Scottish Independence and the Scottish Economy

David Linden Excerpts

Wednesday 2nd November 2022 Commons Chamber

[Ian Murray]

I agree. I will be happy to correct the record if I am wrong, but I think the highest poverty rates among children in Scotland are in the First Minister’s constituency, Glasgow Southside. If its rate is not the highest, it is certainly very close to the top.

[David Linden (Glasgow East) (SNP)]

Will the shadow Secretary of State give way?

[Ian Murray]

I am happy to give way. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will tell us about the poverty rates in Glasgow.

[David Linden]

The poverty rates in Glasgow are far too high, but that is because of the Tory Government who are controlling the economy: 85% of welfare spending is controlled by this place.

The shadow Secretary of State talks about the turgid record of the Conservative party. As we approach a general election, people will want to see the big difference that Scottish Labour MPs would make. What would be the biggest difference in immigration policy and Brexit policy, for example?

--- Later in debate ---

[David Linden]

rose—

[John Lamont]

If the hon. Member can tell me why we should be having a referendum now rather than dealing with the cost of living crisis, the failing education system in Scotland, the NHS backlog in Scotland and the lack of funding for local authorities, I will happily take an intervention from him.

[David Linden]

If the Minister’s party can change party leaders in seven weeks, why cannot the people of Scotland revisit this question more than seven years later?

[John Lamont]

I am grateful for that intervention. I clearly remember taking part in the 2014 referendum, when we were promised by those in the yes campaign that it would be a once-in-a-generation opportunity—

Owen Thompson claimed to move the closure (Standing Order No. 36).

Question put forthwith, That the Question be now put.

Question agreed to.

Main Question accordingly put.