Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Mundell and Antoinette Sandbach

Wednesday 19th April 2017 Commons Chamber

[Antoinette Sandbach (Eddisbury) (Con)]

1. What assessment he has made of the contribution of Scotland to the future of the UK.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (David Mundell)]

As the Prime Minister has said,

“at the heart of the United Kingdom is the unity of our people: a unity of interests, outlook and principles. This transcends politics and institutions, the constitution and the economy. It is about the values we share”

and our “solidarity”. I will never stop making the passionate and positive case for our United Kingdom, and I look forward to having the opportunity to do so during the forthcoming general election.

[Antoinette Sandbach]

With the Defence Secretary confirming a £1.7 billion investment in Scottish military bases, does my right hon. Friend agree that Scotland plays a crucial role in defending my constituents in Eddisbury and those throughout the whole United Kingdom from growing threats at sea, in the air and on land, and that the divisive policies of the nationalists threaten that crucial role?

[David Mundell]

I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend—Scotland is on the frontline of defending the United Kingdom from growing threats at sea, in the air and on land. It is the home to essential defence capabilities, and our commitment to the future of defence in Scotland is underlined by increasing investment in better infrastructure for our armed forces, which is helping them to keep the whole of the United Kingdom safe.