Scottish Independence Referendum 2025-10-22
2025-10-22
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Conservative MP expressed concern over the SNP's pursuit of a Scottish independence referendum, highlighting perceived wastage of taxpayer funds.
I thank the Secretary of State for his unequivocal rejection of separatism. He will always find on the Conservative side fellow colleagues who treasure this United Kingdom and want to shout about the most successful alliance in political history. What specific steps can he take to prevent more taxpayers’ cash being squandered as the SNP pursues its doomed dream?
As my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland made clear, we have committed £5.2 billion to the Scottish Government this year—the largest settlement in the 25 years of devolution. There is a very basic question that we Scots are asking: “Where’s the money gone, John?” The reality is that our services are getting worse, not better, and we see industrial-level waste from the SNP. That is why it is time for a new direction.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific steps to prevent taxpayer funds being wasted but defended government spending and criticised SNP
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Defended Uk Labour Record
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The SNP MP welcomed the Secretary of State to his position but mocked Labour's support for him, noting Labour's declining popularity in polls.
I, too, welcome the Secretary of State to his place, although it seems that his appointment has not been universally welcomed. Indeed, I hear that the Daily Record, having asked his Labour colleagues for their opinion, feared an asterisk shortage. One particularly caustic comrade said: 'If I had a pound for everyone who liked Douglas, I would have 50p.' But rest assured, Mr Speaker, his appointment was welcomed with open arms on the SNP Benches, and I have to admit to having a grudging admiration for him as someone who cares not about the opinion of other people.
Well, Mr Speaker, the quality of the SNP’s contributions does not seem to have improved since 2007, and neither has its arguments. In the face of failing schools and hospitals, and the inability to build ferries in the hon. Gentleman’s own constituency, what do we see? Once again, dreary documents about independence. The reality is that the SNP has let Scotland down, and Scotland deserves better. That is why we are up for the fight in May.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address mockery of Labour's support but instead criticised SNP's record on public services
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Criticised Snp
Response accuracy