Written questions by McAllister.

Innovation and Technology, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the Replacing animals in science strategy on economic growth.

The Government has published a strategy to support alternatives to the use of animals in science, which considered economic impacts. Building on the UK’s strengths as home to world leading research and pharmaceutical businesses, the strategy will support the UK to capitalise on the global non-animal technologies market, estimated to be worth $29.4 billion by 2030 The strategy has also considered the scientific and economic advantages of human-relevant methods for product development and testing.

Innovation and Technology, what steps his Department is taking to support digital inclusion in West Dunbartonshire.

Digital inclusion is a priority for me and for Government. It means everyone has the access, skills, support and confidence to participate in a modern digital society, whatever their circumstances. Work is ongoing to develop our approach to tackling digital exclusion and we hope to announce more on this soon. We look forward working closely with the third sector, business and the Devolved Governments, to ensure interventions are targeted to and based on individual needs.