Allegations of Impropriety in Public Life 2024-03-06
2024-03-06
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from concerns about allegations of impropriety in public life and their impact on efforts to strengthen the Union.
What assessment has been made of the potential implications of allegations of impropriety in public life for his Department's work on strengthening the Union?
Our Union is strong. Yes, it is. Scotland's contribution to our United Kingdom is beyond doubt, and this Government's commitment to Scotland is without question. From freeports and investment zones to the record block grant and £1.5 billion for the 12 city and region growth deals, we deliver for Scotland.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The potential implications of allegations of impropriety on strengthening the Union were not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Concerns about the engagement level of SNP MPs in Westminster, particularly regarding statements from their deputy leader suggesting non-engagement if they win seats at the next election.
SNP MPs have been disengaged from Westminster for years. Does the Secretary of State agree that it is a disgrace that its deputy leader has said that its MPs will not engage should the party win seats at the next general election? Does he also agree that Members elected to this House should turn up and do their job?
I agree with the hon. Lady.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific engagement issues and their implications were not addressed beyond a brief agreement.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Concern about ongoing interference in the complaints process against the First Minister of Scotland, despite previous debates and rulings.
Three years ago, on 16 March 2021, we had a debate in this House on precisely the subject of this question. At the time, I was concerned that Nicola Sturgeon's Government were covering up interference in the complaints process against the First Minister. Since then, in defiance of the Information Commissioner and of a court order, they have continued to cover up. Will the Cabinet Secretary look at whether the ministerial code and the civil service code have been broken?
My right hon. Friend should write to the Cabinet Secretary and ask him to do that very thing.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific request for an investigation was not directly addressed, only suggested.
Response accuracy