Scotland’s Economy
Debate between Jeevun Sandher and Martin McCluskeyWestminster Hall is an alternative Chamber for MPs to hold debates, named after the adjoining Westminster Hall.
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Martin McCluskey
I thank the hon Member for his intervention, and for the points he made about the importance of working together—not just between the UK and Scottish Governments, but across these islands. I will ensure that officials write to him on that point.
Our industrial strategy calls time on short-term economic policy making, and establishes a UK industrial council on a statutory footing, to provide expert advice and long-term thinking.
Dr Jeevun Sandher (Loughborough) (Lab)
Can my hon. Friend confirm that his industrial strategy—and indeed GB Energy and our clean energy revolution—are not merely theoretical? They are working practically in the United States, the fastest growing economy in the G7, and are creating jobs in those former industrial areas. Indeed, this Labour Government will help to bring that about in Scotland, creating good jobs in those areas that need it most.
Martin McCluskey
I welcome that comment from my hon. Friend, and also congratulate him on his election to the Treasury Committee, where I am sure he will make a great contribution. He has set out exactly what the plans the Government have set out will do for Scotland, and the aspirations and ambition of those plans for our country.
Returning to the UK industrial strategy council, this body will work with specialist sectoral taskforces, and bring together the expertise of businesses, academics, and trade unions to help drive economic growth in all parts of our country. That will allow us to build on Scotland’s strengths and huge potential in key sectors, including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, financial services, clean energy, defence, and creative industries—all areas where Scotland is already beginning to thrive. Together with the establishment of GB Energy in Aberdeen, which the hon. Member for Aberdeen North (Kirsty Blackman) highlighted in her speech, and the creation of a national wealth fund, we will bring investment, jobs, and growth to Scotland.