Oral Answers to Questions

John Stevenson Excerpts

Wednesday 26th November 2014 Commons Chamber

[David Mundell]

It is the hon. Lady who needs to apologise. Anyone watching this exchange would think that there had been were prosecutions under the previous Government. There were absolutely none. If she wants to get her facts right, I can tell her that three companies have been named and shamed in Scotland. They are Sun Shack Ltd in Hamilton, Cargilfield School Ltd in Edinburgh and Perth Hotels Ltd in Perth. If she has the details of additional people who are not receiving the minimum wage, rather than political point-scoring in this House, she should take their details to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs so that their employers can be dealt with.

[John Stevenson (Carlisle) (Con)]

4. When he expects the Smith commission to publish its report; and what steps are planned to implement its findings.

[Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con)]

6. When he expects the Smith commission to publish its report; and what steps are planned to implement its findings.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr Alistair Carmichael)]

Lord Smith is expected to publish his heads of agreement soon. In accordance with the timetable, this Government will produce draft clauses by 25 January. I shall, of course, with your assistance, Mr Speaker, endeavour to keep the House informed of all developments.

[John Stevenson]

I was delighted that the people of Scotland voted to keep Carlisle at the centre of the United Kingdom. Does the Minister agree that it is vital that we fulfil the commitments made to Scotland and ensure that there is a tight but sensible timetable to bring these commitments to law?

[Mr Carmichael]

I could not agree more. The commitment was made in all good faith and solemnity by the party leaders during the referendum campaign. It will be kept according to the timetable previously outlined.