constructive working relationship with the Scottish Minister responsible for these issues than the question from the hon. Member suggests.
Session: Cost of Living Support for Disabled People
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Polling has found that 46.4% of workers said that they would learn a new skill if it were free for them to do so, but colleges and educational institutions do not have the funding to put on the courses required. What discussions has the Minister had with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade about the economic benefit of upskilling the workforce? What plans do the Government have to do that?
Context
The MP highlighted that colleges and educational institutions do not have sufficient funding to provide courses.
Robert Halfon
We are upskilling the workforce all the time—that is behind the Government's approach. We are investing in resources, as I mentioned, and £3.8 billion extra is being spent on skills during this Parliament. We are investing in recruitment, FE resources and bursaries for FE college tutors in key subjects, such as STEM.
Session: Adult Upskilling
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Does the Minister acknowledge the Scottish Government's 2019 Arctic strategy and their willingness to work with the UK?
Context
The MP is urging the UK to recognize Scotland's role in addressing Arctic issues.
David Rutley
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his points, of which we will take note. The Foreign Secretary is taking an active interest in the subject.
Session: The Arctic
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On the trade and co-operation agreement, UK in a Changing Europe highlighted various deadlines for sectors needing further clarity. With financial services passporting ending on 31 December this year, how is progress going to ensure the industry has clarity?
Context
The MP is concerned about the clarity of future financial services passporting arrangements, noting a deadline for December 2023 when current arrangements will end. He mentions UK in a Changing Europe's report highlighting deadlines for further sectoral clarity.
James Cleverly
The Secretary of State aims to provide clarity and maintain competitiveness for all UK industries, including financial services. He mentions that Scotland's potential exit from the UK would require closer analysis regarding its fiscal situation if it were to join the EU.
Session: UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement
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Brexit has demonstrably been a disaster for the Scottish fisheries sector. The catchers and the processors are having a dreadful time, but even these trading arrangements are due to end in 2026 under the trade and co-operation agreement. What thought has the Secretary of State given to the future trading arrangements after 2026, or will it be just another betrayal?
Context
Brexit has been a disaster for the Scottish fisheries sector, with trade barriers worsening and future trading arrangements ending in 2026.
Alister Jack
We have taken control of our waters. We have left the hated common fisheries policy. We have seen our quota increase by 30,000 tonnes this year in negotiations. We are going to take full control of our waters at the end of the five-year period, and with the other things we are putting in place to support industry, we will increase the processing business, as well.
Session: Impact of Leaving the EU
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Surely he must recognise that it is the biggest block to progress in these talks, and that now is the time to scrap it?
Context
Concerns about the Northern Ireland protocol bill being a block to progress, despite polls showing support for EU membership.
James Cleverly
I am the one who has been in the conversations with the EU. I know that it does not particularly like the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, but, nevertheless, the conversations that I have had with my direct interlocuters and that our officials have been having with their opposite numbers in the EU system have been progressing. As I have said, there are still a number of serious issues that need to be resolved, but we are working in good faith. The Bill exists for a reason and it is important that it is there.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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What steps are being taken to support flood relief efforts in Nigeria?
Context
Nigeria is experiencing severe flooding, affecting over a million people with more than 200,000 homes destroyed and 600 deaths reported.
Andrew Mitchell
The UK provides support through the multi-donor Start fund, allocating £580,000 so far this rainy season to support 26,288 people. We will continue helping Nigeria towards long-term climate change adaptation and resilience.
Session: Nigeria Flood Relief
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I find myself in unexpected agreement with the right hon. Member for East Antrim: I do believe that the protocol is being cynically abused. However, I do not think it is being abused by the EU but rather by the future Prime Minister. The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill is wrong in international law and most MLAs support the protocol. It has put backs up across the EU and there are ways to reform the protocol within it. Will the Minister please pass on my view that the bill makes sense only as a vehicle for proving toughness towards Europe?
Context
The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill is being debated, with concerns about its legality and impact on relations between the UK and EU.
Graham Stuart
I am new to this but have looked at the protocol and it is not working. There are three main priorities: protecting the single market, ensuring peace in Northern Ireland through community consent as required by the protocol, and preventing unnecessary blockages for east-west trade. I suggest reading the protocol rather than insisting on its imposition.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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Surely now is the time to reverse all that talk and actually support civil servants doing tough jobs in tough times?
Context
There is concern about politically motivated appointments at home, job losses across the civil service, and a cut to the 0.7% commitment on aid.
James Cleverly
My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and my ministerial colleagues liaise regularly with civil servants, who are focused, motivated, and determined to help deliver UK Government priorities such as supporting Ukraine and dealing with food shortages caused by Putin.
Session: Ukraine British Diplomatic Support
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I am puzzled by the idea that the Government need to invoke necessity when there are already other ways of fixing this situation through negotiations with the EU. Most people in the Northern Ireland Assembly support the protocol, and I argue that bringing forward an illegal Bill undermines trust at a critical time when it is fundamental to resolving matters.
Context
The EU has negotiated changes to refine the Northern Ireland Protocol, and there are dispute resolution mechanisms within it. The MP notes that most people in the Northern Ireland Assembly support the protocol.
Elizabeth Truss
We have been very open to negotiations for the past 18 months, but the EU has refused to change the protocol. The customs procedures in place are preventing trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, leading to trade diversion towards north-south trade. This undermines the Belfast/Good Friday agreement. It is necessary for the UK Government to act by changing the negotiating mandate so that we can have a real negotiation.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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We think this is a disastrous policy that will not do anything about small boats in the channel, but let us put that to one side. The Minister and the Foreign Secretary must be aware of the grave misgivings among Foreign Office officials about this policy. Can they name a single non-governmental organisation that is in favour of it? Are they just glossing over the human rights concerns about the Rwandan Government? An international development partnership with Rwanda is one thing, but this is entirely different.
Context
The MP is concerned about the government's policy regarding small boats in the channel and the misgivings among Foreign Office officials. He mentions the lack of support from NGOs for this policy.
Vicky Ford
We are absolutely not glossing over our concerns about rights when it comes to, for example, space for political opposition, civil rights and media freedom. Indeed, I met the permanent secretary of the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation in London earlier this year and made those points to her. However, to break the people trafficking model that is causing lives to be put at risk in our channel, things need to be done; doing nothing is not an option.
Session: Rwanda Human Rights
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The hon. Member expresses concern about the lack of progress and ambition in the UK's sanctions regime, urging the Foreign Secretary to work closely with the EU for more comprehensive sanctions.
Context
There is frustration within the SNP over a lack of progress on the UK's sanctions regime compared to EU efforts.
Elizabeth Truss
The hon. Member is incorrect as the UK has led on sanctions such as targeting £364 billion-worth of assets compared to the EU's £124 billion, banning ships from British ports and closing airspace to Russian planes.
Session: Russia Sanctions
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The UK energy market is demonstrably broken. I am concerned about rural energy prices and disparities between urban and rural areas. Will the Minister support my call for an investigation into uncompetitive energy practices?
Context
The UK energy market is facing issues, especially concerning price disparities between urban and rural regions. The questioner seeks an investigation into these practices.
Iain Stewart
First, let me welcome the city of culture bid by the hon. Gentleman's home city. I am always happy to visit Stirling—in fact, I believe that I am coming up to visit in the next couple of weeks. I am very happy to meet him to discuss the measures to which he refers, but energy prices are rising globally due to easing coronavirus restrictions and other geopolitical factors.
Session: Rise in the Cost of Living
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What discussions have you had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential effect of the rise in the cost of living on people in Scotland?
Context
Discussions are ongoing about how rising costs affect people in Scotland. The questioner is seeking details on cabinet discussions.
Iain Stewart
This Government have consistently said that the best way to support people's living standards is through good work, better skills and higher wages. Our plan for jobs is working, the economy is growing and unemployment is low. The national living wage, the universal credit taper and allowance changes are putting more money in people's pockets.
Session: Rise in the Cost of Living
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Mr Speaker, happy Burns night to you and to colleagues later on. “O wad some Pow'r the giftie gie us To see oursels as ithers see us” would be a useful thing for those on the Treasury Bench to remember at the moment. The best contribution that we, however we define ourselves, can make is to help other countries with resilience against disinformation, and I would praise to the rafters the Resist toolkit run out of the Cabinet Office. We already have a set of measures that we can use to assist other countries to combat disinformation. Could the Minister assure us that this will be beefed up, better financed and rolled out internationally? It is a very good domestic toolkit, but we could do a lot more to it, because plenty of other places really need it.
Context
The Resist toolkit combats disinformation and could be beneficial to other countries.
Vicky Ford
The integrated review made it very clear that the UK will be a responsible and democratic cyber-power. We intend to use our global network to strengthen the case for open, peaceful and secure digital space, pushing back against those who misuse technology or spread disinformation to undermine democracy.
Session: Supporting Democracy
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Have the UK Government seen the evidence, and will they commit to helping to keep that civil space open?
Context
NGOs being shut down in Israel with no evidence, UK Minister seemingly uninvolved.
Amanda Milling
Civil society is important. We continue our engagement with organisations on human rights issues.
Session: Israeli-Palestinian Peace Fund and Designation of Organisations
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I also welcome the Foreign Secretary to her place. Like many other Members, I look forward to seeing many more glossy pictures of her in exciting places around the world doing her job looking fabulous. Perhaps she should sign them for Members keen to have more images of her.
Context
The question arises from the anticipation of seeing the Foreign Secretary in various international settings as part of her role. The MP suggests that Members look forward to receiving images.
James Cleverly
We will get a signed copy for you.
Session: Economic and Security Ties with Allies
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In a constructive spirit, I urge an FCDO statement to ensure cooperation between trade and foreign policy areas so future deals can raise standards in vital areas like human rights. Will we see such a statement?
Context
Concerns that the Department for International Trade's statement lacks mention of human rights, slave labour or workers' rights.
James Cleverly
The UK's commitment to human rights is a foundation of its foreign policy, and trade agreements will include exporting our principles. However, specific details about the SNP's stance or an FCDO statement were not provided, only rhetorical responses.
Session: Human Rights Trade Deals
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Can he tell us why the UK's accession to the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership is incompatible with reaching an agreement with Europe on food standards? From which current food standards do the Government wish to diverge?
Context
Lord Frost rejected the EU's offer of a veterinary agreement, citing ambition for CPTPP membership. The questioner inquires about the compatibility of UK's CPTPP bid with reaching an agreement on food standards with Europe.
Greg Hands
The UK proposed an equivalence agreement on sanitary and phytosanitary rules in negotiations, but the EU refused. The UK is willing to discuss SPS rules with Brussels while maintaining regulatory autonomy. The Government does not wish to diverge from food standards but seeks agreements respecting regulatory independence.
Session: UK Exports to the EU
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What recent assessment has she made of trends in UK exports to the EU? She noted that despite monthly figures showing an increase to £14 billion in May 2021, ONS data shows a significant drop of 27% in quarter 1 compared to pre-Brexit levels. She referenced Make UK reports stating 96% of members face problems with new trading regime.
Context
Monthly figures show UK goods exports to the EU were £14 billion in May 2021, up by 8% from the previous month. However, ONS data shows a significant drop of 27% in quarter 1 compared to pre-Brexit levels.
Greg Hands
The latest monthly figures for goods exports show £14 billion in May 2021, up by 8% from April. This is higher than the monthly average for both 2020 and pre-pandemic levels. The first quarter data, however, shows a dip due to border closures during January when the alpha variant was prevalent.
Session: UK Exports to the EU
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I listened with great interest to the Minister's answer, and North Korea really should be higher up our agenda, because there is a looming humanitarian disaster coming in that country. The corn harvest is failing and food prices are now up 30-odd per cent., the border remains closed with China, so imports are not able to alleviate that, and we are also seeing electricity being diverted away from the provinces to Pyongyang—all the actions of a deeply unstable regime, but jeopardising the interests of 25 million people. We have heard great tell about the Indo-Pacific tilt and integrated foreign policy and development, but it really would be a lot more credible if we heard less about aircraft carriers and more about preparations for a pending humanitarian disaster.
Context
The MP highlighted the impending humanitarian disaster in North Korea, citing failed corn harvests and rising food prices.
Nigel Adams
The hon. Member is again right to raise this issue. We are extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in North Korea. He will be aware that our ambassador to North Korea maintains diplomatic relations from London. He routinely discusses issues of concern. We will seek to re-establish our presence in Pyongyang as soon as the border reopens. The Foreign Secretary and other G7 Foreign and Development Ministers made clear on 5 May our deep concern for the welfare of vulnerable communities, particularly in terms of access to adequate water, nutrition and medical facilities. This humanitarian assistance should be delivered consistent with UN Security Council resolutions and humanitarian principles.
Session: North Korea
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What discussions has the Foreign Secretary had with the EU and AU regarding a durable peace in Tigray?
Context
Significant donor to the region, need for diplomatic dialogue and regional partners' involvement.
Dominic Raab
I spoke to President Kenyatta, Prime Minister Hamdok, UN, and AU about the situation. We need a widespread caucus of like-minded countries pushing for a political solution including elections across Ethiopia and in Tigray.
Session: Ethiopia Human Rights
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Would the Minister like to apologise to the tens of thousands of people across rural Scotland who are in daily dread and fear of what their economic future holds?
Context
The MP highlighted significant decreases in various export categories for rural Scotland since the end of the transition period and asked if the Minister would apologize to affected people.
Greg Hands
I thank the hon. Member for that follow-up question, and I wonder if, to coin a phrase, he has perhaps taken his eye off the ball, because actually there was a bounce back in trade in February. I will give him an independent view from the Office for National Statistics, which on the trade data says: 'Exports of food and live animals to the EU increased...in February 2021, after being significantly impacted in January... Exports of fish and shellfish to the EU also saw an uptick in February 2021 as exporters adjust to new regulations following the end of the transition period. The disruptions to food exports in January 2021 appear to have largely been overcome and may have only had short-term impacts on trade.' That is from the Office for National Statistics, which he may seek to consult.
Session: UK Exports Germany, Italy and Ireland
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Access to Broadband Services — [Sir Christopher Chope in the Chair]
06 September 2023
Responding: John Whittingdale
Main Concerns
['I am deeply concerned for the people I represent who are being left behind by government policy, both in Scotland and the UK. In St Ninians in Stirling, I have fantastic full-fibre broadband, but many other areas face significant issues with access to broadband services. Only 48.7% of premises in Stirling currently have gigabit availability despite some of the best broadband existing there. This disparity highlights that many rural and remote areas are still struggling to gain adequate internet connectivity.']
Specific Asks
['I want us to work together to target the areas that need it most, focusing on faster activity and a better focus on rural areas. I suggest considering alternative means of delivery such as satellite and 4G broadband, which could provide immediate solutions for those currently lacking full-fibre connectivity.']
International Students: Contribution to the UK
02 November 2022
Responding: Robert Halfon
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the significant contribution that international students make to Scotland and the UK, particularly in terms of enriching academic environments and contributing economically. He highlights statistics such as 24.1% of university enrolments in Scotland coming from outside the UK in 2020-21, with Stirling University hosting 5,000 international students (30% of its student population). The MP also expresses worries about policies that could undermine this progress.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Government to assess the economic cost of restricting international students and their dependants. He seeks reassurance on retaining the graduate visa route established in 2021, maintaining the successful international strategy including the target to host 600,000 international students by 2030, and explores opportunities for closer EU relations.']
Pension Credit Uptake And International Aid Cuts
26 October 2022
Responding: Anne McLaughlin
Main Concerns
['The speaker is concerned about the interconnectedness of food security, climate change, and international development policy. He mentions that the UK imports 46% of its food and highlights the need for a coherent approach to address these issues. The speaker also cites statistics from the ONE campaign indicating that due to cuts in official development assistance, millions of children, girls, women have lost out on nutritional support, education, and humanitarian aid. The hon. Member for Glasgow North East is concerned about the low uptake of pension credit, which stands at around 60%. She mentions that £7.7 million goes unclaimed in her constituency and £2.2 billion goes unclaimed across the UK annually. Among reasons why people do not apply are stigma, complexity of the application process, and lack of awareness. The hon. Member cites research showing that failing to deliver pension credit to every eligible person costs the NHS and social care an estimated £4 billion a year.']
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the Government to reinstate the 0.7% international aid commitment as outlined in the 2019 Conservative party manifesto. He also recommends that the government consider the National Farmers Union of Scotland's recommendations for domestic food security and the International Development Committee's report on 'Food insecurity'. The lead MP asks for the Government to extend the deadline for eligibility for the cost-of-living payment from 19 August 2022 until 31 March 2023. She also requests clarity on the exact date in December when those who successfully apply will receive half of the £650 payment."]
Death of Alexei Navalny
19 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Environment Bill - Lords amendment 15D and Lords amendment 42D
21 June 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the House disagrees with Lords amendments 15D and 42D. Stresses that this is not a rejection out of hand, but rather an acknowledgment that these amendments would delay necessary post-Brexi...
Cost of Living Committee
14 June 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Scottish National Party highlights the impact of rising energy, food, and housing costs exacerbated by years of austerity measures and benefit cuts. The party criticises the Conservative governmen...
Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill - Clause 15, Lords amendment 42B; Amendment 15B
12 June 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the House disagrees with Lords amendment 15B, arguing against conditions on powers to reduce environmental protections and conflict with international agreements. He emphasises the need for...
European Union (Withdrawal) Bill - Lords amendment 6, Lords amendments 1, 15, 16, and other related amendments
24 May 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Michael Tomlinson moves that the House disagrees with Lords amendment 6, which seeks to reinstate the principle of non-regression in environmental and food standards. He emphasises the need for re...
Backbench Business
11 May 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill
11 May 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Sudan
17 April 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Vladimir Kara-Murza
17 April 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Russian Assets: Seizure
14 March 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The House calls on the Government to lay before Parliament proposals for the seizure of Russian state assets with the purpose of using such assets to provide support for Ukraine, including rectifying ...
4
PMQs Asked
51
Ministerial Questions Asked
98
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+280% above average
This MP:
51
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1917% above average
This MP:
98
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Alyn Smith's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.