Oral Answers to Questions

Martin Docherty-Hughes Excerpts

Wednesday 22nd February 2023 Commons Chamber

The Secretary of State was asked—

[Martin Docherty-Hughes (West Dunbartonshire) (SNP)]

1. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill on Scotland.

[Gavin Newlands (Paisley and Renfrewshire North) (SNP)]

11. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill on Scotland.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Speaker]

Order. May I just say to the Secretary of State that Scottish questions are short enough without his taking up all the time?

[Martin Docherty-Hughes]

I thank the governor-general for that long-winded response.

According to a report by the Economics for the Environment Consultancy, lower standards just in chemical regulation, water pollution, air quality and the protection of habitats will cost the British Government £83 billion over the next three decades. Does the Secretary of State believe it is right for Scotland to face yet another billion-pound price tag for a Brexit that it did not vote for?

[Mr Jack]

I do not recognise that analysis. We are respecting and raising environmental standards. Where matters are devolved we respect that, and the Scottish Government are able to deal with those matters under retained EU law as they see fit. Where there is overlap, we have frameworks and we will work together.