Oral Answers to Questions

John Stevenson Excerpts

Wednesday 14th September 2011 Commons Chamber

[John Stevenson (Carlisle) (Con)]

10. What recent discussions he has had with the Deputy Prime Minister on establishing a commission on the West Lothian question.

[Simon Hart (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire) (Con)]

11. What recent discussions he has had with the Deputy Prime Minister on establishing a commission on the West Lothian question.

--- Later in debate ---

[Michael Moore]

The commission will not give specific consideration to the Barnett formula, or to funding arrangements around the United Kingdom. We have made a separate commitment within the coalition agreement to look at all those matters when we have achieved our primary objective of sorting out the public finances.

[John Stevenson]

Will the Minister confirm that the commission will consider the issue with regard not just to Scotland, but to the other devolved Assemblies in Wales and Northern Ireland? [Interruption.]

[Michael Moore]

May I ask my hon. Friend to repeat the first part of his question?

[Mr Speaker]

That rather reinforces my point that there is far too much noise in the Chamber, which is very discourteous. The hon. Gentleman should repeat his question.

[John Stevenson]

Will the Minister confirm that the commission will consider the issue with regard not just to Scotland, but to the other devolved Assemblies in Wales and Northern Ireland?

[Michael Moore]

I am happy to confirm that although it is called the West Lothian commission, it will look at all the relevant issues regarding all parts of the United Kingdom.