Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Covid-19: Support for Businesses

Wednesday 9 September 2020 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Government are having regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues, including the Chancellor, regarding the impact of coronavirus in Scotland.
  • Over 2.3 billion of business support has been provided through government-backed loan schemes.
  • Government are committed to developing hydrogen technology, with Scottish companies participating in the Hydrogen Advisory Council launched in July.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs
Economy Scotland
Context

Discussions are ongoing about the economic impact of coronavirus in Scotland, with a focus on supporting local businesses.

Question

What discussions has the Minister had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding economic support available for Scottish businesses during the covid-19 outbreak?

Answer from Iain Stewart

The Government are having regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues, including the Chancellor, regarding the impact of coronavirus in Scotland. Over £2.3 billion of business support has been provided through government-backed loan schemes.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not specify the exact nature or substance of the discussions between the Minister and the Chancellor on economic support for Scottish businesses.

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Q2 Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs
Climate Scotland Business & Trade
Context

Scotland has significant renewable resources that could position it as a leader in the global hydrogen market, estimated at $2.5 trillion.

Question

Given Scotland's abundant renewable resources, what conversations are taking place between the Government and Scotland to ensure that we seize this opportunity together as a Union?

Answer from Iain Stewart

Government are committed to developing hydrogen technology. The Hydrogen Advisory Council was launched in July, involving Government and UK industry, with Scottish companies participating.

Answered
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Q3 Chris Elmore Lab Bridgend
Economy Scotland Benefits & Welfare
Context

Businesses across Scotland, particularly those in hospitality and accommodation sectors, are in need of additional support from the UK Government.

Question

Will the Minister please today announce an extension of the furlough scheme for businesses that need it most, especially in Scotland's hospitality and accommodation sectors?

Answer from Iain Stewart

The Minister congratulates the hon. Member on his newborn daughter and notes that while the Chancellor's approach may be correct, specific support will continue through schemes like the job retention scheme to aid all sectors of the economy.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit to extending the furlough scheme specifically for Scottish businesses in need.

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Q4 Alistair Carmichael Lib Dem Orkney and Shetland
Scotland
Context

Local newspapers in Scotland received advertising support from the UK Government at discounted rates but were later asked for further discounts, raising concerns.

Question

Is the Minister content that his Government should be treating Scotland's local newspapers by requesting further discounts on previously agreed rates?

Answer from Iain Stewart

The partnership to support the newspaper industry was unique, and the terms of agreement were commercially confidential. At least 60% of funding supports smaller local titles; willing to explore specific issues with titles in his constituency.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not directly address contentment or discontent with how Government are treating local newspapers, only offered to look into specific issues.

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