Oral Answers to Questions

John Bercow Excerpts

Wednesday 8th January 2014 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

I can give my hon. Friend the assurance he seeks. We should keep the cap on economic migrants from outside the European Union. We should continue with all the action that we are taking to make sure that people who come here do so to work and not to claim, but I think what we need to do next is recognise that the best immigration policy is to have not only strong border controls but an education approach that educates our young people for jobs in our country and a welfare system that encourages them to take those jobs. There are three sides to the argument: it is about immigration, education and welfare, and the Government have a plan for all three.

[Mr Speaker]

Last but not least, I call Ian Davidson.

[Mr Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West) (Lab/Co-op)]

Could I agree with the Prime Minister—[Interruption.] It is genuinely absurd that the leader of the no campaign in Scotland cannot get a debate with the leader of the yes campaign in Scotland, and that the leader of the yes campaign in Scotland demands a debate with somebody who does not have a vote. [Interruption.] In these circumstances, does the Prime Minister agree with me that, in politics as in shipbuilding, empty vessels make the most noise?

--- Later in debate ---

[Several hon. Members]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order.

[Mr Tom Clarke (Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill) (Lab)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

The right hon. Gentleman will have to raise his point of order after the statement.