Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about recent talks between the Chancellor and himself regarding upcoming budgetary matters for Scotland.
What recent discussions has he had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the forthcoming Budget?
I have regular discussions with all my Cabinet colleagues on issues important to Scotland's economy, including the forthcoming Budget in March. The Government will deliver a Budget for Scotland's businesses and Scotland's people. We will set out ambitious plans to unleash Britain's potential and level up across the nations and regions of the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific details on discussions with Chancellor, only general statement about upcoming budget
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the Minister's stance on supporting a freeport at Carlisle Lake District airport, considering its economic ties to northern England.
Given the close economic relationship between the south of Scotland and the north of England, particularly within the borderlands region, will he make representations to the Chancellor on and give his support to a freeport at the Carlisle Lake District airport?
I welcome the recent freeports announcement, and I have no doubt that freeports will unleash the potential of our proud historic ports, boosting and regenerating communities across the UK. I and other Ministers on the Front Bench—the Chancellor is here—have heard my hon. Friend's early representations on behalf of his airport and his area. Not only is he a great champion for the borderlands, but he is a great champion for the Carlisle Lake District airport.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment to support freeport at Carlisle Lake District airport
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the allocation of Barnett consequentials to Scotland related to HS2 spending, amounting to roughly £750 million.
Page 64 of the 2015 statement of funding policy document confirms that HS2 should have 100% Barnett consequentials for Scotland. Will he ask for those Barnett consequentials, roughly £750 million in relation to what is being spent on HS2, to be delivered in the Budget?
There already has been a Barnett consequential relating to HS2 spending. In the next spending round, we will see what money is allocated to the Department for Transport. That money will have a Barnett consequential.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment to request Barnett consequentials in the upcoming budget
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about provisions to help the Scotch whisky industry compete internationally, particularly impacted by US tariffs.
Over the weekend, Kingsbarns distillery in my constituency won the “Best Lowlands Scotch, 12 years and Under” award at the world whisky awards. However, the impact of US tariffs continues to impede the growth of the Scotch whisky industry in my constituency and across Scotland. Will the forthcoming Budget include provisions to help our distilleries to compete internationally, despite those stifling tariffs?
I know that the hon. Lady has a lot of experience of this, having formerly worked for Diageo. The 25% tariffs on malt whisky are a consequence of the Boeing-Airbus dispute between the EU and the USA. In the next carousel, by having useful negotiations on a US trade deal, we want to get those tariffs removed.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific budgetary provisions mentioned to help whisky distilleries affected by tariffs
Response accuracy