Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Michael Moore and Simon Hart

Wednesday 14th September 2011 Commons Chamber

[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.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore)]

I have regular discussions with my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister on a range of issues, and last week the Government announced the steps that we are taking to establish a commission on the West Lothian question.

--- Later in debate ---

[Simon Hart]

Does the Secretary of State share my view that resolving the West Lothian question would not, in fact, damage the Union?

[Michael Moore]

We now have an opportunity to consider carefully the issues that were first so famously posed back in 1977. As devolution has developed over recent years, the need to address these issues has become more urgent. We are keen for that to be done, which is why we are the first Government to set up a commission to look at the issues, and we look forward to its getting on with its work.