Written question asked by Robert McCartney (United Kingdom Unionist), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 July 1996. It was answered by Lord Forsyth of Drumlean (Conservative) on Wednesday, 17 July 1996 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: If he will set out the (a) strategic and (b) economic interests which require the maintenance of the union between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom.

Answer: Mr. Robert McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will set out the (a) strategic and (b) economic interests which require the maintenance of the union between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.[35992] Mr. Michael Forsyth: The Union between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom has provided political and financial stability for nearly 300 years. It has been the cornerstone of the prosperity enjoyed by all of the peoples of the United Kingdom. The creation of a tax raising Scottish Parliament as proposed by Opposition parties would threaten the existence of the Union and the benefits of partnership would be lost.

Secondary information