Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Stephens Excerpts

Wednesday 11th January 2023 Commons Chamber

[John Lamont]

I know the hon. Member and the SNP have historically been anti-trade, but this Government are unquestionably committed to expanding trade opportunities for Scotland. Trade continues to grow, trade continues to be an opportunity for the Scottish economy and trade creates jobs for Scotland.

[Chris Stephens (Glasgow South West) (SNP)]

4. What recent assessment he has made of the impact of increases in (a) inflation and (b) the cost of living on Scotland.

[Ms Anum Qaisar (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP)]

7. What recent assessment he has made of the impact of increases in (a) inflation and (b) the cost of living on Scotland.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (John Lamont)]

Like many countries around the world, the UK faces the dual challenge of a recession and high inflation. That is why the Prime Minister has made tackling inflation a key priority. As outlined in the Chancellor’s autumn statement, this Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable households across the United Kingdom with £12 billion of direct support in 2023-24. Alongside this, the energy price guarantee is saving a typical household in Scotland £900 this winter.

[Chris Stephens]

I thank the Minister for his response. He will know that, in contrast to the UK energy resources that were privatised under previous Conservative Administrations, France’s publicly owned company can cap energy prices at 4% and Germany has cut VAT on energy to 7%. May I ask him what representations he has made to Government colleagues about following European examples and preventing costs going up at source, saving money for people, businesses and taxpayers?

[John Lamont]

This Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable in Scotland through this inflationary crisis with the extra support that is going to the Scottish Government—the record-breaking block grant, together with £1.5 billion of additional funding through the Barnett consequentials. That is on top of the energy support packages that have been put in place by this Government. This compassionate Conservative Government will continue to work to support the most vulnerable in Scotland and across the United Kingdom.