What discussions he has had with the Scottish Government on school standards. I am concerned about the decline in school standards in Scotland, which was once a benchmark for others but is now disappointing.

When my right hon. Friend discusses with SNP Ministers, through announcements made this week, the huge employment opportunities that this Government have created for young people in Scotland, will he impress on them the urgent need to finally tackle the persistent—and in some areas widening—attainment gap faced by pupils from poorer backgrounds? These concerns are often raised by residents of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse.