Oral Answers to Questions

Helen Hayes Excerpts

Wednesday 6th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

I think I have set out clearly how I see the way forward on these matters, and it lies with the Scottish Government and the UK Government working as closely as they possibly can together. That is the way we will get the best possible arrangements for Scotland. The message from business leaders I met yesterday was that we need a Team UK approach to get that deal for Scotland.

[Helen Hayes (Dulwich and West Norwood) (Lab)]

7. What discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Ministers of the Scottish Government on the devolution and implementation of social security powers.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (David Mundell)]

I am committed to working with the Scottish Government to ensure a safe and secure transfer of welfare powers. I met Scottish Ministers in the joint ministerial working group on welfare on 16 June. We had a constructive meeting and issued a joint communiqué about our discussions.

[Helen Hayes]

What assurances can the Secretary of State give that Scotland will be no worse off with the devolution of new social security powers?

[David Mundell]

I certainly hope that individuals in Scotland will be no worse off. Inevitably, the devolution of these powers means that specific decisions about their use will be made by the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government. The amount of certain payments and their shape and nature will be matters for them.