BANK GOVERNOR SNUBS TALKS WITH SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT.

BANK GOVERNOR SNUBS TALKS WITH SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT.

Commenting on the latest snub by the Bank of England to appear before the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee with a letter by the Governor of the Bank of England backing up his officials' refusal to attend SNP MSP Rob Gibson – a member of the committee – said:

"Coming after a snub by Bank of England officials and the revelation that they are willing to hold invitation-only breakfast buffet in Glasgow but not to talk to Scotland's democratically elected representatives this letter beggars belief.

"If the Bank of England is meant to consult major stakeholders diligently, why won't they meet the Scottish Parliament in public? It is after all one of the premier stakeholders in Scotland.

"The excuse that they are not accountable to the Scottish Parliament doesn't wash. Other UK bodies such as Ofcom, the BBC, and UK ministers and officials have appeared before Parliamentary committees.

"This snub by the Bank of England to engage in discussion with Scotland's democratically elected representatives a is bizarre.

"It is essential the Committee have a full picture of recent economic events and their impact on Scotland the Parliament must get that full picture. That not only means evidence from bankers but also from the Bank of England, the UK Financial Services Authority and current and recent Chancellors of the Exchequer.

"We need a thorough investigation and the Scottish Parliament should hear from all those involved in creating this age of irresponsibility in the first place.

"With the financial services sector playing a significant role in Scotland's economy it is not only right that the Scottish Parliament hears from all those involved but a necessity."