Scotland Office

The Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland supports the Secretary of State in promoting the best interests of Scotland within a stronger United Kingdom. It ensures Scottish interests are fully and effectively represented at the heart of the UK Government, and the UK Government’s responsibilities are fully and effectively represented in Scotland.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland

Conservative
Lord Keen of Elie (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Advocate-General for Scotland
Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Lord Bruce of Bennachie (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Scotland)
Christine Jardine (LD - Edinburgh West)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Scotland)

Conservative
Andrew Bowie (Con - West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine)
Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Cameron of Lochiel (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Scotland)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Kirsty McNeill (LAB - Midlothian)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
Baroness Smith of Cluny (Lab - Life peer)
Advocate General for Scotland
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Wednesday 4th December 2024
Oral Answers to Questions
Oral Questions
Select Committee Docs
Wednesday 20th November 2024
09:30
Select Committee Inquiry
Thursday 28th November 2024
GB Energy and the net zero transition

The Committee will be investigating the transition to net zero in Scotland’s energy sector, and how the UK Government can …

Written Answers
Wednesday 4th December 2024
Defence: Scotland
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help create defence …
Secondary Legislation
Wednesday 13th September 2017
Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2018
The Order makes provision in consequence of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016 (“the 2016 Act”).
Bills
Thursday 28th May 2015
Dept. Publications
Friday 20th September 2024
16:29

Scotland Office Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Dec. 04
Oral Questions
Jul. 18
Adjournment Debate
View All Scotland Office Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

Scotland Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Scotland Office has not passed any Acts during the 2024 Parliament

Scotland Office - Secondary Legislation

The Order makes provision in consequence of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016 (“the 2016 Act”).
View All Scotland Office Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Trending Petitions
Petitions with most signatures
Scotland Office has not participated in any petition debates
View All Scotland Office Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Scottish Affairs Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Scottish Affairs Committee
Patricia Ferguson Portrait
Patricia Ferguson (Labour - Glasgow West)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 12th September 2024
Jack Rankin Portrait
Jack Rankin (Conservative - Windsor)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Harriet Cross Portrait
Harriet Cross (Conservative - Gordon and Buchan)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Kirsteen Sullivan Portrait
Kirsteen Sullivan (Labour (Co-op) - Bathgate and Linlithgow)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Elaine Stewart Portrait
Elaine Stewart (Labour - Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Susan Murray Portrait
Susan Murray (Liberal Democrat - Mid Dunbartonshire)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Douglas McAllister Portrait
Douglas McAllister (Labour - West Dunbartonshire)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Angus MacDonald Portrait
Angus MacDonald (Liberal Democrat - Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Lillian Jones Portrait
Lillian Jones (Labour - Kilmarnock and Loudoun)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Maureen Burke Portrait
Maureen Burke (Labour - Glasgow North East)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Stephen Flynn Portrait
Stephen Flynn (Scottish National Party - Aberdeen South)
Scottish Affairs Committee Member since 4th November 2024
Scottish Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
Renewable energy in Scotland Access to cash in Scotland Impact of closure of City Link on employment Coronavirus and Scotland My Scottish Affairs 2020 Devolution of welfare in Scotland inquiry The EU Referendum and its impact on Scotland inquiry The demography of Scotland and the implications for devolution inquiry The renewable energy sector in Scotland inquiry Revising Scotland's fiscal framework inquiry English Votes for English Laws inquiry Scotland's place in Europe inquiry Sustainable employment in Scotland inquiry Sustainable employment in Scotland inquiry European Union (Withdrawal) Bill: Implications for devolution inquiry Work of the Scotland Office inquiry My Scottish Affairs inquiry Immigration and Scotland inquiry Digital connectivity in Scotland inquiry Impact of HMRC's reorganisation in Scotland inquiry Scotland and the High North inquiry Jobcentre Plus closures in Scotland one-off session Inter-governmental co-operation on social security inquiry Welfare policy in Scotland inquiry Access to Financial Services inquiry Problem drug use in Scotland inquiry Immigration and Scotland: follow-up inquiry The work of the Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland inquiry Fisheries Bill hearing City Region Deals inquiry BBC Scotland inquiry The relationship between the UK and Scottish Governments inquiry The future of Scottish agriculture post-Brexit inquiry RBS branch closures inquiry Delivery charges in Scotland inquiry Scotland and Brexit: Trade and Foreign Investment inquiry ATM Network in Scotland inquiry The future of the oil and gas industry inquiry Video Games Industry in Scotland Postal Services in Scotland Supporting Scotland's Economy Scotland Bill Health and safety in Scotland Crown Estate in Scotland UK Border Agency and Glasgow City Council A Robust Grid for 21st Century Scotland Impact of the Bedroom Tax and other changes to housing benefit in Scotland inquiry Power Outages in the West of Scotland Land Reform in Scotland Zero-Hours Contracts inquiry Remploy Marine Fife The Referendum on Separation for Scotland inquiry Blacklisting in employment Crown Estate in Scotland: Follow-up Scotland Office Annual Report 2013-14 Our Borderlands - Our Future Compliance with the National Minimum Wage in Scotland Post study work schemes inquiry Work of the Scottish Affairs Committee Creative industries in Scotland inquiry English Votes for English Laws inquiry Scotland Office Annual Report and Accounts and the work of the Scotland Office inquiry Telecommunications in Rural Scotland Sports Direct: employment practices and the sale of USC inquiry The Smith Commission: Proposals for further Devolution to Scotland Welfare policy in Scotland Promoting Scotland internationally Firearms licensing regulations in Scotland Cost of living: impact on rural communities in Scotland Coronavirus and Scotland follow-up Science and Scotland Scotland's space sector Intergovernmental relations: 25 years since the Scotland Act 1998 Intergovernmental Relations: The Civil Service City Region and Growth Deals The Financing of the Scottish Government GB Energy and the net zero transition Scotland and the Shared Prosperity Fund Access to Financial Services The future of Scottish agriculture post-Brexit BBC Scotland Scotland and Brexit: Trade and Foreign Investment Fisheries Bill Immigration and Scotland: follow-up Immigration and Scotland The work of the Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland The future of the oil and gas industry Problem drug use in Scotland The relationship between the UK and Scottish Governments Welfare in Scotland Welfare policy in Scotland

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

28th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of changes to alcohol duties on Scotch whisky at the Autumn Budget 2024 on the Government’s plans for Brand Scotland.

I am proud to champion Scotland’s products and services, including whisky, globally through Brand Scotland. I have just returned from a visit to South East Asia where I was pleased to support the Scotch Whisky industry at a range of meetings with industry and Government in this key market. 90% of Scotch Whisky is already exported and therefore pays no duty. Increases on duty are in line with inflation and under the previous Government, duty was increased by 10.1% following the duty review. This does not detract from my support of the industry and I will continue to work closely with it to maximise opportunities and growth through Brand Scotland.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
26th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent progress he has made with Cabinet colleagues on the green energy transition in Scotland.

I have been working closely with my cabinet colleagues to achieve our clean energy Mission.

Scotland has a huge role to play, not least through GB Energy - headquartered in Aberdeen and backed with £8.3bn. It will work to deliver clean energy, lower bills, and bring the jobs of the future to all parts of Scotland.

This is on top of the largest ever Contracts for Difference round and the National Wealth Fund, which will mobilise billions into our world-leading clean energy industries.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
26th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent progress he has made with Cabinet colleagues on the green energy transition in Scotland.

I have been working closely with my cabinet colleagues to achieve our clean energy Mission.

Scotland has a huge role to play, not least through GB Energy - headquartered in Aberdeen and backed with £8.3bn. It will work to deliver clean energy, lower bills, and bring the jobs of the future to all parts of Scotland.

This is on top of the largest ever Contracts for Difference round and the National Wealth Fund, which will mobilise billions into our world-leading clean energy industries.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
26th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help create defence jobs in Scotland.

Scotland’s defence industry is vital to the UK’s security and economy. The newly published Defence Industrial Strategy is clear that this government will prioritise UK-based defence firms, including those in Scotland.

As part of Brand Scotland, I have been promoting the Scottish defence industry in Norway and in South-East Asia, where I visited HMS Spey, constructed by BAE Systems on the Clyde.

I welcome the announcement by BAE Systems that they will be investing £1 billion in education and skills across the UK, which will lead to more than 200 jobs in Glasgow.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
26th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on the potential impact of recent changes to the Winter Fuel Payment on pensioners in Scotland.

This Government is supporting pensioners through increasing pension credit uptake and protecting the triple lock. This means an increase in the state pension for a million Scottish pensioners of up to £470 next year, on top of up to £900 this year.

This year marks twenty five years since the previous Labour Government delivered devolution in Scotland, one of its proudest achievements. I understand the SNP Government plans to use some of their record budget settlement to make different choices on this devolved policy area - that’s devolution in action. The Honourable Gentleman may wish to ask himself how he can justify voting against Scotland getting that record settlement.

Kirsty McNeill
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
25th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps his Department is taking to help North Sea workers to transition to green economy jobs in Scotland.

Scotland’s world class offshore oil and gas workers should be at the forefront of the race to clean power.

The UK Government is partnering with the Scottish Government, Offshore Energies UK, Renewable UK, OPITO, Global Wind Organisation (GWO) and other key industry stakeholders to deliver a skills passport for the clean energy transition in Scotland. This will help workers transition from carbon-intensive industries to clean energy sectors.

Our goal to become a clean energy superpower will create hundreds of thousands of new jobs, many of which I am pleased to say will be based in Scotland. With GB Energy also headquartered in Aberdeen, Scotland and the Northeast will be at the heart of the UK energy sector.

Kirsty McNeill
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
25th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions she has had with the Scottish Government on regional-specific skills development funds for workers transitioning from the oil and gas industry.

Scotland’s world class offshore oil and gas workers should be at the forefront of the race to clean power.

The UK Government is partnering with the Scottish Government to deliver a skills passport for oil and gas workers as part of the clean energy transition in Scotland. This will be delivered in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, including Offshore Energies UK, Renewable UK, OPITO, Global Wind Organisation (GWO).

Research from Offshore Energies UK shows that 90% of oil and gas workers have transferable skills for offshore renewable jobs. The development of this passport will help workers utilise their skills to play a vital role in the transition from carbon-intensive industries to clean energy sectors for workers across all regions of Scotland.

Kirsty McNeill
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
25th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether her Department is taking steps to increase the level of research and development funding offshore green energy projects in Scotland.

To achieve the UK Government’s Mission of becoming a clean energy superpower by 2030, the UK Government is establishing Great British Energy, an operationally independent company investing in and driving projects forward across all parts of the UK. The UK government will capitalise Great British Energy with £8.3billion of new money across this Parliament, with Scotland well-placed to benefit in terms of investment and the creation of high-quality jobs. This comes in addition to the record-breaking Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 6, which has committed £1.555 billion for investment in clean energy projects, including numerous offshore wind projects.

In her recent budget, the Chancellor announced a highest-ever £20.4bn investment in UK R&D to drive economic growth, and our clean energy and other missions.

Kirsty McNeill
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
22nd Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what plans he has to work with the Scottish Government to improve (a) rail and (b) bus routes in (i) Hamilton and Clyde Valley and (ii) Scotland.

Scotland Office ministers have regular meetings with the Deputy First Minister, where we discuss local economic growth as one of the key missions of this Government. Our two Governments effectively co-manage the successful Glasgow City Region Growth deal, which includes funding for infrastructure.

Both local and national rail and bus routes in Scotland are devolved, however, and therefore the responsibility of the Scottish Government.

Kirsty McNeill
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)
20th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether his Department has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on ensuring that bereaved families in Scotland are provided with a key worker to support them after the loss of a child.

The UK Government is committed to supporting those who have experienced the loss of a child through a range of reserved measures, including Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay and Leave.

My officials have regular discussions with their Scottish Government counterparts on a wide range of policy matters. Provision of social care for bereaved families is a devolved matter and my department stands ready to assist the Scottish Government to ensure this care is accessible to those who need it.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
18th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions his officials have had with Scottish Borders Council on funding of the feasibility study for the extension of the Borders Railway.

My officials have had discussions with the Scottish Borders Council and with officials from both the Department for Transport and the Scottish Government on the funding of the feasibility study for the extension of the Borders Railway.

The Department for Transport will continue to work with the Scotland Office, the Scottish Government and the Scottish Borders Council on the next stage of development for this scheme as part of the Borderlands Growth Deal.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
18th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Transport on funding of the feasibility study for the extension of the Borders Railway.

Officials from my department remain in discussion on this matter with counterparts in the Department for Transport. The Department for Transport will continue to work with the Scotland Office, the Scottish Government and the Scottish Borders Council on the next stage of development for this scheme as part of the Borderlands Growth Deal.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
18th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has with the Scottish Government on funding of the feasibility study for the Borders Railway extension.

I have regular meetings with the Deputy First Minister, where we discuss local economic growth as one of the key missions of this Government.

My officials have had discussions with the Scottish Borders Council and with officials from both the Department for Transport and the Scottish Government on the funding of the feasibility study for the extension of the Borders Railway as part of the Borderlands Growth Deal.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
18th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when the Scottish Seafood Industry Action Group will next meet.

The Scottish Seafood Industry Action Group last met under the previous Government, in March 2024. This government recognises the vital role these industries play in ensuring coastal communities and the wider Scottish economy thrive. Since taking up office in July 2024, Scotland Office Ministers have met with Salmon Scotland, the Scottish Fisherman’s Federation, Loch Long Salmon, and many others across the seafood and fisheries sectors. The UK government will continue to work closely with industry representative bodies on issues that impact the sector.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
18th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how often the Scottish Seafood Industry Action Group has met since 5 July 2024.

The Scottish Seafood Industry Action Group last met under the previous Government, in March 2024. This government recognises the vital role these industries play in ensuring coastal communities and the wider Scottish economy thrive. Since taking up office in July 2024, Scotland Office Ministers have met with Salmon Scotland, the Scottish Fisherman’s Federation, Loch Long Salmon, and many others across the seafood and fisheries sectors. The UK government will continue to work closely with industry representative bodies on issues that impact the sector.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
13th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what estimate his Department has made of the potential impact of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland on regional economic growth in the next three financial years.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation District for Scotland (AMIDS) is Scotland’s home of manufacturing innovation, and forms an integral part of the £1bn UK and Scottish Government funded Glasgow City Region Deal. AMIDS is home to two world-class innovation centres - the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland and the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

Since its establishment, AMIDS has already become home to world renowned names, including Boeing and Thermo Fisher, and with the landmark opening of the Renfrew Bridge, my department expects AMIDS to achieve even greater successes in delivering up to 10,000 new jobs across the River Clyde.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
11th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had recent discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the reintroduction of a (a) passenger and (b) freight service from Rosyth to mainland Europe.

I have not, but I am aware that you have written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on this matter in connection with infrastructure enhancements that may be required at the port of Rosyth.

This Government recognises the importance of upgrading our port infrastructure, and that is why we have created the National Wealth Fund, which will bring together key institutions and a compelling proposition for investors.

The National Wealth Fund is now open for engagement, and can be contacted via www.uknwf.org.uk.



Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
11th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had discussions on the reintroduction of a (a) passenger and (b) freight service from Rosyth to mainland Europe.

My officials have spoken with colleagues in the Department for Transport and the Treasury on this matter and I am aware of your campaigning on this issue.

This Government recognises the importance of upgrading our port infrastructure, and that is why we have created the National Wealth Fund, which will bring together key institutions and a compelling proposition for investors.

The National Wealth Fund is now open for engagement, and can be contacted via www.uknwf.org.uk.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of (a) increases to the Energy Profits Levy and (b) the abolition of the investment allowance on future trends of private investment in north east Scotland.

At Autumn Budget 2024, the government confirmed that from 1 November 2024, the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) rate would increase by 3 percentage points to 38%, the EPL investment allowance would be abolished and the EPL decarbonisation allowance rate would be adjusted to 66%. The government also confirmed an extension to the period the levy applies from 31 March 2029 until 31 March 2030. To support investment and jobs in current and future industries, the government decided to make no additional changes to the availability of capital allowances in the EPL.

The government has carefully considered the impact of the removal of the EPL’s investment allowance. HM Treasury publishes impacts in summary form for tax measures in tax information and impact notes (TIINs) alongside the Finance Bill. The summary of impacts from these changes to the EPL can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/energy-profits-levy-reforms-2024

The UK Government recognises that oil and gas will continue to have a role in the UK’s energy mix for decades to come. Nonetheless, public and private investment must be driven towards cleaner energy, including in the north east of Scotland. Money raised from changes to the Energy Profits Levy will be used to support the transition to clean energy, enhance energy security and provide sustainable jobs for the future. 

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of (a) increases to the Energy Profits Levy and (b) the abolition of the investment allowance on north east Scotland.

The UK Government recognises that oil and gas will continue to have a role in the UK’s energy mix for decades to come and is committed to managing the energy transition in a way that supports jobs in existing and future industries. But we require the sector to contribute to the ambition to make the UK a clean energy superpower.

At Autumn Budget 2024, the government confirmed that from 1 November 2024, the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) rate would increase by 3 percentage points to 38%, the EPL investment allowance would be abolished and the EPL decarbonisation allowance rate would be adjusted to 66%. The government also confirmed an extension to the period the levy applies from 31 March 2029 until 31 March 2030. To support jobs in future and existing industries, the government decided to make no additional changes to the availability of capital allowances in the EPL.

The government has carefully considered the impact of the removal of the EPL’s investment allowance. HM Treasury publishes impacts in summary form for tax measures in tax information and impact notes (TIINs) alongside the Finance Bill. The summary of impacts from these changes to the EPL can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/energy-profits-levy-reforms-2024

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed increases to the Energy Profits Levy on future employment levels in Scotland.

The UK Government recognises that oil and gas will continue to have a role in the UK’s energy mix for decades to come and is committed to managing the energy transition in a way that supports jobs in existing and future industries. But we require the sector to contribute to the ambition to make the UK a clean energy superpower.

At Autumn Budget 2024, the government confirmed that from 1 November 2024, the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) rate would increase by 3 percentage points to 38%, the EPL investment allowance would be abolished and the EPL decarbonisation allowance rate would be adjusted to 66%. The government also confirmed an extension to the period the levy applies from 31 March 2029 until 31 March 2030. To support jobs and provide certainty, the government decided to make no additional changes to the availability of capital allowances in the EPL.

The government has carefully considered the impact of the removal of the EPL’s investment allowance. HM Treasury publishes impacts in summary form for tax measures in tax information and impact notes (TIINs) alongside the Finance Bill. The summary of impacts from these changes to the EPL can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/energy-profits-levy-reforms-2024

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
11th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade to increase the value of exports of Scotch whisky per year.

Food and drink is a key strength of Scotland’s, and the Scotland Office and Department for Business and Trade are working closely on a range of shared priorities to increase the value of numerous Scottish exports.

Scotch whisky exports are being championed through the Brand Scotland initiative, and I will be in Malaysia and Singapore later this month to promote our first-class food and drinks exports to growing markets in Asia.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
11th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking to support Brand Scotland.

I am proud to champion Scotland’s interests globally through Brand Scotland. I have just returned from a successful visit to Norway and will be visiting South East Asia next week to promote Scottish trade, investment, and culture. Following the announcement of £750,000 for promoting Brand Scotland internationally next year, planning is underway to ensure the programme maximises opportunities for growth in Scotland.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the scotch whisky industry on barriers to business.

I meet regularly with the Scotch Whisky industry, and am pleased we can work closely on a range of shared priorities to support growth in the sector.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the increase in alcohol duty on scotch whisky exports.

90% of Scotch Whisky is already exported and therefore pays no duty. Increases on duty are in line with inflation and under the previous Government, duty was increased by 10.1% following the duty review.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of increases in the duty on non-draught alcohol on levels of employment in the scotch whisky industry.

Despite the previous government increasing duty by 10.1%, the Scotch Whisky industry employs 11,000 people directly in Scotland, 7,000 of whom work in rural areas. In addition, the industry supports a further 42,000 jobs across the UK, 36,000 of which are based in Scotland. Furthermore, the increases in duty are in line with inflation. I am confident that the sector will continue to offer excellent employment opportunities to people in Scotland, while remaining one of our most successful exports, for years to come.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of increases on the duty for non-draught alcohol on the scotch whisky industry.

The overall alcohol package within the recent Budget balances commercial pressure on the alcohol industry with the need to raise revenue to address the £22 Billion blackhole caused by the decisions of the previous government. Increases on duty are in line with inflation and under the previous Government, duty was increased by 10.1% following the duty review.

90% of Scotch Whisky is exported, paying no duty. To provide specific support to the Scotch Whisky industry, the government will reduce fees for geographical verification.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when he next plans to meet the Scotch Whisky Association.

I have had several meetings with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) in recent months, including during my first week in office, and am pleased to be working closely with them on a range of shared priorities.

I will be driving growth in Scotland around the world through the Brand Scotland initiative, and will work closely with the SWA to promote the UKs largest food and drink export across all four corners of the globe.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, with reference to paragraph 2.40 of the Autumn Budget 2024, HC 295, published on 30 October 2024, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of an increase in the rate of employers' National Insurance Contributions on (a) pubs and (b) small restaurants in Scotland.

This Government inherited a £22 billion black hole in the nation’s finances. The action we are taking in this Budget restores economic stability so we can invest in the future.

The government recognises the need to protect the smallest businesses, including small restaurants, which is why we have more than doubled the Employment Allowance to £10,500, meaning more than half of businesses with NICs liabilities either gain or see no change next year.

In addition, we are making business rates in England fairer to protect the high street. The Government will introduce permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties with rateable values less than £500,000, alongside 40% relief next year for RHL properties up to a cash cap of £110,000 per business. Business rates are devolved and the Scottish Government could support Scotland;s high streets by using some of the record budget settlement it received to match these reforms.

Also, to recognise the economic and cultural importance of pubs, and commitment to supporting smaller brewers, the government is cutting alcohol duty on draught products from February next year.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, with reference to paragraph 2.40 of the Autumn Budget 2024, HC 295, published on 30 October 2024, what assessment he has made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the proposed increase in the rate of employers' National Insurance Contributions on (a) small businesses and (b) independently owned businesses in Scotland.

This Government inherited a £22 billion black hole in the nation’s finances. The action we are taking in this Budget restores economic stability so we can invest in the future.

The government will protect the smallest businesses by increasing the Employment Allowance to £10,500. This means that next year around 43% of UK employers will pay no employer NICs.

The Federation for Small Businesses (FSB) has called for an increase to the Employment Allowance, and for it to be indexed to the National Living Wage. We have met the FSB’s ask for the Employment Allowance to cover 4 National Living Wage employees in 2025/26.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the impact of changes to inheritance tax on the Scottish economy.

Despite a massive £22 billion black hole in the nation’s finances that this Government inherited, the Scottish Government will receive a record £47.7 billion settlement in 2025/26 - the largest in real terms in the history of devolution.

This includes additional Barnett consequentials of £1.5 billion for 2024/25 and a further £3.4 billion for 2025/26.

On top of this, the UK Government committed to invest directly around £1.4 billion on important Scottish local growth projects. This includes Freeports, Investment Zones, long term plans for towns, Levelling Up Fund projects, Levelling Up Partnerships and a full commitment to remaining Deal projects. As well as a further £900 million of support for the expanded UK Shared Prosperity Fund in 2025/26.

Also, our new approach is making the UK inheritance tax system fairer, ensuring the wealthiest households contribute more while reflecting people’s strongly held desire to pass down their assets to children and grandchildren.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the changes made to inheritance tax at the Autumn Budget 2024 on the financial viability of small family farms in the north east of Scotland.

This Government inherited a £22 billion in year black hole in the nation’s finances. The action we are taking in this Budget restores economic stability so we can invest in the future.

The government recognises that people want to pass on their assets to their families. However, the government is making the inheritance tax system fairer by ensuring that wealthy estates contribute more to the public finances.

The vast majority of agricultural estates currently pay no inheritance tax, and that will continue to be the case after the reforms announced at Budget. This means that any farm, following the death of the owner, can pass on a £1 million free of inheritance tax if they leave their residence to direct descendants.

The reforms announced for agricultural property relief are only expected to affect around 500 claims at death each year from 2026-27. Almost three-quarters of estates claiming the relief are expected to be unaffected.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
6th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking to promote (a) Scotch whisky exports and (b) other Scottish exports.

The recent budget saw the Scotland Office awarded 750 thousand pounds to expand its international trade activities and establish the Brand Scotland initiative.

Brand Scotland funding will support industry via trade missions, projects delivered by the overseas network, and promotional events in the UK and overseas. The Scotland Office routinely promotes Scotch Whisky at events we run overseas, for example during my visits to Norway, and South East Asia this month. Scottish exports, including whisky, will all benefit from this work.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
30th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had discussions with the Scottish Government on incentivising migrants to work in key industries in Scotland.

I have had frequent discussions with the Deputy First Minister of Scotland and have been clear that immigration should not be used as an alternative to training or tackling workforce problems here at home. We value the important contribution made by workers from overseas, but we need to consider issues in the round, and work with industries to ensure they can attract the workforces they need for the future. To achieve this we are strengthening the Migration Advisory Committee, and establishing a framework for joint working with skills bodies across the UK, the Industrial Strategy Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
30th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had discussions with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on incentivising migrants to work in key industries in Scotland.

We are taking a joined up-approach across government, linking migration policy and visa controls to skills and labour market policies – so immigration is not used as an alternative to training or tackling workforce problems here at home. We value the important contribution made by workers from overseas, but we need to consider issues in the round, and work with industries to ensure they can attract the workforces they need for the future. To achieve this we are strengthening the Migration Advisory Committee, and establishing a framework for joint working with skills bodies across the UK, the Industrial Strategy Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
25th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Scottish Government on mitigating the potential impact of closing Scottish visitor centres.

The UK Government recognises the substantial contribution the Scottish tourism industry makes to the UK visitor economy. We are committed to working with industry to strengthen the future of this key sector.

While tourism is devolved, we work closely with the Scottish Government and its agencies to ensure that the sector thrives. This Government will also continue to encourage tourism across the whole of Scotland through our Brand Scotland work to promote Scotland around the world.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
22nd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on supporting the green energy transition in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to making Britain a clean energy superpower by 2030.

As we make the carefully phased transition to clean energy, we will build alternative opportunities for oil and gas workers - to which we’ve already committed £22bn of investment.

What’s more, we have created the National Wealth Fund to invest in our clean energy industries. I have seen first hand what great work is taking place - including just last week at Dundee Port.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
22nd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps his Department is taking to help support a just energy transition in the North Sea.

The UK Government is committed to making Britain a clean energy superpower by 2030.

As we make the carefully phased transition to clean energy, we will build alternative opportunities for oil and gas workers - to which we’ve already committed £22bn of investment.

What’s more, we have created the National Wealth Fund to invest in our clean energy industries. I have seen first hand what great work is taking place - including just last week at Dundee Port.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
22nd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on support for women on maternity leave in Scotland.

This Government is committed to ensuring families have the best start in life.

Through the Employment Rights Bill, we will strengthen the protections for pregnant women, and new mothers returning to work.

These legislative measures aim to tackle maternity and pregnancy discrimination and avoid women leaving the workforce.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
22nd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential economic impact of extending the Borders Railway line from Tweedbank to Carlisle.

The UK Government is committed to working with local partners in the Borders to boost economic growth, in line with our growth mission.

The project referred to sits within the Borderlands Growth Deal. Local partners are submitting proposals for a reset to the Deal for review by late autumn, which will set out revised plans to ensure the programme has the greatest possible economic impact.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
22nd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the decision not to issue North Sea oil and gas licences on employment in Scotland.

We are transitioning towards a clean energy future, but oil and gas production in the North Sea will be a key part of the UK energy landscape for many years to come.

Scotland has the heritage, expertise and world-class workforce to help win this global race for high-quality green energy jobs. This Government is working closely with industry, including to introduce a new skills passport for oil and gas workers, to ensure we take the opportunities that this transition provides.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
17th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how many civil servants are assigned to work in each of his Department's offices; and how many desks are available in each office.

The Scotland Office currently has 39 civil servants assigned to its London Office and 46 assigned to its Edinburgh Office. There are 30 desks available in the London Office and 26 desks in the Edinburgh Office.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
17th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how many and what proportion of desks were occupied in each of his Department’s offices in the most recent four weeks for which figures are available; and how many staff attended each office in person in the same period.

For the 4-week period from 2 September 2024 to 27 September 2024, the Scotland Office’s London Office had an average of 17 staff attend per day and an average of 56% of desks occupied. Please note that part of this reporting period included recess when we are more likely to have leave, visits and stakeholder engagement. We are not required to collect this data for our Edinburgh Office.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
17th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how much was spent on (a) new furniture and fittings and (b) other refurbishment of Ministerial offices in his Department since the dissolution of the last Parliament; and on what items this was spent.

The Scotland Office has not spent any money on new furniture and fittings and other refurbishments of Ministerial offices since the dissolution of the last Parliament.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
16th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Scottish Government on supporting community ownership of (a) land and (b) buildings in Scotland.

This government is committed to the communities sector and community ownership through empowering communities to own and run those local assets which mean the most to them. To date, the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund has helped more than 40 Scottish community organisations with around £17m in grants. As part of this programme, the UK Government is working closely with the Scottish Government to look for opportunities to jointly support projects, including through the Empowering Communities Programme and the Scottish Land Fund.

The projects awarded funding to date can be found online at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/community-ownership-fund-first-round-successful-bidders.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
16th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with (a) the Scottish Government and (b) the Chancellor of the Exchequer on funding for the voluntary sector in Scotland to help reduce child poverty.

Tackling child poverty is a shared priority across all parts of the UK. I am a member of the Child Poverty Taskforce, which is confronting the wide-ranging and deep-rooted causes of child poverty. The Child Poverty Taskforce will collaborate with the Scottish Government on our common goal to reduce and alleviate child poverty. The Taskforce will work with the Scottish Government in developing the UK-wide strategy, to be published in spring next year, to improve children’s lives and life chances now and address the root causes of child poverty in the long-term.

I have had a number of discussions with Scottish Government Ministers since my appointment, as have many of my Ministerial colleagues, including the Prime Minister. T o establish collaboration on the development of a UK-wide Child Poverty Strategy, the co-chairs of the Child Poverty Taskforce met with the First Minister and the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice earlier this month. We look forward to continuing our partnership to build consensus for action and deliver sustainable change for all children across the UK. The Taskforce is also engaging directly with voluntary sector organisations from across the UK.

The Chancellor will set out overall fiscal and spending plans in her Budget on 30 October and the Spending Review in the spring.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
16th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps the Government is taking to tackle depopulation in rural areas in Scotland.

The Government recognises the importance of tackling rural depopulation, and the wider challenges faced by rural and island communities in Scotland. We are committed to supporting these communities by boosting investment and opportunities.

For example, we are in the process of rolling out the Shared Rural Network (SRN) program (alongside EE, three, VMO2 and Vodafone), to improve mobile coverage and connectivity across the UK. Rural areas in Scotland will be among the biggest beneficiaries of this programme.

Furthermore, the UK Government is investing £50m covering the three island groups – Shetland, Orkney and Western Isles – through the Islands Growth Deal. The Deal supports the Islands’ ambitions for net zero, aquaculture and development of tourism and heritage projects. These investments exemplify the Government’s ongoing work towards growing the rural economy and improving infrastructure, which are critical to addressing rural depopulation.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
16th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps the Government is taking to (a) support rural businesses and (b) promote rural economic development in Scotland.

Growing the economy across both rural and urban areas is a key mission for the Government, and helping rural businesses succeed is a significant part of this work. Nature recovery plays a critical role in supporting the rural economy, and in turn businesses can help provide food security, enhance biodiversity and accelerate progress towards net zero targets.

In Scotland, we work closely with the Scottish Government and its agencies to ensure that businesses have access to the support they need to grow and thrive, including through export, and that we showcase the opportunities offered in all parts of Scotland to potential global investors.

For example, the Investment Fund for Scotland offers a range of commercial finance options with smaller loans and debt finance from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million. The fund covers the whole of Scotland, including rural and coastal areas..

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland
15th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what meetings (a) Ministers and (b) his officials have held with external stakeholders since 5 July 2024.

Details of Ministers’ and senior officials’ meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.

Data for the period of July to September 2024 will be published in due course.

Ian Murray
Secretary of State for Scotland