Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack has delivered an upbeat message about the country’s place within the United Kingdom in a keynote speech.
He told the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Conference today (Sat): “I am more confident than ever that people see Scotland's future as being at the heart of a strong UK, with devolution firing on all cylinders.”
Mr Jack’s address to delegates at Glasgow’s SEC could not be delivered in person as he was in London for official duties relating to the arrival at Westminster Abbey of the Stone of Scone.
The Stone of Destiny set off from Edinburgh Castle on Thursday and will play a pivotal role in the Coronation of King Charles III next weekend. On its return to Scotland, the Stone will be the centrepiece of a new museum at Perth City Hall, funded in part by £10million from the UK Government.
In his speech Mr Jack – MP for Dumfries and Galloway – reflected on a tumultuous year in politics.
He reiterated his determination to defend the decision to invoke Section 35 of the Scotland Act to prevent the SNP's controversial Gender Recognition (Reform) Bill from becoming law because of its impact on the rest of the UK.
He said: “I am disappointed Humza Yousaf has seen fit to challenge my decision in the Court of Session, but be in no doubt that the UK Government will robustly defend the decision that I took back in January.”
He added he was pleased the new First Minister agreed with his assessment that the SNP-Green “dog’s dinner” deposit return scheme should be paused for a major overhaul.
“I hope we can now work together on a better solution that works for businesses and consumers across the UK, while achieving environmental goals,” he said.
Mr Jack highlighted Scotland’s two new Freeports as a prime example of what can be achieved when the governments at Westminster and Edinburgh work together.
And he said the UK Government’s Levelling Up Agenda is “devolution in action”, delivering positive change for Scottish communities with £2.3billion direct investment – on top of record funding for the Scottish Government – in everything from a community buy-out of a remote pub in Knoydart to a new ferry to serve Fair Isle.
“The SNP-Green coalition’s opposition to, and abuse of, devolution act like a drag-anchor on Scotland’s potential,” he warned.
“I will keep my focus on what people really care about – strengthening our economy for the future and supporting communities.”