Scottish Trade and Culture 2023-06-29
2023-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is inquiring about the government's efforts to promote Scottish trade and cultural exports internationally.
What discussions has she had with Cabinet colleagues and the Scottish Government on promoting Scottish trade and culture overseas?
I regularly discuss with my Cabinet colleagues promoting trade in Scotland as well as the United Kingdom as a whole. Just this week I chaired a meeting of the Board of Trade that focused on trade promotion across the nations, and held discussions alongside the Secretary of State for Scotland on ensuring that the Department's work delivers for the whole UK.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific details of these discussions with Scottish Government are not provided
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of Brexit on cultural exports, particularly for musicians from Glasgow North who are facing difficulties touring in Europe.
How does she think ending freedom of movement has helped to promote Scottish trade and culture overseas? Does she think it is a good thing that musicians find it more difficult to tour in Europe, and that manufacturing costs have increased due to customs issues?
We understand there are issues across borders. My Department works closely with musicians and traders to resolve such issues, and is well placed to help constituents with their concerns if they exist in the hon. Gentleman's constituency.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific impact of ending freedom of movement on trade and culture has not been addressed
General Statement
Changing Subject
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the potential benefits and delays in completing a free trade agreement that could have eliminated tariffs on Scotch whisky exports to India.
Has the free trade agreement been completed by Diwali this year, given it was promised for last year's Diwali and negotiations are ongoing?
Every trade agreement is bespoke to the specific country, tailored for mutual benefit. The Scotch Whisky Association reports positive feedback from Indian counterparts regarding negotiations, and we are working hard to ensure industry success.
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Assessment & feedback
The exact completion date has not been confirmed
General Statement
Changing Subject
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raises concerns about increased costs due to new regulations post-Brexit affecting Scotland's seafood industry.
Does she accept that the form of Brexit chosen, particularly the divergence in sanitary and phytosanitary matters, is adding significant costs to Scotland's seafood sector?
No, I do not accept that at all. The increase in costs is due to the Scottish Government's deposit return scheme and their attempts to split the UK single market.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific impact of Brexit on seafood packaging costs has been avoided
Criticising Opposition
Response accuracy