Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Scotland’s Constitutional Future

Wednesday 28 April 2021 · 2 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • Ministerial discussions with the Scottish Government cover various constitutional matters including devolution commitments.
  • Neale Hanvey inquired about potential leadership in Scottish independence negotiations post-election.
  • Response indicated skepticism about Hanvey's assumptions regarding election outcomes.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Neale Hanvey
Scotland
Context

Discussions about Scotland's constitutional future are ongoing and involve various governmental levels. The question seeks details on recent discussions with the Scottish Government.

Question

What recent discussions has he had with the Scottish Government on Scotland's constitutional future?

Answer from Iain Stewart

The UK Government work with the Scottish Government on a range of constitutional matters, including delivering on our devolution commitments through the Scotland Act order programme. A more relevant question would be to inquire about discussions his new party has had with the First Minister regarding an unnecessary and divisive further referendum on separation.

Not addressed: Recent discussions on Scotland's constitutional future

How: Changing Subject, Personal Attack

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Q2 Neale Hanvey
Scotland
Context

Following upcoming elections, there is speculation about the possibility of Scotland initiating negotiations for independence. The question aims to clarify who would lead these talks if such a situation arises.

Question

When Scotland opens negotiations for independence following the election of a supermajority on 6 May, will those talks be led by the Secretary of State or the Minister for the Union—should, of course, he still be in post by that time?

Answer from Iain Stewart

The hon. Gentleman is being presumptuous about the outcome of the elections next week. The people of Scotland might be more interested in keeping pandemic protections, helping businesses recover, and ensuring children catch up on missed education over the past year.

Not addressed: Who would lead negotiations for Scottish independence if they occur

How: Changing Subject, Personal Attack

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