Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Davies Excerpts

Wednesday 20th February 2019 Commons Chamber

[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.

[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.

[Chris Davies]

Does my right hon. Friend agree that the first ever UK-wide veterans strategy is a fantastic example of the significant collaboration that occurs every day between the UK and the Scottish Government?

[David Mundell]

Yes, indeed—I am very happy to confirm that. Although we see a lot of politicking in this Chamber and in Holyrood, the fact is that on a day-to-day basis the Scottish Government, the UK Government and indeed the Welsh Assembly Government can work productively together.