Oral Answers to Questions

Bill Grant Excerpts

Wednesday 20th February 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mel Stride]

My hon. Friend is entirely right. Increasing investment in Scotland is not about promoting Scottish independence; it is about promoting Scottish products and business. We froze duty on whisky at the last Budget —whisky itself represents about 20% of all the food and drink sales from the United Kingdom. We will stand behind that and other Scottish exports.

[Bill Grant (Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock) (Con)]

9. What recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on the welfare of Scottish veterans.

[Chris Davies (Brecon and Radnorshire) (Con)]

11. What recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on the welfare of Scottish veterans.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (David Mundell)]

As members of the ministerial covenant and veterans board, the Secretary of State for Defence and I have worked closely together and with the devolved Administrations on the ambitious UK-wide veterans strategy, encompassing devolved areas, including housing, education and mental health, to address the needs of veterans in all parts of the UK, including Scotland.

[Bill Grant]

My right hon. Friend will be aware that, sadly, some veterans may find themselves homeless. What engagement has he had with the Scottish Government and local authorities in Scotland to help resolve this matter?

[David Mundell]

My hon. Friend will be aware that housing is a devolved area and the responsibility of the Scottish Government. However, the UK Government support the veterans gateway, which, among other things, provides advice to veterans on housing and accommodation in Scotland and across the UK.