Devolution in Scotland

David Davis Excerpts

Wednesday 22nd October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Patricia Ferguson]

It is undoubtedly true that we have to learn from one another, and from international examples too. If I can give one example that I would like colleagues to learn from, it is that electronic voting has a place, and a place from which I think this House could benefit greatly.

[David Davis (Goole and Pocklington) (Con)]

Will the hon. Lady give way?

[Patricia Ferguson]

Before I give way, may I just say that I really did not imagine that that one line would create such a response?

[David Davis]

I cannot really comment on electronic voting, but I was going to make a comment in the other direction—about learning in both directions. I believe that Donald Dewar, in his heroic struggle to bring about devolution, wanted a strong Scottish Parliament, in terms of privilege, in terms of the right to summon Ministers—

[Stephen Gethins]

Powers?

[David Davis]

Powers, yes, in terms of order and the balance of power between Parliament and Government, which he wanted to be much stronger as well. Does the hon. Lady think that that would be a good thing?