Freeports Economic Impact 2022-06-29
2022-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Discussions are ongoing about the potential economic benefits and impacts of establishing two freeports in Scotland, with a focus on their contribution to the local economy.
What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential economic impact of building two freeports in Scotland?
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Scotland Office are delighted that the UK Government's freeport programme is being extended to Scotland. UK Government funding of up to £52 million for two new green freeports will boost Scotland's economy by regenerating communities, creating high-quality jobs and supporting the transition to a net zero economy.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK Government anticipates that the existing confirmed freeports will contribute £24 billion to the UK economy. There is a concern about political division and the potential impact of a referendum on Scottish separatism.
Does my hon. Friend agree that it is vital that all political parties get behind the green freeports initiative to maximise the benefits they will bring to Scotland and the whole UK, rather than a divisive, costly and unwanted referendum on Scottish separatism?
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We have received five competitive bids for Scottish green freeports and the two Governments are working closely together to assess the proposals. I am confident that we will announce two outstanding winners that will create highly paid jobs, help to regenerate the areas around the ports and become global and national hubs of trade, innovation and investment.
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Assessment & feedback
Divisive referendum on Scottish separatism
We Have Received Five Competitive Bids For Scottish Green Freeports And The Two Governments Are Working Closely Together To Assess The Proposals.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There are five strong bids from across Scotland for the two proposed green freeports, each presenting a high quality case. There is concern about supporting local economies that may not be successful.
Will the Minister's Department consider what support can be given to unsuccessful areas and whether that support can be widened?
We will certainly look at that. Of course there is intense competition for the freeports, which will create huge benefits not only for the local area, but for all of Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
Additional support for unsuccessful areas
We Will Certainly Look At That.
Response accuracy