Economic Growth

1. What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support economic growth in Scotland.

This Government are taking action to foster economic growth in Scotland. According to the latest figures, the UK is now the fastest-growing economy in the G7, and last week the OECD upgraded our growth forecast for this year, as did the International Monetary Fund. Scottish businesses and communities are benefiting from our new trading relationships with India and the United States and from the UK’s defence dividend. Those are all creating and supporting good-quality jobs across Scotland.

UK Government funding is transforming a former Ministry of Defence site in Stirling into a major film studio, creating opportunities for skilled jobs, innovation and growth across Scotland’s screen sector. As this industry is international and relies on a skilled workforce to thrive, a joined-up approach across Government is vital. The funding unlocks the site, but what discussions is the Secretary of State having with the Scottish Government, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and local partners to ensure that my constituency has the skills, infrastructure and support needed to maximise the opportunity? Will he join me in visiting the site to see its potential at first hand?

My hon. Friend is a tireless advocate for his community in Stirling. I am pleased to hear that the Stirling and Clackmannanshire city region deal has had a visible impact on the region, and I appreciate his invitation, particularly to visit a film studio. The successful transfer of former MOD Forthside land through the deal has already unlocked further funding for the studio. I assure him that my officials continue to engage with key stakeholders, including the Scottish Government and other Government Departments, such as DSIT and DCMS, to ensure that the UK Government’s investment continues to generate opportunities for growth.

Aberdeen is the only UK city expected to grow by less than 1% between now and 2028, not least because of the UK’s anti-oil and gas policies. The Rosebank production facility has now arrived at the field; it is ready and just waiting for the Government to permit it. Rosebank would bring £25 billion of investment into the economy and 2,000 jobs. Would the Secretary of State welcome that economic boost and those jobs for Scotland? If so, when did he last speak to the Prime Minister or the Energy Secretary about having Rosebank permitted?

I was actually in Aberdeen at the weekend, and I am fully aware of the contribution that oil and gas make to the north-east of Scotland and to the broader Scottish and UK economy. As was made clear in exchanges with the Leader of the Opposition at the Dispatch Box a few weeks ago, this is a quasi-judicial decision that rests with the Energy Secretary. I assure the hon. Lady that discussions continue not just with me, but with Cabinet colleagues in relation to these matters. Ultimately, given the terms of the legislation, the matter rests with the Energy Secretary.

I call the Liberal Democrat spokesperson.

The Government have pledged major investment in Scotland, which I welcome, but too many Scottish high streets are still being hollowed out by Labour’s job tax hikes while illegal vape shops, mini-marts and barbers thrive. Following yesterday’s announcement for England, does the Secretary of State have any plans to hold discussions with the Scottish Government about increasing steps to tackle this issue and bring life back into our town centres?

In relation to the Pride in Place policies that we have set out, we are directly targeting support that can be provided to high streets across Scotland. The hon. Lady will be aware that within the devolution settlement, local taxation in relation to high streets rests appropriately with the Scottish Government. I wrote to the First Minister offering to meet him immediately on his appointment, but it is a matter of regret that he has not taken up that opportunity.