Green Freeports 2022-03-16
2022-03-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is inquiring about discussions regarding the economic implications of establishing two green freeports in Scotland.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact on the Scottish economy of establishing two green freeports in Scotland?
I have regular discussions with my Cabinet colleagues on all relevant UK Government policies that support economic growth in Scotland. The landmark agreement between Scotland's two Governments to establish two new UK freeports will support the regeneration of communities in Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific details about recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of establishing two green freeports in Scotland
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is questioning the potential benefits of establishing two freeports in Scotland, citing an example from the East Midlands.
Freeports are a real opportunity to bolster the UK's economy. In the east midlands we have a freeport that is bringing 60,000 jobs and green investment. Does my right hon. Friend agree that that will be the case if two freeports go ahead in Scotland? Does that not demonstrate levelling up across the UK and our Union?
Everyone who cares about Scotland's prosperity will welcome the additional UK Government investment of up to £52 million, on top of the massive tax and customs benefits to the Scottish economy, drawing in more private sector investment. I would have thought that all parties in Scotland would have welcomed the opportunities and jobs that will flow from the new freeports in Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address whether two freeports in Scotland would bring similar benefits as those seen elsewhere, focusing instead on welcoming the investment and opportunity without concrete comparison
Changing Subject To Criticism Of Snp Government'S Coalition Partners
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is questioning the government's stance on reviewing their freeports policy given the potential for tax dodging and economic crime.
Freeports around the world have long had an association with tax dodging and economic crime. In light of the Government's responsibility to bring forward an economic crime Bill No. 2, will they review their freeports policy?
That is an utterly ridiculous question. I received a letter from a Scottish Government Minister saying that freeports were a “tarnished brand” reminiscent of smuggling and tax evasion, just before they signed up to our policy.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the need for reviewing freeports policy in light of economic crime concerns
Attacking The Question As Ridiculous
Changing Subject To Criticism Of A Scottish Government Minister
Response accuracy