Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Scotland Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Harriett Baldwin Excerpts
Wednesday 22nd June 2011

(13 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Michael Moore Portrait Michael Moore
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The hon. Gentleman should take up the issue with the hon. Gentleman himself. In this House, we do not challenge one another’s honour or otherwise. It is a matter for the hon. Gentleman to raise as he will. [Interruption.] I have made my position clear—it is important to be careful about our language and to debate the substance of the issues.

Harriett Baldwin Portrait Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con)
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3. What recent discussions he has had with the Deputy Prime Minister on establishing a commission on the West Lothian question.

Andrew Turner Portrait Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con)
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5. What recent discussions he has had with the Deputy Prime Minister on establishing a commission on the West Lothian question. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I have regular discussions with my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister on a range of issues. The Government remain committed to establishing a commission later this year to consider the West Lothian question. Does the Minister agree that timing is of the essence here? This is a difficult question and the commission will need to consider its recommendations, after which this House will need time to consider the outcome. It would be much better if this were done at a time of constitutional peace rather than at a time of constitutional crisis. I respect my hon. Friend’s passion on this subject. She, of course, has a Bill before the House that touches on these issues. I understand that it will be heard on the first Friday of the September sitting, which will give the whole House an opportunity to debate the issues. I will convey my hon. Friend’s call for urgency to the Deputy Prime Minister.