Charles Kennedy – 2014 Parliamentary Question to the Scotland Office

The below Parliamentary question was asked by Charles Kennedy on 2014-04-29.

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent assessment he has made of the economic potential of the Scottish Highlands and Islands; and if he will make a statement.

Mr Alistair Carmichael

The Scottish Highlands and Islands play an important role in the Scottish economy.

The UK Government recognises this and has demonstrated strong support for rural areas through measures such the fuel duty rebate scheme, the abolition of the fuel duty escalator, and in the Budget 2014 supporting Scotch Whisky by freezing duty on spirits.