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Scottish Affairs Committee in 2024-25 and Industrial Transition
05 February 2026
Lead MP
Elaine Stewart
Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock
Lab
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
Employment
Word Count: 1840
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Elaine Stewart raised concerns about scottish affairs committee in 2024-25 and industrial transition in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
Key Requests to Government:
The report concludes that future transitions must be grounded in practical commitments to support workers, retain skills, and ensure no community bears the burden alone.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The Committee has examined the dramatic change in Scotland’s industrial landscape over four decades, leading to major job losses and closures. The impact of poorly managed transitions includes high unemployment rates, poor health outcomes, and higher levels of economic inactivity in former coalfield areas.
Discussed skill loss issues, mentioning 800 young people unable to access college education due to lack of funding. Emphasised commitment from apprentices at BAE Systems and Babcock International.
Kirsteen Sullivan
Lab/Co-op
Bathgate and Linlithgow
Discussed legacy issues from deindustrialisation, noting one in six young people are not in education, employment or training. Mentioned devastating impacts on local communities when industries shut down.
Glasgow West
Highlighted the commitment of apprentices at BAE Systems and Babcock International, noting their enthusiasm for long-term careers in shipbuilding and submarine building.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Asked about the impact of the energy profits levy on businesses that upskill in his area.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.