Speeches by Sullivan.

“One question I raised in the previous session was around the islands’ connectivity plan, which identified that more fixed links, rather than relying on ferries, would be beneficial, but it would seem that no funding was put behind this. Do you agree with that, and do you believe that perhaps a more robust route should …”

“This is for Councillor Steele. The Scottish Government have previously identified potential bridges in the Western Isles, and of course they have their islands connectivity plan. However, you have said that no further action has been taken since. Now I may be putting this question to the wrong person, but I will have a…”

“Councillor Robinson, could you give us an update on the feasibility study for tunnels in Shetland? Given this Committee has recently visited the Faroe Islands, I think we would be really keen to understand where you are on that journey at the moment.”

“I think that members of the public—particularly residents, your constituents—would be a bit baffled given that the island’s connectivity plan specifically identifies the opportunities for more resilient transport links with the replacement of ferries. It is odd that this has not really been taken forward, but I do unde…”

“Having that vision statement has driven the connectivity work, whether tunnels between islands but also tunnels on islands themselves.”

“Is that something that could be shared with us?”

“Mr Sloan, transport is a devolved issue in Scotland, but do you believe that there is a strategic case for the UK Government’s involvement in any tunnel project for Shetland?”

“That would be very helpful. Thank you. When will you complete the feasibility study, and what do you think the next steps are after that?”

“Could the project to deliver tunnels for Shetland still go ahead without UK Government involvement? Again, I stress that transport is a devolved matter in Scotland. I am wondering about your view on whether, if the UK Government did not provide financial support for such a project, it could go ahead?”

“Very briefly and to continue on your point about the Faroes, Councillor Robinson, one thing that I was really struck by was the shared vision that everyone should be able to reach the capital within an hour, which is quite incredible when you consider the landscape there. I think that underlines the importance of keepi…”

“Will that be to take the conversation forward in light of the islands’ connectivity plan?”

“I thank the Minister and my right hon. Friend the Chancellor for recognising the important role that hauliers and freight play in our national and local economies. The steps announced yesterday will hugely support the 3,500 people in my constituency who work in transport and logistics. These are the people who keep our…”

“Last weekend, West Lothian Danceworld, founded and led by Hazel Saunders Dunn, celebrated its 40th birthday with shows at the prestigious Usher Hall in Edinburgh. Over the years, Danceworld has given thousands of young people the chance to showcase their talent, refine their dance skills, build confidence and forge lif…”

“Q1. If he will list his official engagements for Wednesday 20 May.”

“May I share the condolences expressed by the Prime Minister? As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the Iran war, people have struggled with the cost of living. In my constituency in the heart of Scotland, road travel and logistics are key to everyday life and local industry, and the Road Haulage Association…”

“The British Standards Institution has supported safety, industrial harmony and best practice in the workplace for 125 years this year. I have seen at first hand the extensive work that it has done in creating the new inclusive personal protective equipment standards, with special mention to Anne Hayes, Sara, Nele and R…”

“I thank the Minister for the changes, which are a welcome vote of confidence in UK business and industry. I welcome the rapid review of existing requirements that we know can slow down the procurement process, leading to frustration and inefficiencies all around. Ahead of International Workers’ Memorial Day, will he co…”

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“My right hon. Friend is painting a beautifully evocative picture of the UPP, and it takes me straight to my favourite film, “Cinema Paradiso”. Does she agree that communities often deliver in a way that the Government cannot? They deliver according to what communities and local people need, but they can also act in a m…”

“T2. My constituency has always been a hotbed of musical talent and creativity. The newly approved Bathgate Music Hub will be an excellent addition to community-run venues that support local musicians. Co-operative and community-owned models increasingly safeguard and grow live music venues. How does the Department supp…”