Increasing Devolution Across the UK 2022-01-24
2022-01-24
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The levelling-up fund has been perceived to bypass devolved governments, and concerns exist over the United Kingdom Internal Market Act's potential to override decisions made by Scottish and Welsh parliaments.
What plans his Department has to increase devolution across the UK. Unfortunately, the levelling-up fund is already being used to bypass the devolved Governments, and the UKIM Act 2020 could enable UK Ministers to overrule the decisions of the Scottish and Welsh Parliaments. Does he not recognise that riding roughshod over devolution will force people in Scotland and Wales to choose between direct rule by Westminster or independence?
I appreciate the point made but note that several Scottish constituencies received funds through the levelling-up fund, with support from SNP MPs and councils. We work collaboratively with the Scottish Government to advance shared interests despite differing views on constitutional issues.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific concern about bypassing devolved governments was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The levelling-up fund has been used in ways that some perceive as undermining the autonomy of devolved administrations, raising concerns about the UK Internal Market Act's implications for governance.
Does he not recognise that riding roughshod over devolution will force people in Scotland and Wales to choose between direct rule by Westminster or independence?
I acknowledge that there is a point made but want to highlight successful collaborations with both Scottish and Welsh Governments on funding allocations, noting that we can work together despite differing views on governance structures.
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Assessment & feedback
The direct question about constitutional choices was not explicitly answered.
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Freeports are being seen as a mechanism for levelling up across the UK, with specific interest in their implementation within Welsh regions.
Can the Secretary of State update on ongoing discussions with the Welsh Government about freeports, including when we can expect the prospectus to be published?
We have had productive discussions with both Scottish and Welsh Governments on freeports. We hope to make an announcement soon about the Welsh freeport process, currently envisaging one freeport but recognising potential for more in future.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Secretary of State's comments about Scottish Conservatives have led to calls for the Prime Minister's resignation, raising questions about his ability to increase devolution while facing such criticisms.
With Tory leaders in Scotland calling for the PM's resignation due to perceived insults and criticism by the Secretary of State and others, how can he increase devolution when Scots believe he is harming the Union?
I did not realise saying someone was from Elgin would be seen as an insult; I view it as a compliment. Regardless, the focus remains on advancing collaborative work despite political disagreements.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific question about increasing devolution while facing leadership challenges was sidestepped by addressing a previous comment about Elgin.
Response accuracy