Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ian Paisley and David Mundell

Wednesday 10th June 2015 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

I particularly welcome the hon. Gentleman to his place because he is my neighbouring MP, but I do not share his analysis. The most unhelpful contribution to policing in Stranraer and surrounding areas was the Scottish Government’s decision to get rid of Dumfries and Galloway police force, against the wishes of local people.

[Ian Paisley (North Antrim) (DUP)]

What efforts is the Secretary of State making to ensure that the illicit trade in cigarettes, other contraband and oils through these ports is tackled effectively, so that the criminals behind it can be stamped out once and for all?

[David Mundell]

I am happy to confirm that I will raise those specific issues in my next discussions with the Chief Constable of Police Scotland.

Scotland Bill

Debate between Ian Paisley and David Mundell

Monday 8th June 2015 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

I have heard the hon. Gentleman make his points before. The facts of the matter are that the SNP took part in the Smith commission after the referendum, signed up to a package of measures set out in the commission’s report and then, during the election, argued that its MPs would come to this Parliament to ensure that it was delivered.

[Ian Paisley (North Antrim) (DUP)]

Can the Secretary of State outline whether any of the fiscal arrangements that will be changed as a result of the Bill will affect Northern Ireland in any way?

[David Mundell]

It will clearly be the case that the Scottish Parliament will have significantly greater powers over income tax and welfare than it has now, but the Scottish Parliament is currently able to introduce policies that are significantly different from policies that are adopted in Northern Ireland. That is the nature of devolution and the devolution settlement.

[Ian Paisley]

I will put it the way a Ballymena man would: how much will it affect Northern Ireland?

[David Mundell]

It will depend on the policies that are pursued in the Scottish Parliament. For example, were my colleague Ruth Davidson to become First Minister of Scotland, we would see taxes reduced in Scotland, which I think would have a positive effect in Northern Ireland, because it would be an incentive to see business done in a compatible manner. But devolution is about taking decisions in the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Assembly and the Northern Ireland Assembly, and increasingly in different parts of England.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ian Paisley and David Mundell

Wednesday 9th January 2013 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

I can advise the right hon. Gentleman that I have met Aberdeenshire council to discuss exactly that issue. Although superfast broadband is welcome in Aberdeen, we want it rolled out into Aberdeenshire as well.

[Ian Paisley (North Antrim) (DUP)]

The use of superfast broadband is of course one effective way to promote the identity of our country. Will the Minister welcome to Parliament today the Ulster-Scots Agency? It is promoting the links between Ulster and Scotland, of which the Secretary of State is a wonderful example as a born Ulsterman who is now serving Scotland. Will the Minister use superfast broadband to continue to promote our wonderful culture and shared Ulster and Unionist heritage?

[David Mundell]

The Secretary of State is a wonderful example of many things, and the answer is yes. [Interruption.]