Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Bowie Excerpts

Wednesday 16th March 2022 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jack]

Quite simply, we are not going to take any lessons on defending devolution from a party that wants to destroy it.

[Andrew Bowie (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) (Con)]

This morning, as ever, we have heard a lot from the SNP about respecting the Scottish Parliament and ignoring the Scottish Parliament. Does my right hon. Friend agree that it is the height of disrespect for the permanent secretary of the Scottish Government, who remains accountable to the UK Cabinet Secretary and draws a six-figure salary, to refuse to appear in front of a Committee of the Scottish Parliament without giving a reasonable excuse as to why?

[Mr Jack]

I agree with my hon. Friend that reciprocal respect absolutely underpins the devolution settlement. As to the permanent secretary’s decision not to appear in front of the Committee, that is entirely a matter for her.