Oral QuestionScotland Office

What discussions he has had with the First Minister of Scotland on support for the Scottish hospitality sector.

Tabled: 12 February 2026Answered: 25 February 2026

Asked by

John Lamont

ConservativeBerwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Scotland

Answer from Hansard

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)

Scotland’s hospitality businesses, at the heart of our high streets and communities, are the engines of Scotland’s economy. The UK Government have helped businesses across the country by stabilising public finances, focusing on driving economic growth and putting more money in people’s pockets. In Scotland, of course, key levers such as rates, business development, skills and planning are devolved to the Scottish Government. Perhaps hon. Members on the SNP Benches can explain why the Scottish Government have failed so miserably to support Scotland’s hospitality sector in the way that it deserves.