Oral Answers to Questions

Roger Mullin Excerpts

Wednesday 10th June 2015 Commons Chamber

The Secretary of State was asked—

[Roger Mullin (Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath) (SNP)]

1. What discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the potential effects on Scotland of measures in the next Budget.

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

This is the first Scottish questions since the passing of the former Member for Ross, Skye and Lochaber. Charles Kennedy was a regular participant at Scottish questions and I wish to pass on my personal condolences to his family at this sad time.

I have regular discussions on a range of economic issues with my Cabinet colleagues, including the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

[Roger Mullin]

It gives me great pleasure to welcome the Secretary of State to his new role and wish him well. In my constituency RBS has announced the closure of branches in Kelty and in Aberdour, a further sign of withdrawal from the banking sector that should be supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and communities. What is the right hon. Gentleman’s view of the retail banking sector in Scotland? Has he had discussions with the Chancellor about creating challenger banks out of RBS?

[David Mundell]

This is a momentous question because it is the first time that a Member representing Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath has asked a question at Scottish questions. I share the hon. Gentleman’s concern about RBS’s approach to branch closures, its commitment to smaller communities and its breach of a commitment not to be the last branch to leave a community. I will certainly take up with RBS the issues he has raised.