Business of the House Debate

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Department: Leader of the House

Business of the House

Andrew Turner Excerpts
Thursday 11th September 2014

(10 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Hague of Richmond Portrait Mr Hague
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The decision next week is a matter for the people of Scotland, but its implications will be felt across the UK. We have a good record of devolving powers, as we have to Wales or, through the Localism Act 2011, to local authorities. We are a flexible and adaptable Union—that is one of the great strengths of the United Kingdom. That must take account of the people of England as well. As proposals come forward on Scotland over the coming months, there must be every opportunity to debate the implications for England.

Andrew Turner Portrait Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con)
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In view of the increased number of migrants both from the EU and from outside the EU in the past 12 months, may we have a debate on the subject and an explanation of why we are going in the opposite direction to the manifesto commitment?

Lord Hague of Richmond Portrait Mr Hague
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Net migration has fallen by a third since its peak and we have capped economic migration from outside the EU. My hon. Friend will welcome measures such as limiting EU jobseeker’s benefit to only six months, and removing entitlement to housing benefit. I am sure other hon. Members would welcome an opportunity to debate the matter. My hon. Friend may wish to seek such time from the Backbench Business Committee.