Oral Answers to Questions

Stephen Kinnock Excerpts

Wednesday 2nd February 2022 Commons Chamber

[Iain Stewart]

I absolutely agree that the Borderlands growth deal is unique in that it straddles the border. The economic footprint of the region is incredibly important. Last year I held a meeting in Carlisle with local authority leaders and other stakeholders to discuss not just the growth deal, but how it can be the starting point for a proper economic partnership that straddles the border and delivers for my hon. Friend and his neighbouring constituencies.

[Stephen Kinnock (Aberavon) (Lab)]

3. What recent steps his Department has taken to help strengthen the Union.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr Alister Jack)]

This Government are committed to upholding and strengthening the United Kingdom. My Department works closely with our partners across Government and with Scottish stakeholders. This Government are delivering record investment in Scotland and are ensuring that the many benefits of the Union are shared across the United Kingdom.

[Stephen Kinnock]

The Leader of the House recently described the leader of the Scottish Conservatives as “a lightweight figure”. Does the Secretary of State believe that that comment helped to strengthen the Union?