§ 5. Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield)If he will list the overseas visits he has (a) undertaken since 12 June and (b) planned for the future.[128447]
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Alistair Darling)I have made no overseas visits since 12 June in my capacity as Secretary of State for Scotland, and I have no plans to do so.
§ Sir Nicholas WintertonThe reason I ask the question is that Scotland faces severe problems of economic growth and huge job losses in manufacturing industry. Industry is plagued by a very high business rate, which, in my view, needs cutting. What is the right hon. Gentleman doing to encourage further inward investment in Scottish manufacturing, which is so important if we are to provide jobs for the Scottish 155 people? As an English MP, I am as concerned about manufacturing in Scotland as in England or in my own constituency.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman should have put down a question on manufacturing in Scotland. He has been given an answer, and I do not intend to call a supplementary.
§ Angus Robertson (Moray)The Secretary of State says that he has not conducted a single trip to another country. May I strongly urge him to do so, for one reason? He might be able to broaden his experience and to learn how few countries lock up in prison the children of asylum seekers. Can he name one European country—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Once again, the hon. Gentleman is out of order. The supplementary should relate to the question that was tabled. [Interruption.] I hope that the hon. Gentleman is not challenging my ruling. He seems to be in an awful state. [Interruption.] Did he say that he is challenging my ruling?
§ Sir Nicholas WintertonAs a member of the Chairmen's Panel, I should not do so.
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is fine, then.