Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

SPCB Written Question · S1W-20207 · Session 1

Why Spittal stone was selected for cladding for the new Parliament building in preference to Weydale stone, given that Weydale stone does n…

Answered Asked by Margo MacDonald SNP Lodged 23 Nov 2001

The question

To ask the Presiding Officer why Spittal stone was selected for cladding for the new Parliament building in preference to Weydale stone, given that Weydale stone does not change colour or de-laminate when in contact with water.

The answer

Answered by David Steel on 6 Dec 2001 · 13 days after it was lodged, 1 day after it was due

The selection of Spittal stone for cladding the MSP office building, in preference to Weydale stone, was on the grounds that its darker colour suited the aesthetic requirements of the project. The Convener of the Holyrood Progress Group has confirmed that the results of the testing of Spittal stone must remain commercially confidential, as they could potentially impact upon the future business of the supplier concerned.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-20207 by reference.