Transition Period UK-EU Relations 2020-11-12
2020-11-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Discussions on the end of transition period are crucial as no agreement has been reached yet.
What recent discussions have had with Scottish Government Ministers on preparations for the end of the transition period in the event of no agreement on the UK's future relations with the EU?
I and other Ministers have regular discussions with representatives of the Scottish Government and also other devolved Administrations to ensure that we can be prepared across the United Kingdom for the challenges we face as we end the transition period and the opportunities that will follow.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific details about discussions or preparations regarding no agreement scenario.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Scottish Government has been excluded from details of the UK shared prosperity fund despite proximity to the end of transition period.
A shared prosperity fund is by its very name inclusive. Why then, given the proximity to the end of transition, are not just Scottish businesses but the Scottish Government excluded from its details?
The Scottish Government, unlike the hon. Member, will not be in the dark about the future of the UK shared prosperity fund. He is absolutely right to draw attention to the fact that outside the European Union, we will be able to take back control of the billions that currently we give to the European Union, and we can invest that money in our shared priorities—for example, making sure that his constituents in East Lothian are better connected digitally, by rail and by other means to other parts of the United Kingdom, so they can enjoy the shared prosperity that comes from a strong United Kingdom working for all.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not explain why Scottish Government is excluded from details.
Discussed Unrelated Benefits
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Leaked Cabinet papers revealed that the Government hid Brexit plans from devolved Governments, affecting state aid and food supply availability.
We now know, through leaked Cabinet papers, that this Tory Government hid their Brexit plans from devolved Governments, including on state aid and food supply availability. How does the Minister expect these Governments to prepare when those crucial details are blocked from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland? Does he agree that this level of ignorance and contempt is helping to deliver record levels of support for independence and a consistent majority over the last 12 polls in a row?
I have no secrets from the hon. Gentleman. We take an open-book approach to our preparations for leaving the European Union, which is why, later today, the Cabinet Sub-Committee that deals with the preparations—
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not address how devolved Governments can prepare without details.
Discussed Future Disclosure
Response accuracy