Written questions by Crichton.

What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support Scotland's rural economy.

Our recently announced trade deals will benefit key industries in rural, coastal and island communities, such as whisky and salmon. Our forthcoming Industrial Strategy and drive to clean energy will ensure good quality jobs across Scotland. Project Gigabit is improving broadband connectivity for homes and businesses, and only last week we announced thirteen upgraded phone masts to transform rural connectivity across the Scottish countryside.

What steps he is taking to promote Scotland internationally.

Brand Scotland, the Scotland Office’s programme of international trade and investment promotion, is about selling Scotland to the world.I have already visited Norway, Singapore and Malaysia, to promote our food and drink, energy, and defence sectors. Next month, I will be in Washington D.C and New York for the famous Tartan Week.Closer to home, I was delighted to meet my Honourable Friend last week to discuss how Brand Scotland can support some of his constituents’ finest products - Harris tweed and Scottish seafood - and I commend his outstanding work in this area.

What recent progress he has made with Cabinet colleagues on the green energy transition in Scotland.

I have been working closely with my cabinet colleagues to achieve our clean energy Mission.Scotland has a huge role to play, not least through GB Energy - headquartered in Aberdeen and backed with £8.3bn. It will work to deliver clean energy, lower bills, and bring the jobs of the future to all parts of Scotland.This is on top of the largest ever Contracts for Difference round and the National Wealth Fund, which will mobilise billions into our world-leading clean energy industries.