Context
The question arises from the economic disparity between the south-east of England and regions like the south-west of Scotland and Northern Ireland. The background highlights a 12-mile stretch of water between Scotland and Northern Ireland which acts as a barrier to business cooperation.
Question
Whether he is taking steps to promote co-operation between businesses in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The economic powerhouse of the United Kingdom is usually centred in the south-east, to the detriment of regions like the south-west of Scotland and Northern Ireland. Will he do more to ensure that this small 12-mile stretch of water between Scotland and Northern Ireland is bridged in business terms by greater co-operation and expansion opportunities for people on either side?
Answer from John Lamont
The UK Government have taken action to make trade between Scotland and Northern Ireland easier. The UK Government have committed to providing funding for targeted improvements to the A75, which will provide better links between Cairnryan ferry terminals serving Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland, benefiting businesses on both sides of the north channel. I fully recognise the strong economic ties between south Scotland and Northern Ireland and look forward to working with him to enhance these links.
Not addressed: The specific ask about bridging the 12-mile stretch in business terms was not directly addressed, despite acknowledging the potential for enhanced economic ties.
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