A host of Scottish businesses have supported Donald Trump’s ongoing investment in Scotland after a parliamentary debate on whether the Republican presidential candidate should be banned from the UK.

The debate was triggered by a public petition launched in the wake of Trump’s call to ban Muslims from the US and prompted the business magnate to threaten to cancel £700m worth of planned investments in two Scottish golf resorts.

In a statement, Trump International Golf Links, Scotland, said: “Three hours of valuable parliamentary time was dedicated to debating the potential ‘ban’.

“In response, businesses in the north east of Scotland have galvanised in their support of Mr Trump’s ongoing investment.”

James Jamieson, Managing Director at James Jamieson Construction, said Trump’s investment had given the region a welcome financial boost.

He said: “The development of Trump International at Balmedie has had a huge impact on my business. The investment was much needed in the area and has provided new opportunities for myself and fellow business owners to build and develop their companies.

“To date, both we and many others in the construction sector have benefitted from various contracts providing ongoing employment and security for our work forces.”

Andrew McNair, Director at Covell Matthews Architects, said numerous sectors had benefited from Trump’s projects.

He said: “There have been a significant number of sub-contractors employed throughout the various projects, including trades such as groundworks, stone masons, joiners, carpenters, slaters, plumbers, electricians, mechanical contractors, decorators, cleaners, landscape contractors as well as opportunities for suppliers of materials and goods, from concrete and stone to fireplaces and furniture.

“Consultants and contractors have been engaged continually since the Trump Organization commenced developing the Aberdeen site in 2008, providing employment for hundreds in the construction industry.”