Speeches by Jones.

“Scotland’s new Transport Secretary has criticised the UK Government’s transport policy on High Speed 2 for being dysfunctional, yet after two decades in government, the SNP have failed to deliver a rail link to Glasgow airport. That is a vital infrastructure project that would boost economic growth, improve connectivit…”

“8. What steps she is taking to support the delivery of mass transit systems.”

“For 23 years, I proudly served in Scotland’s NHS, working alongside dedicated hard-working brilliant nurses. Under the SNP Government, those very nurses are paying higher income tax than colleagues anywhere else in the UK. Does the Secretary of State agree that instead of demanding more power, the SNP Government should…”

“Turning to space launch and sector development. Last November, the Government told us that they would set out their approach to supporting Scotland’s space launch sector in a cross-government publication. That was due to be released in the spring. Do you know when that is going to be published?”

“My question is about legislative consent and I will direct it to Baroness Smith. Previously you have described your role on the Parliamentary Business and Legislation Committee as a powerful mechanism for testing Departments’ consideration of devolution issues before Bills are introduced, yet devolved Administrations h…”

“Can you tell the Committee when the Government will set out further details of the £20 million funding for Scottish spaceport infrastructure development announced in March?”

“What recommendations could the review make that would help to address the specific challenges involved in access to banking in more rural and remote parts of Scotland?”

“On the point of ATM machines, you may not have the figures, but I am just wondering how many cash machines across Scotland you can withdraw £5 from.”

“The UK Government launched their access to banking review last month. What outcomes would you like to see from that that would help to address gaps in banking provision in Scotland?”

“When communities learn of bank closures within the high streets, they feel that there is a real disconnect between the bank’s decision and how community groups, voluntary groups, the third sector and local councils are all working together in a real effort to revive the local economy. That may be put at risk simply by …”

“Are those colleagues in the room today?”

“How can banks be supported to keep high street branches open where there is evidence that they do contribute to high street activity?”

“Mr Leenders, historically bank branches have acted as anchor institutions on our high streets, driving footfall and customer spending. Do they still play that role?”

“Do you believe that there is a negative impact on communities and high streets when bank branches are closed?”

“Are there enough Gaelic-speaking creatives in Scotland to support the need for a range of genres to be represented in Gaelic broadcasting?”

“It is interesting to hear how important that is to you and the community of Gaelic speakers. Your point about the fact that Gaelic speakers in England are not accounted for was an interesting one. What have been the key achievements of Bòrd na Gàidhlig in supporting Gaelic language and culture since it was established?”

“Funnily enough, that was my next question, so that is perfect timing.”

“I appreciate that.”

“To build on the points that my colleague Douglas raised, my constituency is in the lowlands. For centuries, the lowlands never spoke Gaelic, but we are in an age now where it is on offer through our education system. I am not against that. There is a primary school that is a Gaelic school. My question to you is, when p…”

“Mr Dunbar, what influence does the European charter for regional or minority languages have on the overall approach to Gaelic language policy? How important is the charter in shaping the UK Government’s obligations to support Gaelic broadcasting?”