Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by ongoing discussions within the government regarding human rights legislation.
What recent discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues on strengthening human rights in the UK?
The Government stands by their manifesto commitment to update the Human Rights Act 1998. They are looking again at the Bill of Rights to ensure delivery on objectives effectively. The government remains a committed party to the European Convention on Human Rights.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific details about recent discussions or concrete actions taken.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the abuse of legal systems to silence journalists, campaigners and public bodies.
Has the Secretary of State proposals to protect free speech from SLAPPs?
Yes. The government is determined to introduce legislation to deal with SLAPPs and protect freedom of speech more widely, including through targeted anti-SLAPP reforms.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from criticism of the government's intent to remove protections under the Human Rights Act.
Why are the Government so intent on removing these protections when the Act already grants flexibility?
The minister highlights the need to protect freedom of speech from cancel culture and ensures targeted anti-SLAPP reforms will deliver through a statutory definition, identifying characteristics, and cost protections for SLAPPs cases.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address why existing protections are being removed despite Act's flexibility.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the implications of changes to the Human Rights Act for Scotland's devolved authority.
Does the Secretary of State agree with Professor Aileen McHarg that changes to the Human Rights Act will affect devolved competence?
The government is committed to delivering manifesto pledges and doing the right thing for the UK. They have consulted all devolved authorities throughout the process of looking at the Bill of Rights.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address whether changes will affect devolved competence or need Scottish Parliament consent.
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The question follows from concerns about dismissing the views of Scotland in relation to human rights.
Will the Secretary of State stop tinkering with human rights if the Scottish Parliament says no?
The government remains committed to delivering manifesto pledges and will continue engaging but does not commit to stopping reforms based on Scottish Parliament's opinion.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to respecting Scottish Parliament's views or stop reforms if they say no.
Response accuracy