Scottish Referendum Legislation: Supreme Court Decision

Alun Cairns Excerpts

Wednesday 23rd November 2022 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jack]

As I have pointed out, it is not the case that a majority of the Scottish electorate have voted for independence-supporting parties.

[Alun Cairns (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con)]

I welcome the clarity of the judgment by the Supreme Court. Does my right hon. Friend share my concern that the constant political wrangling and doubts over Scotland’s constitutional status and the capacity for and prospect of holding a referendum will constantly undermine Scotland’s attractiveness to private investors, who would create the jobs, wealth and prosperity that people in Scotland rightly deserve?

[Mr Jack]

Yes. Having been a businessman before I came into this place, I agree with my right hon. Friend. It is unattractive to investors when there is uncertainty and a cloud hanging over Scotland on this matter. Far better the Scottish Government put it behind them now—the ruling is very clear—and we move forward to building the Scottish economy for the benefit of all the people in Scotland.