Devolved Administrations Relations with UK Government 2021-10-25
2021-10-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questions the effectiveness of the UK Government's relationship with the devolved administrations, particularly in light of recent statements about Scottish independence and Brexit policy.
What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Government's relations with the devolved Administrations? The chief of staff to the former Prime Minister stated that support for Scottish independence rose from the moment Boris Johnson became Prime Minister, driven mainly by opposition to the UK's Brexit policy and perceived handling of the pandemic.
Scotland's democratic destiny was asserted in the 2014 referendum when a majority voted to remain in the UK. The strength of the UK is visible daily, with Glasgow hosting COP26 and benefiting from a billion-pound-a-year Union dividend.
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Assessment & feedback
Specifically avoided addressing why dismissing Scotland's democratic rights will strengthen the Union.
Changed Subject To Cop26
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about the commitment to establish at least one freeport in Wales, referencing her role as chair of the Anglesey freeport bidding consortium.
This Government are committed to at least one new freeport in Wales. Can the Secretary of State reassure my Ynys Môn constituents that he is working with the Welsh Government to ensure that there is at least one new freeport in Wales?
Freeports are an advantage for UK coastal communities as a result of Brexit. Investment will be made available to every part of the United Kingdom, and the Secretary is looking forward to working with partners in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide concrete reassurance or timeline for establishing freeports in Wales.
Vague Commitment To Collaboration
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questions the role of devolved governments in trade deals, carbon capture projects, and the UK Internal Market Act.
In what ways does bypassing devolved Parliaments show that this Union is a partnership of equals? Devolved Governments are not involved in trade deals; Scotland is shut out of carbon capture storage; and the UKIMA undermines the last two decades of the devolution settlement.
I meet weekly with First Ministers from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Those meetings are like festivals of cordiality, showing that UK Government is friends and partners to Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address how bypassing devolved Parliaments demonstrates partnership equality.
Emphasized Friendship And Meetings With First Ministers
Response accuracy