Rise in the Cost of Living 2022-02-02
2022-02-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussions are ongoing about how rising costs affect people in Scotland. The questioner is seeking details on cabinet discussions.
What discussions have you had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential effect of the rise in the cost of living on people in Scotland?
This Government have consistently said that the best way to support people's living standards is through good work, better skills and higher wages. Our plan for jobs is working, the economy is growing and unemployment is low. The national living wage, the universal credit taper and allowance changes are putting more money in people's pockets.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific cabinet discussions regarding cost of living impact on Scotland were not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK energy market is facing issues, especially concerning price disparities between urban and rural regions. The questioner seeks an investigation into these practices.
The UK energy market is demonstrably broken. I am concerned about rural energy prices and disparities between urban and rural areas. Will the Minister support my call for an investigation into uncompetitive energy practices?
First, let me welcome the city of culture bid by the hon. Gentleman's home city. I am always happy to visit Stirling—in fact, I believe that I am coming up to visit in the next couple of weeks. I am very happy to meet him to discuss the measures to which he refers, but energy prices are rising globally due to easing coronavirus restrictions and other geopolitical factors.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about investigating uncompetitive energy practices was not addressed directly; instead, focus shifted to global context and personal visit to Stirling.
Changing Subject
Global Context
Response accuracy