Kenny MacAskill
MP for East Lothian
Alba
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
If Grangemouth refinery closes, Scotland will be the only major oil-producing nation without a refinery capacity. At a time of energy insecurity, is it not economic madness to allow a profitable plant to close, and is it not environmental madness to tranship oil for refining and distribution across the increasingly dangerous high seas? Given the billions that the Prime Minister has received and will continue to receive from North sea oil, will he ensure that Scotland retains a refinery capacity for Scotland's oil?
Context
Scotland's only major oil-producing nation without a refinery capacity if Grangemouth closes, raising concerns about energy security.
Rishi Sunak
The future of Grangemouth refinery is obviously a commercial decision for its owners, but I am told that the site will remain operating as a refinery until at least May 2025. In the meantime, the UK and Scottish Governments are working together to seek assurances from Grangemouth about how it is supporting employees. We remain confident in our fuel supply. On energy security, which the hon. Gentleman mentioned, this Government are unambiguously backing the North sea oil and gas sector because that is how we support energy security in this country, attract investment and create jobs, particularly in Scotland.
Assessment
The questioner asked for a specific commitment to ensure refinery capacity, but this was not directly addressed. Instead, the Prime Minister focused on broader points about future investments and job creation.
Did Not Address Specific Commitment
Session: PMQs
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Scottish Ambulance Service statistics show a more than 30% increase in hypothermic call-outs across Scotland last winter, including a staggering 84% increase in the north in December. Although fuel prices have fallen slightly, food and other costs have risen exponentially. To end the perversity of energy-rich Scotland seeing a third of Scots freezing in fuel poverty, when will the Government bring in a social tariff to ensure that the poor and vulnerable can get through this winter without calling out the ambulance service because they are freezing?
Context
Scottish Ambulance Service statistics show a more than 30% increase in hypothermic call-outs across Scotland last winter, including an 84% increase in the north.
Oliver Dowden
As my right hon. Friend the Chancellor set out in his autumn statement, we are exploring the best approach to consumer protection from April 2024 as part of wider retail market reforms. I reiterate that we paid half of energy bills in Scotland last winter, thanks to the strength of our Union.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not address bringing in a social tariff but mentioned exploring consumer protection measures.
Session: PMQs
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There is a stark correlation between being off the gas grid and having the highest rates of fuel poverty, particularly worse in Scotland near national gas reserves but also in urban multi-storey flats without natural gas access. People rely on expensive heating oil or all-electric systems. Will the Prime Minister end this by ensuring fuels are regulated and households can get alternative fuel payments?
Context
The MP noted high rates of fuel poverty in Scotland's regions near the North Sea gas reserves and in urban deprived areas. Many residents are dependent on unregulated fuels or inefficient electrical systems.
Rishi Sunak
The Government supports people with energy bills through a £200 alternative fuels support payment, designed based on electricity meters rather than gas. This programme aims to help everyone in need.
Assessment
Specific commitment or timeline for regulating all fuels was not addressed
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister is well aware of the injustice of prepayment meters. Why has he allowed hundreds of thousands to be forced into penury when winter prices are rocketing? He requires only to instruct Ofgem or through a Minister, to ensure equalisation of tariffs between debit and credit, and provide a fund for those in debt due to Government failures.
Context
Injustice of prepayment meters, higher tariffs, social charges, and 8.4 million people facing fuel poverty in April.
Rishi Sunak
I think the hon. Gentleman's proposal would also increase Bills for many families, so I am not sure it is the right approach. We are providing around £900 of specific support for all families' energy bills this winter and there is further targeted support for those who are most vulnerable. We are consulting on the best thing to do going forward, including options such as a social tariff.
Assessment
Specific ask about ending injustice of poor paying more was not directly addressed with concrete measures or timeline
I Am Not Sure It Is The Right Approach
Session: PMQs
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Belgium provides a social tariff for the poorest. Is it time to provide a similar social tariff and end injustice of prepayment meters?
Context
The poorest in the UK pay highest fuel costs through prepayment meters with higher standing charges and tariffs compared to Belgium's social tariff.
Boris Johnson
Currently helping 8 million households with £1,200 support, including £300 for pensioners and cold weather payments, plus £400 for every household in the country.
Assessment
Did not address social tariff or prepayment meters specifically.
Session: PMQs
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While Ofgem can cap rising gas and electricity bills, other fuels such as heating oil, liquefied petroleum gas and solid fuel remain unregulated. Many households in rural Scotland depend on such fuels. There are also areas awash with energy, both on and offshore, yet with huge and rising numbers of people in fuel poverty. Will the Prime Minister regulate and cap such fuels, to alleviate hardship and end the perversity of energy-rich Scotland but fuel-poor Scots?
Context
Many rural households rely on unregulated fuels such as heating oil, liquefied petroleum gas, and solid fuel which are causing hardship.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman is right that energy-rich Scotland and the hydrocarbons that we have in this country should be used to help the British people. We should not be needlessly reliant on oil and gas from Putin's Russia.
Assessment
The specific ask about regulating unregulated fuels was not directly addressed, instead focused on hydrocarbons
Right That Energy-Rich Scotland
Session: PMQs
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A new Lord Advocate has taken up position, but the structural flaws in the office remain. In no other legal jurisdiction in the UK, or indeed in the western world, is the Government's senior legal adviser simultaneously the country's chief prosecutor; yet the role is enshrined in the Scotland Act 1998. Will the Prime Minister commit to changes so that that historical anachronism can be changed and a separation of powers achieved?
Context
The role of the Lord Advocate in Scotland is under scrutiny due to structural flaws.
Boris Johnson
First, I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on the outstanding success of his party in the recent elections. I will study the anomaly that he raises and revert to him as soon as possible.
Assessment
Commitment to changes for separation of powers was not given
Congratulating The Hon. Gentleman On His Party'S Success
Session: PMQs
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He questions why high standards will be protected, a food standards commission established, and whether chlorinated chicken would enter the UK market post-Brexit.
Context
MacAskill raises concerns about reduced animal welfare and production standards, highlighting the Government's failure to enshrine protections in the Agriculture Bill.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson confirms protection of animal welfare standards, including banning sow treatment practices legal in EU and live animal shipments. He also notes plans for increased standards post-Brexit and criticizes SNP's position on rejoining the EU.
Session: PMQs
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Warm words are one thing; tangible support is quite another. If Grangemouth closes, Scotland faces the possibility—indeed, the probability—of being the only major oil producing nation without refinery capacity, yet €700 million has been found by the UK Government to support an Ineos plant in Antwerp while not a penny is available for Grangemouth. Is it to be a Brexit bonus for Belgian workers and a P45 for those Scots at the refinery?
Context
The question addresses the discrepancy between significant UK Government support for an Ineos plant in Belgium while no financial assistance is offered to maintain Grangemouth's operations, raising concerns about job losses and economic impact on Scotland.
Claire Coutinho
We are working with the Scottish Government and Petroineos to understand all possible options for the future of the refinery. I remind the hon Gentleman that the Conservatives are the only major party who are backing the North sea, the biddings it brings in each year and the hundreds of thousands of jobs that it supports, while a new report last week showed that Labour's plan could lose as many as 100,000 jobs in the next five years.
Session: Grangemouth Oil Refinery
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What recent discussions has she had with trade unions on the future of Grangemouth oil refinery beyond 2025?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the future viability and sustainability of the Grangemouth oil refinery, including its economic impact on local communities and industrial transition.
Claire Coutinho
My Department attended the Grangemouth industrial just transition leadership forum alongside Scotland Office Ministers and representatives of Unite the union on 28 March. We remain in close contact with the Scottish Government and the owner Petroineos. My hon Friend the Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero met Scottish Government counterparts and Petroineos management on 15 May and raised the importance of working with the unions.
Session: Grangemouth Oil Refinery
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If a person calls for an intifada or chants genocidal chants, they are supporting Hamas. People can also be inadvertent supporters through having an embargo on Israel while Iran continues to arm Hamas. Will the Minister confirm that UK Government have no interest in changing their policy on defence agreements with Israel?
Context
Concern over the potential for UK arms embargoes to inadvertently support Hamas by not targeting Iran's continued arming of Hamas.
Leo Docherty
Indeed, we are assured that our relationship with Israel allows us to make representations about protecting civilians and increasing humanitarian aid. We do this while being aware of the broader threat from Hamas and Iran.
Session: UK-Israel Military Co-operation Agreement
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The rector of Glasgow University, an eminent Palestinian surgeon, has detailed horrors faced by children needing surgery without morphine due to white phosphorus munitions use. Why are we in a military pact with forces carrying out such actions? If the Minister will not repudiate the pact entirely, will he ensure that the use of white phosphorus munitions is unacceptable?
Context
Concern over the UK's military pact with Israel and allegations of human rights abuses in Gaza.
Leo Docherty
Of course it is not acceptable. We see no evidence that white phosphorus has been used, we focus on our confidence in Israel as an important ally, and stress the importance of protecting civilians. Peace requires Hamas to lay down arms and release hostages.
Session: UK-Israel Military Co-operation Agreement
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In Scotland, the vacancy rate for registered nursing posts in the community is 8.5%, and for registered district nurses it is 6.6%—in England, the situation is actually worse in most parts. However, these posts are fundamental to care delivery and addressing bed blocking. With overall funding dictated by the block grant and Barnett consequentials, is it not time that the Department stood up for the NHS? When there is money for weapons abroad, why can we not provide care at home?
Context
The question arises from the high vacancy rates of registered nursing posts and district nurses in Scotland, which are worse than those in England. This affects care delivery and contributes to bed blocking issues.
Andrew Stephenson
We hear from Opposition Members who love nothing more than to crow and criticise as their health system declines around them, despite record funding from the UK Government. Scotland has, sadly, some of the worst health outcomes in the western world. Earlier this year, when the UK Government stepped in to offer support, the SNP Health Minister rejected the offer.
Session: Community and District Nurses Recruitment and Retention
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What steps she is taking to support the recruitment and retention of community and district nurses. As the situation is worse in England compared to Scotland, there's a concern about addressing bed blocking and improving care in communities.
Context
The question arises from the need to address the shortage of community and district nurses in healthcare.
Andrew Stephenson
In September 2023, we met our commitment to deliver 50,000 more nurses working in the NHS compared with September 2019. There are over 68,800 full-time equivalent community nurses across England as of January 2024, which is an increase from last year. The NHS long-term workforce plan aims to increase training places for district nurses by 150%, to nearly 1,800, and commits to improving retention in the NHS.
Session: Community and District Nurses Recruitment and Retention
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Can the Secretary of State provide a date for when HMS Albion will be at sea or admit that it has been mothballed?
Context
HMS Albion is twinned with Chester, raising concerns about the status of the ship.
Grant Shapps
HMS Albion was visited by me recently and has not been mothballed. The other ship, HMS Bulwark, will also continue in operation.
Session: Topical Questions
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With winter still on us and rising fuel bills, Ofgem warns that the level of domestic energy debt is approaching £3 billion. How can we expect people to pay back such high levels of arrears when they struggle with current bills? Shouldn't we consider a debt write-off scheme as proposed by National Energy Action?
Context
The level of domestic energy debt is nearing £3 billion, making it difficult for consumers to manage their arrears.
Gareth Davies
The Government work closely with Ofgem, and last year introduced measures to ensure prepayment meter users pay no more than standard meter customers. This follows the Energy Price Guarantee which paid 50% of household bills.
Session: Topical Questions
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The last remaining shipyard on the lower Clyde is at risk due to work configuration issues. Will the Minister ensure no impediments prevent a direct order from CalMac for seven small island ferries?
Context
Concerns regarding the future of Ferguson Marine, the last remaining shipyard on the lower Clyde, facing potential procurement obstacles.
Nusrat Ghani
I am more than happy to sit down with the hon Member to discuss furthering his case, but the decision sits with the Scottish Government.
Session: Topical Questions
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Keep Prisons Single Sex has disclosed that police forces are still failing to adequately record the sex of offenders at birth and sometimes record self-identification. This can have a considerable effect on criminal justice data. Will the Minister take any steps to ensure that the correct data is given, so that appropriate analysis can be given and we do not have skewed information?
Kemi Badenoch
That is something that my Department is working on. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that we need to ensure that data is accurate, that people understand what is being recorded and that this does not have an impact on how public services are delivered. If he has any further information that he would like to share, I would very much like to see if there are specific constituency circumstances we can look into.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is not just citizens of the United Kingdom but the Government of Cyprus who are being denied information as to what the US military may be flying from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus to Israel. Is that not something that they should know about, given the risks, and is it not something that we should know about, given the complicity?
Context
Cyprus citizens and government are denied information about US military flights from RAF Akrotiri to Israel, raising concerns.
Leo Docherty
When it comes to Cyprus we have been working closely with our allies attending to the need for security, which may pertain to the release of hostages, so I think this is entirely a good thing.
Session: Topical Questions
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Jobs for whom? We have seen the situation where UK seafarers working in the offshore wind sector are being laid off to be replaced by low-wage, exploited migrant labour. With the sector's growth and increasing need for long-term accommodation, there is a risk of exploitation for workers not just on supply ships but throughout the sector. Will the Minister work with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that the national minimum wage applies beyond the 12-mile territorial limit?
Context
The MP is concerned about UK seafarers being laid off and replaced by low-wage, exploited migrant labour in the offshore wind industry. The risk of exploitation extends to workers beyond the 12-mile territorial limit.
Graham Stuart
The hon. Gentleman's concerns about exploitation and ensuring good, well-paid jobs are shared by the Government. We will continue to work together to develop opportunities without exploitation onshore or offshore.
Session: Offshore Wind Sector
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We have seen the situation where UK seafarers working in the offshore wind sector are being laid off to be replaced by low-wage, exploited migrant labour. With the sector's growth and increasing need for long-term accommodation, there is a risk of exploitation for workers not just on supply ships but throughout the sector. Will the Minister work with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that the national minimum wage applies beyond the 12-mile territorial limit?
Context
The MP is concerned about UK seafarers being laid off and replaced by low-wage, exploited migrant labour in the offshore wind industry. The risk of exploitation extends to workers beyond the 12-mile territorial limit.
Graham Stuart
The hon. Gentleman's concerns about exploitation and ensuring good, well-paid jobs are shared by the Government. We will continue to work together to develop opportunities without exploitation onshore or offshore.
Session: Offshore Wind Sector
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It is not simply the decibel level of fireworks that is causing an issue; police officers in Scotland have been coming under attack, with fireworks used as weapons. The Scottish Parliament has control over the sale of fireworks but not their manufacture, as they are classified as explosives. Will the Minister guarantee that steps will be taken to tighten things up in order to reduce the use of these weapons? Failing that, will he simply devolve the powers so that the Scottish Parliament can act, as it has done on air weapons and drink-driving?
Context
Police officers in Scotland are facing attacks with fireworks, raising concerns about their regulation and manufacture.
Chris Philp
I thank the hon. Gentleman for that important point. The control of products is often a matter for the Department for Business and Trade, but since he has raised it at Home Office questions, I will happily take his point away and look into it carefully.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister ensure that we receive binding commitments on human rights, especially labour practices, and continue discussions with NGOs during trade talks?
Context
The question arises from ongoing trade talks with countries that have poor human rights records, particularly discussions with India.
Kevin Hollinrake
The UK will continue to show global leadership in encouraging all states to uphold international human rights obligations and to hold those who violate or abuse human rights to account. The UK has successfully included labour, environment and gender provisions in the free trade agreements that we have signed—with Australia and New Zealand, for example. Those both contained dedicated chapters on trade, gender equality, labour and the environment.
Session: Trade Negotiations Human Rights
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What recent discussions has the government had with NGOs and charities regarding the inclusion of human rights considerations in trade negotiations? As trade talks continue with many countries with deplorable human rights records, will the Minister ensure binding commitments on labour practices rather than just warm words?
Context
The question arises from ongoing trade talks with countries that have poor human rights records, particularly discussions with India.
Kevin Hollinrake
The Government are committed to universal human rights, the rule of law, free speech and fairness. Those values guide all aspects of our international policy, including our approach to trade. The UK will continue to show global leadership in encouraging all states to uphold international human rights obligations and to hold those who violate or abuse human rights to account. The UK has successfully included labour, environment and gender provisions in the free trade agreements that we have signed—with Australia and New Zealand, for example. Those both contained dedicated chapters on trade, gender equality, labour and the environment.
Session: Trade Negotiations Human Rights
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Is it not time to free up space by removing Julian Assange from Belmarsh maximum security facility? Will the Minister ensure that he is able to attend proceedings in person?
Context
Julian Assange has been held in Belmarsh maximum security facility since April 2019.
Damian Hinds
I think the hon. Gentleman has achieved his objective: to get something on the record. I will not comment on ongoing cases, but, speaking more generally, access to justice is at the heart of what we do.
Session: Topical Questions
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War manifests itself not just in today's combat but for future generations. As a signatory to the convention on cluster munitions, the UK is aware of the reprehensible nature of these weapons. Will the Minister assure us that US supplies of those weapons to Ukraine will not be allowed through US airbases in the UK?
Context
The UK is a signatory to the convention on cluster munitions. There are concerns about US supplies of these weapons being transported through UK airbases.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Member makes a point about cluster munitions, and the position of the British Government is very clear: we have signed the treaty against their use. Other countries' position is a matter for them, but that is the very clear position of the British Government.
Session: UN Convention against Torture
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Whether his Department has received recent representations on the adequacy of the United Nations convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Context
The United Kingdom is a signatory to the United Nations Convention Against Torture. The question arises from recent representations questioning the adequacy of this convention.
Andrew Mitchell
The UK is a state party to the United Nations convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, and works closely with partners to eradicate the use of torture.
Session: UN Convention against Torture
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Is it not time that the Scottish Government had control over some migration visas, even of a limited timescale?
Context
Brexit has led to labour shortages in fishing and farming, causing crops to be ploughed back into fields.
Mark Spencer
We have issued 45,000 possible visas on the seasonal agriculture worker scheme and we are currently nowhere near that level. There are an extra 10,000 visas available should the industry require them. We have not seen the necessity to trigger those extra 10,000 at this moment in time, which is because there are adequate visas available to support farmers and fishermen.
Session: Food Production Costs
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What steps her Department is taking to help mitigate the impact of increased food production costs on (a) consumers and (b) businesses. The war in Ukraine has placed pressures on global imports and energy costs, affecting British growers and food security.
Context
The question arises from the impact of increased food production costs on consumers and businesses.
Mark Spencer
Putin's illegal war in Ukraine has placed pressures on global imports and energy costs. We have taken significant action to support British growers and to safeguard our food security. Building on the work to invest in fertiliser supply and slurry storage, energy infrastructure and costs, the Prime Minister recently hosted the first ever UK Farm to Fork summit on productivity and sustainability, as part of maintaining the £2.4 billion budget for farming each year.
Session: Food Production Costs
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The roll-out of smart metering is crucial as we approach March 2024 when radio teleswitching will cease. Only four out of 32 Scottish local authorities are above 50% in the roll-out, with five below 30%, and three island councils below 10%. These areas also face high fuel poverty. How will people have access to smart metering for off-peak tariffs?
Context
Only four out of 32 Scottish local authorities have more than 50% roll-out of smart meters, with five below 30%, and three island councils below 10%. These areas also experience high fuel poverty. As radio teleswitching ceases to operate in March 2024, the MP is concerned about access to off-peak tariffs for those affected.
Graham Stuart
Smart metering is important and we want it equitably distributed. The hon. Gentleman's points are well made and I or colleagues would be happy to meet him to discuss addressing these issues.
Session: Net Zero Target Population Increases
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Negotiations for the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership included concessions to Malaysia on palm oil tariffs. What role did DEFRAD have in these negotiations? Will the Government ensure back letters protect social and environmental interests?
Context
The proposed accession to the trans-Pacific partnership required concessions for Malaysia on palm oil tariffs, raising concerns about deforestation.
Therese Coffey
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was heavily involved. Our FLEGT regulations will ensure sustainable supply chains. However, no specific mention of back letters to protect social or environmental interests.
Session: Topical Questions
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In Ireland, €24 million per annum goes to coastal communities hosting offshore renewable projects. In the UK, there is a legislative gap preventing similar provisions for onshore communities hosting offshore wind energy. East Lothian has Cockenzie and Torness where energy will come ashore with turbines in sight; what share should communities like these have?
Context
The MP highlights the disparity between Irish and UK community benefits for hosting offshore renewable energy projects.
John Lamont
The growth of our green industries will lead to new jobs and many benefits for our communities. We are producing a net zero and nature workforce action plan in 2024 with initial proposals from the net zero power and networks pilot working group followed by comprehensive actions by summer 2023.
Session: Offshore Wind Employment
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What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues and the Scottish Government on maximising employment opportunities in the offshore wind sector? It is not just about employment but also about community benefit, where Ireland ensures €24 million per annum goes to coastal communities hosting offshore renewable projects. In East Lothian, there will be turbines coming ashore at Cockenzie and Torness without any provision for offshore wind and onshore communities.
Context
The MP notes that Scotland is losing out on employment opportunities and community benefits in the offshore wind sector compared to Ireland.
John Lamont
The future for Scotland's offshore wind sector is bright. As part of our “Powering up Britain” package, the floating offshore wind manufacturing investment scheme is currently open to applications. Through the scheme, we will distribute funding to support critical port infrastructure that will enable the delivery of floating offshore wind and provide quality employment opportunities for years to come.
Session: Offshore Wind Employment
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The Minister is asked if there is a need for single-sex spaces and services across other Departments, based on the criterion of sex at birth.
Context
The Ministry of Justice has made changes regarding transgender prisoners, excluding those guilty of sexual or violent offences from the general women's estate.
Damian Hinds
Safety must come first. More than 90% of transgender women prisoners are housed in the male estate, with policy strengthened to house those who have committed sexual or violent offences elsewhere only under exceptional circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Government provide clarity on their intentions regarding the upgrade of the east coast main line and the A1? We have had regular meetings with the Scottish Government, and sadly, we seem to have made no progress since Sir Peter Hendy's review.
Context
Sir Peter Hendy's Union connectivity review highlighted the need for upgrading the east coast main line and the A1, but there has been no progress due to ongoing obfuscation from both the UK and Scottish Governments.
Oliver Dowden
My right hon. Friend will be happy to provide that, and he can report record levels of investment across our whole United Kingdom under this Government.
Session: Government Transparency and Co-ordination
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Last year, during a British Army exercise at the Lolldaiga training camp in Kenya, a fire was caused, which has led to 6,000 Kenyans seeking compensation. I appreciate that the Minister may not be sighted on that, but will he ensure that the Army's investigation into it is made public, especially if firearms, explosives or drugs are involved?
Context
A fire was caused during a British Army exercise at the Lolldaiga training camp in Kenya, leading to compensation claims by Kenyans.
James Heappey
I will write to the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister ensure that the long-term workforce plan being developed by NHS England gives consideration to the plans being prepared by NHS Scotland to minimise duplication and try to ensure the best possible patient outcomes in both countries?
Context
Cancer services are facing significant barriers due to workforce shortages, impacting waiting lists and patient outcomes.
Will Quince
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. We remain absolutely committed to growing and supporting our vital NHS workforce. In addition to the work already in place to continue growing the workforce, we have, as he mentioned, commissioned NHS England to develop a long-term plan for the workforce, looking at the next 15 years. It is important that we do that in tandem and I will have conversations—I think later this week—with my counterpart in the Scottish Government.
Session: Nursing Workforce Recruitment and Retention
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What recent representations has he received on recruitment and retention of the nursing workforce?
Context
The nursing workforce faces significant challenges in recruitment and retention, affecting healthcare services across the UK.
Will Quince
We are on target to meet the 50,000 nurses manifesto commitment, with nursing numbers more than 29,000 higher in August this year than they were in September 2019 and more than 9,100 higher than in August last year. We are working across a range of delivery partners to invest in and diversify our training pipeline, conduct ethical international recruitment, improve retention and support return to practice.
Session: Nursing Workforce Recruitment and Retention
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Does the Secretary accept that with full energy crisis costs yet impacting them and winter still to arrive, it would be perverse if bankers' bonuses were uncapped while pension benefits were not to increase at least in line with inflation?
Context
The Trussell Trust reports that 40% of universal credit claimants are skipping meals due to budgetary constraints, and winter is approaching.
Mel Stride
The hon. Gentleman will receive the same answer about when the House will know of the uprating applied to pensions and benefits more generally, including the pensions triple lock. This decision is made by the Secretary in conjunction with discussions with the Treasury and figures will be available at the time of the autumn statement on 17 November.
Session: Uprating of Benefits
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What recent discussions has the Secretary had with Cabinet colleagues, devolved Administrations, and relevant stakeholders on uprating benefits in line with inflation? The full energy crisis costs have yet to impact them and winter is still to arrive. Is it not perverse if bankers' bonuses are uncapped while pension benefits do not increase at least in line with inflation?
Context
The Trussell Trust reports that 40% of universal credit claimants are skipping meals due to budgetary constraints, and winter is approaching.
Mel Stride
The hon. Gentleman will receive the same answer about when the House will know of the uprating applied to pensions and benefits more generally, including the pensions triple lock. This decision is made by the Secretary in conjunction with discussions with the Treasury and figures will be available at the time of the autumn statement on 17 November.
Session: Uprating of Benefits
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In previous energy revolutions, Scottish communities largely missed out. The offshore renewables revolution is occurring off East Lothian's coast but much of it will be cabled southwards. Where are the jobs and benefits for East Lothian? Will you meet me and representatives of East Lothian Council to ensure that the offshore renewables revolution benefits the county as well?
Context
The question addresses the distribution of benefits from offshore renewable energy projects, particularly in relation to historical patterns and current developments in East Lothian.
Helen Whately
The Government are committed to ensuring that the whole of the United Kingdom benefits from our investment in renewables and our transition to net zero and the growth that that affords us, and I am happy to look into the matter that the hon. Gentleman raised.
Session: National Infrastructure Projects
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What recent estimate do you have of the value of infrastructure projects to be delivered through the national infrastructure and construction pipeline?
Context
The question seeks an estimate of the value of infrastructure projects to be delivered through the national infrastructure and construction pipeline.
Helen Whately
The 2021 national infrastructure and construction pipeline set out nearly £650 billion of planned and projected public and private investment in infrastructure over the next 10 years. Last year's Budget and spending review set out how we will deliver on commitments in the national infrastructure strategy, and go further in providing more investment to every part of the UK.
Session: National Infrastructure Projects
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Communities must have local as well as large-scale projects such as turbine manufacturing, which Scotland is sadly missing out on. There is a legislative gap to allow community benefit from offshore as opposed to onshore wind. Will the Minister meet me to discuss this to see whether East Lothian and other such communities can benefit from offshore wind?
Context
The questioner highlights that communities such as East Lothian are denied a share of the wealth generated by offshore wind projects and asks for legislative changes to allow community benefits.
Iain Stewart
This Government are committed to the transition of the economy to net zero by 2050. We recently published our net zero strategy, which will support hundreds of thousands of well-paid jobs and leverage up to £90 billion of private investment by 2030 across the entire United Kingdom. I am always happy to meet the hon. Gentleman, but I would point out to him that this Government are investing heavily in offshore wind, as was announced this week by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister.
Session: Renewables and Green Energy Onshore Employment
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What steps he is taking to support onshore employment from renewables and other forms of green energy in Scotland. Communities must have local as well as large-scale projects such as turbine manufacturing, which Scotland is sadly missing out on, but communities such as my own in East Lothian are denied a share of the wealth going ashore.
Context
The questioner is concerned about the lack of support for local communities to benefit from renewable energy projects in Scotland.
Iain Stewart
This Government are committed to the transition of the economy to net zero by 2050. We recently published our net zero strategy, which will support hundreds of thousands of well-paid jobs and leverage up to £90 billion of private investment by 2030 across the entire United Kingdom. I am always happy to meet the hon. Gentleman, but I would point out to him that this Government are investing heavily in offshore wind, as was announced this week by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister.
Session: Renewables and Green Energy Onshore Employment
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Is the Attorney General able to make any representations to ensure that the European convention on human rights and other protocols are followed when they apply to such rights and powers?
Context
Craig Murray, a Scottish journalist, has been jailed for eight months without appeal.
Suella Braverman
We must ensure that all journalists have the right to express themselves and work in a free society. We are incredibly proud of that tradition in this country and our human rights regime rightly protects freedom of expression. I am happy to discuss this vital matter further with the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Effective and Accountable Justice
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What steps is she taking with the Secretary of State for Justice to ensure an effective and accountable criminal justice system?
Context
The question arises from the need for an effective and accountable criminal justice system.
Suella Braverman
Together with colleagues in the Home Office, the Crown Prosecution Service and the Ministry of Justice, we have developed a criminal justice action plan to drive system recovery as we rebuild after the pandemic. Progress against the action plan will be measured by a set of criminal justice scorecards, which will be published quarterly from this autumn.
Session: Effective and Accountable Justice
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Scottish communities, other than those in Shetland, failed to benefit from the North sea oil and gas bounty landing on their shores. Now that the North sea's offshore wind is casting ashore on East Lothian, will the Treasury ensure that East Lothian will actually benefit, as opposed to it all simply being transmission-stationed down south? Or will it go the same way as Scotland's oil and gas: down to the Treasury?
Context
The MP inquires about ensuring that the benefits of North Sea offshore wind development reach East Lothian.
Kemi Badenoch
We support the UK oil and gas sector, especially as gas is a transition fuel to net zero. The sector supports 147,000 jobs directly in its supply chains. I take the point that the hon. Gentleman raises; if he would like to write to me with more detail, I think I will be able to give him more comprehensive answers.
Session: Topical Questions
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That is all very well, but food production businesses in my constituency face a loss of trade, challenges with customs, and damage to their supply chains. They require to operate in today's land, not some promised land that their business might never survive to be able to see. What is the Minister going to do to ensure that their difficulties are minimised and that support for them is maximised? They need butter today, not a promise of jam tomorrow.
Context
Food production companies in the MP's constituency face challenges with customs and supply chains due to post-Brexit changes.
Graham Stuart
It would very much help if the Scottish Government and the SNP supported trade deals. Scotland trades more with the rest of the world than with the EU, and EU volumes in May were back to pre-pandemic levels. The teething problems are being dealt with, other issues minimised, and government support is available.
Session: Export Opportunities
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Household Energy Debt
23 April 2024
Responding: Amanda Solloway
Main Concerns
["Kenny MacAskill is concerned about the escalating household energy debt in Scotland and across the UK, citing Ofgem's figures that show £3.1 billion of energy debt with a 50% increase over the last year. He notes that in Scotland, fuel poverty affects 31% of households based on the Scottish Government's house condition survey, reaching almost 50% in northern and island areas. MacAskill also highlights specific challenges faced by disabled individuals, older people, and those who rely on energy for life-saving equipment. He mentions average debt figures from Citizens Advice Scotland at around £2,300 per household."]
Specific Asks
['MacAskill calls for a social tariff to assist the poorest and most vulnerable households, restoration of the moratorium on forced prepayment meter installations, review and enhancement of the warm home discount scheme with increased payments, and a debt write-off scheme as proposed by National Energy Action. He urges transparency in how the £1.5 billion allowance in the energy price cap is being used to service existing debt.']
Energy Costs and Charges
21 November 2023
Responding: Amanda Solloway
Main Concerns
["Scots are paying more for electricity despite Scotland producing a significant portion of the UK's renewable energy. In 2021, Scotland exported 35 TWh of electricity to England and this is expected to rise to 124 TWh by 2030. However, no financial return is received for this resource. Furthermore, there are efforts to take Scottish-produced energy directly south without payment, exacerbating the issue of fuel poverty in Scotland where more than a third of residents have been assessed as being in fuel poverty and almost a quarter are in extreme fuel poverty."]
Specific Asks
['Will the Minister direct Ofgem to abolish standing charges or at least equalise them across the UK? Additionally, will she ensure that there is a social tariff for vulnerable households this year?']
Offshore Wind: Public Ownership
12 September 2023
Responding: Graham Stuart
Main Concerns
["Mr Kenny MacAskill is concerned that Scotland's offshore wind resources are being exploited by foreign state-owned companies, leading to a loss of potential profits and benefits for the Scottish people. He cites examples such as Neart na Gaoithe, operated by EDF Energy from France and Electricity Supply Board (ESB) from Ireland, where wealth generated is benefiting Paris and Dublin rather than Scotland or the UK. Additionally, he highlights that while other nations like Denmark take a 20% stake in offshore wind developments, the UK Government remains opposed to such public ownership initiatives."]
Specific Asks
["Mr MacAskill asks the Minister to confirm that his government will neither oppose a state energy company nor prevent Scotland from taking a share of its natural wealth. He demands an end to the current situation where Scotland is described as 'energy-rich' yet experiencing fuel poverty among its citizens."]
Immigration Rules: Offshore Workers
06 June 2023
Responding: Chris Philp
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the exploitation of UK workers by unscrupulous employers who import low-paid migrant labour for offshore wind projects, undermining UK employment laws. He cites examples such as the Neart na Gaoithe project and the P&O scandal where foreign labour was used instead of local workers. There are also concerns about the extension of offshore worker exemptions and the lack of guidance on immigration rules within the exclusive economic zone.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the government to ensure that UK immigration rules secure the protection of UK workers by basing this on specific need where skills shortages have been identified, ensuring these regulations are temporary and subject to regular oversight. He also requests that employers adhere to UK employment laws and national minimum wage requirements.']
Ports (Forth and Clyde) — [Ms Nusrat Ghani in the Chair]
07 June 2022
Responding: Iain Stewart
Main Concerns
['Mr Kenny MacAskill is concerned about the ownership and regulation of ports on the Forth and Clyde, particularly highlighting that these ports are owned by foreign entities such as the Canadian Public Sector Pension Investment Board for the Forth Ports and Peel Ports plc in Manchester for Clydeports. He mentions specific statistics: 16 million tonnes of cargo from Tilbury compared to 9 million tonnes from Grangemouth; and 31 million tonnes of trade at Mersey, 9 million tonnes at Medway, leaving the Clyde trailing at under 7 million tonnes. These foreign owners focus their operations outside Scotland, harming local communities and the national economy.']
Specific Asks
['Mr MacAskill calls for action from the UK Government to break up these monopolies through the Competition and Markets Authority or by pursuing compulsory purchase or creation of new ports by the Scottish Government.']
Direct Ferry Links: Scotland and Mainland Europe
12 January 2022
Responding: Iain Stewart
Main Concerns
['Mr Kenny MacAskill is concerned about the lack of direct ferry links between Scotland and mainland Europe. He points out that road freight has been severely impacted by driver absence, customs nightmares, and additional bureaucracy post-Brexit. The cost of fuel has also risen significantly, making it challenging for businesses to access ports far from their locations. Additionally, he highlights the environmental benefits of maritime transport over trucking and mentions that other countries have taken steps to improve ferry services while Scotland remains inactive. He cites Ireland as an example, where direct freight routes were expanded, and passenger services increased, avoiding customs backlogs and reducing road journeys.']
Specific Asks
['Mr Kenny MacAskill calls for the UK Government to match or exceed the benefits of EU membership by establishing a motorways of the sea scheme. He also asks for state support for new maritime ventures similar to that provided for roads and railways, such as funding from the route development fund.']
Offshore Renewables Wind Sector
30 November 2021
Responding: Greg Hands
Main Concerns
["Mr. Kenny MacAskill is concerned about the potential benefits of Scotland's offshore wind sector not being fully realised, especially in comparison to Norway's management of its oil and gas resources. He highlights that Scotland possesses 25% of Europe's offshore wind potential but questions where the economic benefits are for Scottish communities given projects like Berwick Bank alone could power up to 5 million homes. MacAskill also mentions the lack of local manufacturing jobs in Scottish shipyards, while similar projects elsewhere receive government funding and create more employment opportunities."]
Specific Asks
['Mr. Kenny MacAskill asks the Minister to ensure that funds are available for developing turbine manufacturing in Scotland, contracts for offshore fields should go to local yards, and steps be taken so that communities benefit from a regulated regime of community benefits similar to those seen with onshore wind turbines.']
Russia
08 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
War in Gaza
07 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
26 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Women’s State Pension Age
25 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK Armed Forces
11 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
27 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ceasefire in Gaza
21 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Petroleum Act 1998 (Amendment) Bill - Clause 1 - Duty to invite applications for offshore licences
20 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment proposed by Alok Sharma seeks to prevent the OGA from inviting new seaward area production application licences until a ban on flaring and venting is in place. It requires regulations to...
Broadcasting (Listed Sporting Events) (Scotland)
20 February 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Proposes a Bill to expand the list of sporting events that must be made available for broadcast by free-to-air television channels to include all qualifying matches played by the Scotland men’s and wo...
8
PMQs Asked
63
Ministerial Questions Asked
76
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
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
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+370% above average
This MP:
63
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1464% above average
This MP:
76
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 Kenny MacAskill's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.