Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Artificial Intelligence: Scotland

Wednesday 9 July 2025 · 1 question

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

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Kenneth Stevenson asked the Minister about discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the future of artificial intelligence in Scotland.
  • The Minister praised Kenneth Stevenson for his advocacy and commitment to his community.
  • The Minister commented on the Scottish Government's stance on AI in comparison to the UK Government's approach.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Kenneth Stevenson Lab Airdrie and Shotts
Context

The MP references the UK Government's commitment to AI investment compared to the Scottish government's stance on digital technology, specifically mentioning issues with an NHS app.

Question

What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the future of artificial intelligence in Scotland. It is refreshing to have a UK Government so committed to investing in and developing AI, in comparison with John Swinney and the Scottish Government, who are stuck in an analogue age, unable even to provide patients and staff with a functioning NHS app. Does the Minister agree that the towns of Airdrie and Shotts and the former industrial heartland of North Lanarkshire are incredibly well placed to serve as an AI growth zone and capture the Government’s clear ambition?

Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)

Much like my hon. Friend, who is a truly passionate advocate for his community, I am proud to represent one of Scotland’s industrial heartlands. He is right to highlight the role that they can play in Scotland’s AI future. As for his comments regarding the First Minister, my right hon. Friend the Health Secretary was particularly astute in his assessment. I am afraid that the First Minister is from the age of “Taggart”, when what is upon us is the age of “Dept. Q”.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific issue about discussions with Cabinet colleagues and positioning for an AI growth zone was not directly addressed.

How: Changing The Subject To Criticize The First Minister

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