Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Mundell and Angela Watkinson

Wednesday 14th January 2015 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

I do not accept the premise of an increase. The Scottish Government’s most recent report stated that we should not take a snapshot and should instead look at indications over a longer period. I agree with the hon. Member for Glasgow East (Margaret Curran) on one point, however: we have to see closer working together by the United Kingdom Government, the Scottish Government, local authorities and the third sector. That is the best way to achieve a reduction in child poverty.

[Dame Angela Watkinson (Hornchurch and Upminster) (Con)]

3. What assessment he has made of the potential effect on businesses in Scotland of the removal of the requirement for employers to pay national insurance contributions in respect of employees under the age of 21 and apprentices under the age of 25.