| Back to the Scottish Parliament | Journal of the Scottish Parliament | ||||||
| Archive Home Minutes of Proceedings 1999-2011 |
No. 43 Wednesday 7 January 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Cardinal Keith O’Brien, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh led Time for Reflection. 2. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-759—That the Parliament agrees a revision to the programme of business for Wednesday 7 January 2004, as agreed on 17 December 2003— after— 2.30pm Time for Reflection - Cardinal Keith O’Brien, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions insert— followed by Ministerial Statement on Fisheries The motion was agreed to. 3. Ministerial Statement: The Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Ross Finnie) made a statement on Fisheries, and answered questions on the statement. 4. Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1: The Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Ross Finnie) moved S2M-425—That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill. After debate, the motion was agreed to (DT). 5. Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill – Financial Resolution: The Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Ross Finnie) moved S2M-500—That the Parliament, for the purposes of any Act of the Scottish Parliament resulting from the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill, agrees to any increase in expenditure payable out of the Scottish Consolidated Fund in consequence of the Act. The motion was agreed to (DT). 6. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-760—That the Parliament agrees the following programme of business— Wednesday 14 January 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Executive Debate on Developing a Sexual Health and Relationship Strategy for Scotland followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 15 January 2004 9.30 am European and External Relations Committee Debate on the European Commission’s Work Programme for 2004 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Debate on Protection of Emergency Workers followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 21 January 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Debate on Environment and Rural Development Committee’s 4th Report 2003 (Session 2): Inquiry into the National Waste Plan followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 22 January 2004 9.30 am Scottish National Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Business followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business The motion was agreed to. 7. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 4 and 5 as noted above. 8. Closure of Holy Trinity Episcopal Primary School: The Parliament debated S2M-702 in the name of Mr Brian Monteith—That the Parliament regrets the decision of Stirling Council’s ruling Labour administration to close Holy Trinity Episcopal Primary School in the top of the town area of the city; notes that the council has failed to listen to the wishes of parents, the local community and those involved in the school as recorded in its report on its own consultation exercise; believes that Stirling Council has therefore failed to make an adequate case for the closure of the school, and further believes that the Scottish Executive should use its powers over the closure of denominational schools to ask the council to find a way to keep the school open. The meeting closed at 5.45 pm. No. 44 Thursday 8 January 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. Delivering a Quick, Effective Youth Justice System: The Minister for Justice (Cathy Jamieson) moved S2M-762—That the Parliament recognises the importance of dealing quickly, firmly and effectively with the minority of young people who offend; acknowledges that progress has been made by local authorities and partners in the statutory and voluntary sectors to encourage rehabilitation, prevent reoffending and tackle and reduce youth crime, but recognises that further work must be done to ensure that the quality of life in our communities continues to improve. Nicola Sturgeon moved amendment S2M-762.2 to motion S2M-762— Leave out from "acknowledges" to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 37, Against 77, Abstentions 1). Miss Annabel Goldie moved amendment S2M-762.1 to motion S2M-762— Insert at end;
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 13, Against 101, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 84, Against 0, Abstentions 31). 2. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 3. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 4. Improving Scotland’s Homes: The Minister for Communities (Ms Margaret Curran) moved S2M-761—That the Parliament welcomes the report of the Housing Improvement Task Force and believes that its adoption will make a major contribution to the delivery of good quality, sustainable and affordable housing for all in Scotland. Shona Robison moved amendment S2M-761.3 to motion S2M-761— Insert at end—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 51, Against 63, Abstentions 1). Mary Scanlon moved amendment S2M-761.1 to motion S2M-761— Leave out from “welcomes” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 15, Against 100, Abstentions 0). Tommy Sheridan moved amendment S2M-761.2 to motion S2M-761— Leave out from “will” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 13, Against 102, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to (DT). 6. Horse Racing Industry in Scotland: The Parliament debated S2M-474 in the name of Susan Deacon—That the Parliament recognises the significant contribution that the horse racing industry makes to the economy, generating up to £125 million annually and providing the equivalent of 1,700 full-time jobs; commends the success of the racing industry in continuing to expand and develop, recognising its contribution to local economies and tourism; notes that there is widespread concern regarding the potential implications of the proposed Office of Fair Trading (OFT) rule 14 notice on the deregulation of the British horse racing industry and, in particular, on its likely impact on Scotland’s five racecourses, Ayr, Hamilton Park, Kelso, Musselburgh and Perth, each of which is independently owned and managed with profits generated ploughed back into the sport for long-term growth, and considers that the Scottish Executive should work with representatives of the racing industry to identify opportunities to promote and develop the industry and to explore the possible implications of the OFT ruling. The meeting closed at 6.03 pm. No. 45 Wednesday 14 January 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Marilyn Douglas, Parish Assistant, Cumbernauld led Time for Reflection. 2. Developing a Sexual Health and Relationship Strategy for Scotland: The Parliament debated Developing a Sexual Health and Relationship Strategy for Scotland. 3. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-783—That the Parliament agrees the following programme of business— Wednesday 21 January 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Debate on Environment and Rural Development Committee’s 4th Report 2003: Inquiry into the National Waste Plan followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 22 January 2004 9.30 am Scottish National Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Debate on the Comprehensive Programme of Education Reforms followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 28 January 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 29 January 2004 9.30 am Executive Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Business followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business The motion was agreed to. 4. May 2004: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-779—That the Parliament agrees to meet in The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh during the period from 17 to 21 May 2004. The motion was agreed to (DT). 5. Designation of Lead Committee: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-780—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Title Conditions (Scotland) Act 2003 (Conservation Bodies) Amendment Order 2003 (SSI 2003/621). The motion was agreed to (DT). 6. Decision Time: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved without notice a motion under Rule 11.2.4 of Standing Orders that Decision Time on Wednesday 14 January be taken at 4.57 pm. The motion was agreed to. 7. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 4 and 5 as noted above. 8. Social Work Review: The Parliament debated S2M-642 in the name of Brian Adam—That the Parliament notes with concern the shortage of social workers throughout Scotland and considers that the Scottish Executive should initiate a McCrone-type review to look at social workers' pay and conditions in order to attract and retain more social workers. The meeting closed at 5.49 pm. No. 46 Thursday 15 January 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. European and External Relations Committee Debate on the European Commission’s Work Programme for 2004: Richard Lochhead, on behalf of the European and External Relations Committee, moved S2M-771—That the Parliament notes the publication of the European Commission’s work programme for 2004, which is dominated by the enlargement of the European Union, and agrees that it contains a number of legislative and non-legislative plans of importance to Scotland. Nicola Sturgeon moved amendment S2M-771.2 to motion S2M-771— Insert at end—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 28, Against 81, Abstentions 0). Phil Gallie moved amendment S2M-771.1 to motion S2M-771— Leave out “is” and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 17, Against 88, Abstentions 5). The motion was then agreed to (DT). 2. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 3. Question Time: Questions were answered by Scottish Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 4. Protection of Emergency Workers: The Parliament debated the Protection of Emergency Workers. 5. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-781—That the Parliament agrees—
The motion was agreed to. 6. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on item 1 as noted above. 7. Medical Services in the West Highlands: The Parliament debated S2M-629 in the name of George Lyon—That the Parliament recognises the deep concern of the communities in Fort William and Oban regarding the threat to future provision of acute medical services in the west Highlands; notes that over 3,500 people, so far, have turned out at public meetings to express their opposition to Argyll and Clyde and Highland NHS boards’ plans to downgrade Oban and Fort William hospitals to community status; recognises that, if the proposals go ahead, patients from the West Highlands would be forced to travel hundreds of miles to Glasgow or Inverness to access treatment, and therefore believes that the Scottish Executive should reject these plans and give a commitment that the current service provision will continue to be delivered locally to communities in the West Highlands. 8. Motion without Notice: Mrs Margaret Ewing moved without notice a motion under Rule 8.14.3 that the Parliament agrees that Members’ Business on 15 January 2004 be extended by up to 30 minutes. The meeting closed at 6.10 pm. No. 47 Wednesday 21 January 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Mrs Sheena MacGillivray, Deputy Head of Nairn Academy, led Time for Reflection. 2. Inquiry into the National Waste Plan: Sarah Boyack, on behalf of the Environment and Rural Development Committee, moved S2M-769—That the Parliament notes the recommendations contained in the Environment and Rural Development Committee’s 4th Report 2003 (Session 2): Inquiry into the National Waste Plan (SP Paper 47). After debate, the motion was agreed to (DT). 3. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-800—That the Parliament agrees— (a) the following programme of business— Wednesday 28 January 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 29 January 2004 9.30 am Executive Debate on Modernising the Court System – A New Supreme Court 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Stage 1 Debate on the Budget Bill followed by Motion on the Health Protection Agency Bill - UK Legislation followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 4 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Executive Business followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 5 February 2004 9.30 am Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Business followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business and (b) (i) that consideration of the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill at Stage 2 be completed by 5 March 2004; (ii) that consideration of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Bill at Stage 1 be completed by 17 September 2004; and (iii) that the completion date for consideration of the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill at Stage 1 be extended to 27 February 2004. The motion was agreed to. 4. Approval of SSI: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-799—That the Parliament agrees that the draft Solvent Emissions (Scotland) Regulations 2004 be approved. The motion was agreed to (DT). 5. Establishment of Committee: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-805—That the Parliament agrees to establish a committee of the Parliament as follows: Name of Committee: Waverley Railway (Scotland) Bill Committee. Remit: To consider and report to the Parliament on the Waverley Railway (Scotland) Bill. Duration: Until the Bill has received Royal Assent, falls or is withdrawn. Convenership: The Convener will be a member of the Scottish National Party and the Deputy Convener will be a member of the Labour Party. Membership: Gordon Jackson (Lab), Christine May (Lab), Tricia Marwick (SNP), Mr Ted Brocklebank (Conservative) and Mike Pringle (LD). The motion was agreed to (DT). 6. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 2, 4 and 5 as noted above. 7. Economic Potential of the Renewable Energy Industry: The Parliament debated S2M-569 in the name of Christine May—That the Parliament recognises the outstanding economic potential presented by the renewable energy industry, not only in the field of wind power but also through other forms of energy such as biomass and wave power and further recognises that, if the Scottish Executive is to meet all of its renewable energy targets, it needs to do all it can to encourage all forms of renewable energy so that the market is there to support future projects. 8. Motion without Notice: Mr Mark Ruskell moved without notice a motion under Rule 8.14.3 that the Parliament agrees that Members’ Business on 21 January 2004 be extended by up to 20 minutes. The motion was agreed to. The meeting closed at 6.01 pm. No. 48 Thursday 22 January 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. Impact of Top-up Fees on Higher Education in Scotland: Fiona Hyslop moved S2M-803—That the Parliament believes that the Higher Education Bill published by the Department for Education and Skills on 8 January 2004 will have an adverse effect on Scottish higher education and therefore calls on all Scottish MPs to vote against the bill at Second Reading. The Deputy First Minister and Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning (Mr Jim Wallace) moved amendment S2M-803.2 to motion S2M-803— Leave out from “believes” to end and insert—
Murdo Fraser moved amendment S2M-803.3 to motion S2M-803— Leave out from “will” to end and insert—
After debate, amendment S2M-803.2 was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 65, Against 37, Abstentions 14). As a result amendment S2M-803.3 was pre-empted. The motion as amended was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 71, Against 7, Abstentions 37). Accordingly, the Parliament resolved—That the Parliament recognises that Scotland’s distinctive higher education system is a valuable asset which must be maintained and developed for the good of the nation; further recognises that its competitive advantage must be maintained; welcomes the commitment in the Partnership Agreement that the Executive “will not support the introduction of top-up tuition fees” in Scotland; notes that the Enterprise and Culture Committee’s report on its Scottish Solutions Inquiry considers that the Executive’s decision to respond to developments in England by proceeding with a third phase of its higher education review in order to establish a robust evidence base “is wholly appropriate”, and looks forward to this third phase of the review reporting in the early spring. 2. Fisheries Council December 2003: Richard Lochhead moved S2M-798—That the Parliament recognises that the fisheries agreement signed in December 2003 discriminates against Scotland and as a result is unworkable and unjust and therefore calls upon the Scottish and UK governments to seek an urgent renegotiation of the agreement to ensure the survival of our fishing communities. The Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Allan Wilson) moved amendment S2M-798.4 to motion S2M-798— Leave out from “recognises” to end and insert—
Mr Ted Brocklebank moved amendment S2M-798.1 to motion S2M-798— Leave out from “discriminates” to end and insert—
After debate, amendment S2M-798.4 was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 70, Against 43, Abstentions 1). As a result amendment S2M-798.1 was pre-empted. The motion, as amended, was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 74, Against 42, Abstentions 0). Accordingly, the Parliament resolved—That the Parliament supports the more balanced outcome negotiated by ministers at the December Fisheries Council; welcomes the fact that this will benefit many sections of the Scottish fishing industry while ensuring conservation of key stocks on which the long-term viability of the industry depends; deplores the calls by the SNP leader for fishermen to break the law; recognises that there are elements of the detailed agreement which are the subject of further technical discussion with the European Commission; supports the efforts made by the Scottish Executive to address these, and further supports the willingness of Scottish Ministers to monitor the socio-economic impact on fishermen, ports and communities following the conclusions of the technical discussions and EU negotiations with Norway with a view to taking appropriate action if necessary. 3. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 4. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 5. Comprehensive Programme of Education Reforms: The Minister for Education and Young People (Peter Peacock) moved S2M-806—That the Parliament supports the Scottish Executive’s additional financial support and reform programme for school education, the focus on the needs of the individual child within a reinvigorated comprehensive system and delivering excellence in Scotland’s schools through reduction in class sizes in P1 and in S1 and S2 for maths and English, reform of the curriculum to ensure it offers increased choice to young people including a changed ethos in P1 and better opportunities for students over 14, reform of parental involvement to achieve a better partnership between parents and schools and reform of additional support for learning to focus better on the needs of the child. Fiona Hyslop moved amendment S2M-806.1 to motion S2M-806— Leave out from “supports” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 37, Against 78, Abstentions 0). Lord James Douglas-Hamilton moved amendment S2M-806.2 to motion S2M-806— Leave out from first “and” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 13, Against 95, Abstentions 7). The motion was then agreed to (DT). 6. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 1, 2 and 5 as noted above. 7. Recognition of Kinship Care: The Parliament debated S2M-792 in the name of John Swinburne—That the Parliament recognises that many grandparents have become the new foster care parents of children whose mothers and fathers have become disconnected from mainstream society; acknowledges that such care arrangements are usually more stable and result in a positive impact on the young person, as a consequence of grandparents’ strong sense of commitment to provide care; further acknowledges that current legislation enables local authorities to contribute to the maintenance of a young person in kinship care; recognises that not all kinship carers will wish to undergo formal scrutiny, but shares concerns about the financial consequences experienced by kinship carers who have satisfied the relevant scrutiny requirements to provide this care, and considers that the Scottish Executive should ensure that local authorities make the appropriate contribution to these carers. The meeting closed at 6.02 pm. No. 49 Wednesday 28 January 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Rabbi Moshe Rubin of Giffnock and Newlands Hebrew Congregation led Time for Reflection. 2. Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1: The Minister for Education and Young People (Peter Peacock) moved S2M-529—That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 69, Against 0, Abstentions 40). 3. Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill – Financial Resolution: The Minister for Education and Young People (Peter Peacock) moved S2M-616—That the Parliament, for the purposes of any Act of the Scottish Parliament resulting from the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill, agrees to the following expenditure payable out of the Scottish Consolidated Fund, namely– (a) any expenditure of the Scottish Ministers in consequence of the Act; and
After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 61, Against 25, Abstentions 23). 4. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-824—That the Parliament agrees the following programme of business— Wednesday 4 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Ministerial Statement - A Housing Standard for the 21st Century followed by Motion on the Energy Bill - UK Legislation followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 5 February 2004 9.30 am Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Debate on the Local Government Finance (Scotland) Order 2004 followed by Motion on Gender Recognition Bill - UK Legislation followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 11 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Scottish National Party Business followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 12 February 2004 9.30 am Procedures Committee Debate on its 2nd Report 2003: Oral Questions in the Chamber 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Stage 3 of the Budget (Scotland) Bill followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Motion on Higher Education Bill - UK Legislation 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business After debate, the motion was agreed to (by division: For 99, Against 10, Abstentions 0). 5. Approval of SSI: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-825—That the Parliament agrees that the draft National Health Service (Distribution of Endowment Income Scheme) (Scotland) Regulations 2004 be approved. The motion was agreed (DT). 6. Approval of SSI: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-826—That the Parliament agrees that the draft Scottish Hospital Trust (Transfer of Property) Regulations 2004 be approved. The motion was agreed (DT). 7. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 2, 3, 5 and 6 as noted above. 8. Food for Good: The Parliament debated S2M-742 in the name of Mark Ballard—That the Parliament commends UNISON on the production of its “Food for Good Charter” and considers that NHS Scotland should adopt the targets set out therein for organic produce, animal welfare and fair trade and accept the UNISON Food for Good recommendations on meat quality, five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, recycling and composting, patients not profit, resources, real food and fair pay as policy. 9. Motion without Notice: Shiona Baird moved without notice a motion under Rule 8.14.3 that the Parliament agrees that Members’ Business on 28 January 2004 be extended by up to 10 minutes. The motion was agreed to. The meeting closed at 6.08 pm. No. 50 Thursday 29 January 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. Modernising the Court System – A New Supreme Court: The Minister for Justice moved S2M-828—That the Parliament believes that it is a cardinal feature of a modern democratic state that the judiciary should be separated from the legislature and therefore supports the creation of a new Supreme Court believing that it will strengthen the independence of the judiciary. Nicola Sturgeon moved amendment S2M-828.1 to motion S2M-828— Leave out from “believing” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 30, Against 75, Abstentions 0). Miss Annabel Goldie moved amendment S2M-828.2 to motion S2M-828— Leave out from “it is” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 46, Against 60, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 62, Against 18, Abstentions 27). 2. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 3. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 4. Budget (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1: The Minister for Finance and Public Services (Mr Andy Kerr) moved S2M-807—That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Budget (Scotland) Bill. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 61, Against 9, Abstentions 37). 5. Health Protection Agency Bill – UK Legislation: The Deputy Minister for Health and Community Care (Mr Tom McCabe) moved S2M-786—That the Parliament endorses the principle that the Health Protection Agency should be able to carry out, in Scotland, certain devolved radiation protection functions and, subject to the prescribed statutory requirements and procedures, other devolved health protection functions as set out in the Health Protection Agency Bill; agrees that the Bill should confer powers and functions on the Scottish Ministers and make provision for various other related matters in respect of the Health Protection Agency, and agrees that the Bill should be considered by the UK Parliament. The motion was agreed to (DT). 6. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 1, 4 and 5 as noted above. 7. Public Consultation on Private Prisons: The Parliament debated S2M-793 in the name of Fiona Hyslop—That the Parliament notes the concerns of many of its members and amongst the wider public about the proposals for private prisons in Scotland; notes that applications for two new prisons have now been lodged in Addiewell and Low Moss but that as yet the public have not been informed if either or both are intended to operate as private prisons, and expresses the view that the public should be entitled to know what kind of operation is being planned for their local communities as part of any consultation and decision-making process. 8. Motion without Notice: Fiona Hyslop moved without notice a motion under Rule 8.14.3 that the Parliament agrees that Members’ Business on 29 January 2004 be extended by up to 5 minutes. The meeting closed at 6.00 pm. No. 51 Wednesday 4 February 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30pm. 1. Time for Reflection: The Rt Reverend Professor Iain Torrance, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, led Time for Reflection. 2. Business Motion: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau moved S2M-852—That the Parliament agrees a revision to the following programme of business for Wednesday 4 February 2004, as follows— after, 2.30 pm Time for Reflection – The Rt Rev Prof Iain Torrance, Moderator of the Church of Scotland followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions insert, followed by Ministerial Statement on Fatal Fire at Rosepark Care Home The motion was agreed to. 3. Ministerial Statement: The Minister for Justice (Cathy Jamieson) made a statement and answered questions on the Fatal Fire at Rosepark Care Home. 4. Ministerial Statement: The Minister for Communities (Ms Margaret Curran) made a statement and answered questions on A Housing Standard for the 21st Century. 5. Energy Bill – UK Legislation: The Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning (Lewis Macdonald) moved S2M-788—That the Parliament agrees that those provisions in the Energy Bill that relate to devolved matters and those that confer executive powers and functions on the Scottish Ministers should be considered by the UK Parliament. Shiona Baird moved amendment S2M-788.1 to motion S2M-788— Leave out “agrees” and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 12, Against 78, Abstentions 23). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 78, Against 37, Abstentions 0). 6. Business Motion: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau moved S2M-851—That the Parliament agrees— the following programme of business— Wednesday 11 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Scottish National Party Business followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 12 February 2004 9.30 am Procedures Committee Debate on its 2nd Report 2003 (Session 2): Oral Questions in the Chamber; on its 1st Report 2004: Oral Questions and Time in the Chamber; and on its 2nd Report 2004: Emergency Bills followed by Motion on the Appointment of a Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Stage 3 of the Budget (Scotland) Bill followed by Motion on Asylum and Immigration Bill – UK Legislation followed by Motion on Higher Education Bill – UK Legislation followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 25 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 26 February 2004 9.30 am Executive Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Business followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business and (b) that consideration of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill at Stage 2 to be completed by 10 March 2004. The motion was agreed to. 7. Designation of Lead Committee: Tavish Scott moved S2M-853—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Tenements (Scotland) Bill. The motion was agreed to (DT). 8. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 5 and 7 as noted above. 9. Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treatment (AMD): The Parliament debated S2M-667 in the name of Kate Maclean—That the Parliament notes the recent decision by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland on the use of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and acknowledges that photodynamic therapy is the only effective treatment for wet AMD, the most aggressive form of the disease and the leading cause of blindness in the UK, with around 650 new patients diagnosed with wet AMD in Scotland every year; is deeply concerned that funding has not been made available for clinicians to treat on the NHS those patients who urgently require the therapy, and endorses the demand by the Royal National Institute of the Blind Scotland and the Macular Disease Society that the Scottish Executive ensures that funding is immediately provided by all NHS boards, thereby saving the sight of those who could benefit from the therapy. The meeting closed at 5.48 pm. No. 52 Thursday 5 February 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. Police Accountability: David McLetchie moved S2M-849—That the Parliament notes that there is widespread public misunderstanding of who is responsible for what in terms of policing in Scotland; recognises that there needs to be greater local involvement in policing along with a police service that is more responsive to public demands, and calls on the Scottish Executive to strengthen public accountability and involvement by considering ideas such as the direct election of conveners of police boards and the regular publication of localised crime statistics. The Deputy Minister for Justice (Hugh Henry) moved amendment S2M-849.3 to motion S2M-849— Leave out from “notes” to end and insert—
Nicola Sturgeon moved amendment S2M-849.1 to motion S2M-849— Leave out from “notes” to end and insert—
After debate amendment S2M-849.3 was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 64, Against 47, Abstentions 7). As a result amendment S2M-849.1 was pre-empted. The motion, as amended, was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 64, Against 47, Abstentions 7). Accordingly, the Parliament resolved—That the Parliament endorses the Scottish Executive’s commitment to work for a safer Scotland by reducing crime and re-offending; welcomes its commitment to enhance community accountability for policing through local police boards; endorses its promotion of responsiveness to local communities through police boards’ duty to secure Best Value and to report to the public on performance, and welcomes its policy of Community Planning which is enabling police forces to improve the delivery of services to local communities through more effective collaboration with other public bodies. 2. The Scottish Economy: Murdo Fraser moved S2M-855—That the Parliament notes with concern the consistent underperformance of the Scottish economy relative to that of the UK as a whole; recognises that the burdens of higher rates, water charges and regulation faced by businesses in Scotland are factors contributing to this underperformance, and calls upon the Scottish Executive to take immediate steps to create a more business friendly environment by reducing business rates and water charges and cutting red tape, thereby encouraging business development, improving the outlook for economic growth, and contributing to a reverse in Scotland’s trend of population decline. The Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning (Lewis Macdonald) moved amendment S2M-855.3 to motion S2M-855— Leave out from “with” to end and insert—
Jim Mather moved amendment S2M-855.1 to motion S2M-855— Leave out from “recognises” to end and insert—
Carolyn Leckie moved amendment S2M-855.2 to motion S2M-855— Leave out from “with” to end and insert—
After debate amendment S2M-855.3 was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 63, Against 54, Abstentions 1). As a result amendments 855.1 and 855.2 were pre-empted. Accordingly, the Parliament resolved—That the Parliament notes the evidence of an upturn in global economic activity and the opportunities for Scottish businesses and the Scottish economy to grow; rejects the proposition that increased competitiveness is best achieved by reductions in business taxation; believes instead that economic growth and wealth creation require targeted investment in skills and learning, business growth and innovation, and global connections, and supports the Scottish Executive’s strategy of sustained investment in these areas to improve Scotland’s competitive position in the global economy. 3. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 4. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 5. Local Government Finance (Scotland) Order 2004: The Minister for Finance and Public Services (Mr Andy Kerr) moved S2M-821—That the Parliament agrees that the Local Government Finance (Scotland) Order 2004 (SSI 2004/14) be approved. Mr Brian Monteith moved amendment S2M-821.1 to motion S2M-821— Insert at end—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 17, Against 89, Abstentions 12). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 95, Against 18, Abstentions 5). 6. Gender Recognition Bill – UK Legislation: The Deputy Minister for Justice (Hugh Henry) moved S2M-813—That the Parliament endorses the principle of giving transsexual people legal recognition of their acquired gender and agrees that the provisions in the Gender Recognition Bill that relate to devolved matters should be considered by the UK Parliament thereby ensuring a consistent UK approach and early compliance with the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights with respect to the Convention rights of transsexual people under Article 8 (right to respect for private life) and Article 12 (right to marry). After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 76, Against 35, Abstentions 7). 8. Tax Stamps on Scotch Whisky Products: The Parliament debated S2M-833 in the name of Mr Brian Monteith—That the Parliament notes with concern that Her Majesty’s Government is once again considering the introduction of tax stamps on spirits, but not on wine or beer; recognises that any such tax stamp would impact particularly on the Scotch whisky industry; believes that the case for a tax stamp system is not proven and that it would be an ineffective means of combating fraud and illicit trade while imposing substantial costs and practical problems on the industry, particularly in relation to labelling and storage; notes the Scottish Executive’s Scotch whisky framework which supports a fair taxation regime for Scotch whisky, and therefore believes that the Executive should make representations to Her Majesty’s Government against the introduction of tax stamps or any similar burdens on the Scotch whisky industry. The meeting closed at 5.59 pm. No. 53 Wednesday 11 February 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Rev Dr Michael Purcell, Parish Priest, St Mary of the Angels, Camelon led Time for Reflection. 2. The Future of Scottish Football: Mr Kenny MacAskill moved S2M-889—That the Parliament notes the crisis faced by Scottish football; recognises football’s significant contribution and potential impact in terms of its economic, social and health benefits and its role in our culture and identity; sympathises with the backroom and playing staff of those clubs worst affected; calls on professional football clubs to work with their supporters to harness the emotional and financial investment they make in their clubs; calls on the football authorities and clubs to ensure better business planning and financial management; believes that public funding for the game is essential but not the bail out of individual clubs; welcomes current and proposed financial support from the Scottish Executive but calls for such support to be matched by structural change; calls for the Scottish Football Association (SFA) to be a more integrated governing body for the game; calls for the for a review of the professional league structure in Scotland and the criteria for membership, and further calls for the SFA to regulate and develop participation by all ages and at all levels from grassroots in the community through to the national team. Mr Jamie McGrigor moved amendment S2M-889.1 to motion S2M-889— Leave out from “significant” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 16, Against 96, Abstentions 1). Colin Fox moved amendment S2M-889.2 to motion S2M-889— Leave out from “sympathises” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 13, Against 101, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 99, Against 15, Abstentions 0). 3. Nuclear Waste: Roseanna Cunningham moved S2M-890—That the Parliament is concerned that policies related to nuclear waste management are being discussed and debated at UK and European level without significant input from Scotland; believes that appropriate statutory guidance for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency on radioactive discharges is urgently required, and considers that decisions regarding the control, management and disposal of nuclear waste material in Scotland should be a matter solely for the Scottish Ministers. The Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Allan Wilson) moved amendment S2M-890.3 to motion S2M-890— Leave out from “is concerned” to end and insert—
Alex Johnstone moved amendment S2M-890.1 to motion S2M-890— Leave out from “is concerned” to end and insert—
Mr Mark Ruskell moved amendment S2M-890.4 to motion S2M-890— Insert after “Parliament”—
After debate amendment 890.3 was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 77, Against 37, Abstentions 1). As a result amendments S2M-890.1 and S2M-890.4 were pre-empted. The motion as amended was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 78, Against 37, Abstentions 0). Accordingly, the Parliament resolved—That the Parliament agrees that the review of options for the long-term management of radioactive waste, currently being undertaken by the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management, is the correct means of engaging Scotland in the debate to find a long-term publicly acceptable solution to the disposal of long-lived radioactive waste and that the Scottish Executive should continue to input into UK, European and international radioactive waste issues and require the Scottish Environment Protection Agency to implement policy such as the UK Strategy for Radioactive Discharges 2001-2020. 4. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-906—That the Parliament agrees the following revision to the programme of business for Thursday 12 February 2004— after, 9.30 am Procedures Committee Debate on its 2nd Report 2003 (Session 2): Oral Questions in the Chamber; on its 1st Report 2004: Oral Questions and Time in the Chamber; and on its 2nd Report 2004: Emergency Bills insert, followed by Motion on Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Bill – UK Legislation and after, 2.30 pm Question Time delete, 3.10 pm Stage 3 of the Budget (Scotland) Bill followed by Motion on Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Bill – UK Legislation and insert, 3.10 pm Ministerial Statement on Common Agricultural Policy Reform followed by Stage 3 of the Budget (Scotland) Bill The motion was agreed to. 5. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-898—That the Parliament agrees— (a) the following programme of business— Wednesday 25 February 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 26 February 2004 9.30 am Executive Debate on a Better Deal for Young People 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Executive Debate on Building and Supporting the NHS Workforce followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business and (b) that consideration of the Tenements (Scotland) Bill at Stage 1 be completed by 3 June 2004. The motion was agreed to. 6. Designation of Lead Committee: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-899—That the Parliament agrees that the Health Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Prohibition of Smoking in Regulated Areas (Scotland) Bill at Stage 1. The motion was agreed to (DT). 7. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 2, 3 and 6 as noted above. 8. VisitScotland Tourist Information: The Parliament debated S2M-847 in the name of Nora Radcliffe—That the Parliament notes the criticisms from the tourism industry about the performance and operation of the visitscotland.com website; in particular, notes the concerns among some operators about the negative impact the website is having on their custom due to technical problems with the site, the high cost of subscription, the apparent lack of reliable information in some instances and the cost in lost tourism; recognises how important tourism is to the Scottish economy, and therefore considers that the Scottish Executive and VisitScotland must ensure that these problems are resolved ahead of the 2004 tourist season. The meeting closed at 5.59 pm. No. 54 Thursday 12 February 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. Procedures Committee, Oral Questions and Emergency Bills: Iain Smith, on behalf of the Procedures Committee, moved S2M-864—That the Parliament notes the Procedures Committee’s recommendations for changes to the format of Question Time and other aspects of oral questioning in its 2nd Report, 2003 (Session 2), Oral Questions in the Chamber, and about the timing of First Minister’s Question Time and Question Time in its 1st Report, 2004 (Session 2), Oral Questions and Time in the Chamber, further notes the Committee’s recommendations for changes to the procedure for Emergency Bills in its 2nd report, 2004 (Session 2), Report on Emergency Bills, and agrees that the changes to standing orders set out in Annexe A to the 2nd Report, 2003 (Session 2) and in Annexe A to the 2nd Report, 2004 (Session 2) should be made with effect from 13 February 2004. After debate, the motion was agreed to (DT). 2. Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Bill – UK Legislation: The Deputy Minister for Justice (Hugh Henry) moved S2M-838—That the Parliament endorses the principle of creating a new offence to combat trafficking in human beings for non-sexual exploitation as set out in the Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Bill and agrees that the provisions to achieve this end in Scotland which relate to devolved matters should be considered by the UK Parliament. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 76, Against 33, Abstentions 1). 3. Appointment of a Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland: Scott Barrie, on behalf of the Selection Panel, moved S2M-886—That the Parliament nominates Kathleen Marshall to Her Majesty The Queen for appointment as the Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland. After debate, the motion was agreed to (DT). 4. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 5. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 6. Ministerial Statement: The Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development (Allan Wilson) made a statement and answered question on reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. 7. Budget (Scotland) Bill – Stage 3: The Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Services (Tavish Scott) moved S2M-902—That the Parliament agrees that the Budget (Scotland) Bill be passed. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 86, Against 10, Abstentions 14). 8. Higher Education Bill – UK Legislation: The Deputy First Minister and Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning (Mr Jim Wallace) moved S2M-787—That the Parliament agrees that the provisions contained in the Higher Education Bill which have the effect of creating a UK Arts and Humanities Research Council and which confer powers and functions on Scottish Ministers, so far as those provisions relate to matters within the legislative competence of the Parliament, should be considered by the UK Parliament. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 77, Against 22, Abstentions 10). 9. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8 as noted above. 10. Sewage Dumping: The Parliament debated S2M-770 in the name of Ms Rosemary Byrne—That the Parliament accepts that the dumping of untreated or semi-treated sewage on land is a revolting concept to the public with potentially devastating health and environmental effects; notes with strong disapproval the current practice of the dumping of semi-treated waste in various sites in the south of Scotland by a subsidiary of Thames Water plc, and considers that the Scottish Executive should ban this practice completely by ensuring safe scientific methods of disposal under both the precautionary and proximity principles. 11. Motion without Notice: Alasdair Morgan moved without notice that, under Rule 8.14.3, the debate be extended by 5 minutes. The motion was agreed to. The meeting closed at 6.06 pm. No. 55 Wednesday 25 February 2004 The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Mr Habib Malik a director of Multi Ethnic Aberdeen Limited and Scotland Area Manager for Islamic Relief, led Time for Reflection. 2. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-953—That the Parliament agrees a revision to the programme of business for Wednesday 25 February 2004, as follows— after, 2.30 pm Time for Reflection – Mr Habib Malik, a director of Multi Ethnic Aberdeen Limited and Scotland Area Manager for Islamic Relief followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions insert, followed by Ministerial Statement on Fresh Talent The motion was agreed to. 3. Ministerial Statement: The First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell) made a statement and answered questions on Fresh Talent. 4. Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1: The Minister for Justice (Cathy Jamieson) moved S2M-473—That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 112, Against 0, Abstentions 3). 5. Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill – Financial Resolution: The Minister for Finance and Public Services (Mr Andy Kerr) moved S2M-536—That the Parliament, for the purposes of any Act of the Scottish Parliament resulting from the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill, agrees to any increase, in consequence of the Act, in expenditure payable out of the Scottish Consolidated Fund. The motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 112, Against 0, Abstentions 3). 6. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-952—That the Parliament agrees— (a) the following programme of business Wednesday 3 March 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 4 March 2004 9.30 am Stage 3 of the Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Bill 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.30 pm Question Time 3.10 pm Continuation of Stage 3 of the Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Bill followed by Motion on Companies (Audit Investigations and Community Enterprise) Bill – UK Legislation followed by Motion on Civil Contingencies Bill – UK Legislation followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 10 March 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 11 March 2004 9.30 am Scottish Senior Citizens’ Unity Party Business followed by Scottish Socialist Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.00 pm Question Time 3.00 pm Executive Business followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time and (b) that the rota for departmental themes for Question Time, to run for a trial period from 11 March 2004 to the summer recess, be as follows: Week 1 Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Learning; Justice and Law Officers; Week 2 Education, Tourism, Culture and Sport; Finance and Communities; Week 3 Environment and Rural Development; Health and Community Care. The motion was agreed to. 7. Designation of Lead Committees: Patricia Fergusson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved— S2M-947—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the draft Advice and Assistance (Financial Conditions) (Scotland) Regulations 2004; S2M-948—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the draft Civil Legal Aid (Financial Conditions) (Scotland) Regulations 2004; S2M-949—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Advice and Assistance (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2004, (SSI 2004/49); S2M-950—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Civil Legal Aid (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2004 (SSI 2004/50); and S2M-951—That the Parliament agrees that the Justice 2 Committee be designated as lead committee in consideration of the Criminal Legal Aid (Fixed Payments) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2004 (SSI 2004/51). The motions were agreed to (DT). 8. Approval of SSI: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-946—That the Parliament agrees that the draft Budget (Scotland) Act 2003 Amendment Order 2004 be approved. The motion was agreed to (DT). 9. Approval of SSI: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-945—That the Parliament agrees that the Food Protection (Emergency Prohibitions) (Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning) (West Coast) (Scotland) Order 2004 (SSI 2004/21) be approved. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 70, Against 22, Abstentions 23). 10. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9 as noted above. 11. General Medical Services Contracts: Alasdair Morgan moved S2M-728—That the Parliament is concerned that the provisions made for contracting-out out-of-hours care from GPs to local NHS boards may be insufficiently funded to meet the unique challenges encountered in rural practices; believes that rural practices thus unable to opt out will have serious difficulty in recruiting new doctors, and considers that the Scottish Executive should re-examine the level of funding allocated to NHS boards providing these services in rural areas. The meeting closed at 6.04 pm. No. 56 Thursday 26 February 2004 The meeting opened at 9.30 am. 1. A Better Deal for Young People: The Minister for Education and Young People (Peter Peacock) moved S2M-943—That the Parliament values the very positive contribution made by Scotland’s young people and is committed to ensuring that they have the opportunities and support that they need to develop their skills and talents and participate fully and actively; supports the Scottish Executive’s commitment to working with young people, their families and communities, with the newly appointed Children’s Commissioner, and with those responsible for service delivery, to provide high quality universal services and targeted support for the most vulnerable; welcomes the Executive’s commitment to helping looked after children make the transition to successful, independent adulthood, to ensuring that all children are safe from abuse and neglect, to addressing offending behaviour and to reviewing the Children’s Hearings system to develop and improve the current service; recognises that young people are often predominantly the victims of anti-social behaviour, and welcomes the Executive’s commitment to tackling it more effectively. Nicola Sturgeon moved amendment S2M-943.1 to motion S2M-943— Insert at end—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 61, Against 63, Abstentions 0). Lord James Douglas-Hamilton moved amendment S2M-943.2 to motion S2M-943— Leave out from “supports” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 19, Against 104, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 65, Against 14, Abstentions 45). 2. First Minister’s Question Time: Questions were answered by the First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell). 3. Question Time: Questions were answered by Ministers and junior Scottish Ministers. 4. Building and Supporting the NHS Workforce: The Minister for Health and Community Care (Malcolm Chisholm) moved S2M-944—That the Parliament appreciates the vital contribution of a high quality healthcare system to the lives of everyone in Scotland and to our economy; acknowledges the fundamental importance of the 150,000 staff who help care for patients and pays tribute to their dedication and professionalism; welcomes the recent significant increases in staff numbers across the NHS in Scotland and the action taken to promote more flexible ways of working, create safer workplaces and protect frontline staff, support continuing professional development, and develop new roles and teamworking, but recognises the challenges facing the Scottish Executive in achieving a sustainable healthcare workforce in the long term through local, regional and national service and workforce planning and redesign, against the background of wider demographic and labour market challenges. Shona Robison moved amendment S2M-944.2 to motion S2M-944— Leave out from “recognises” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 43, Against 81, Abstentions 0). Mr David Davidson moved amendment S2M-944.1 to motion S2M-944— Leave out from “welcomes” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 18, Against 67, Abstentions 39). Carolyn Leckie moved amendment S2M-944.3 to motion S2M-944— Leave out from “recent” to end and insert—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 16, Against 82, Abstentions 26). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 75, Against 22, Abstentions 27). 5. Business Motion: Patricia Ferguson, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-942—That the Parliament agrees—
The motion was agreed to. 6. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 1 and 4 as noted above. 7. Planning for a Co-operative Development Agency: The Parliament debated S2M-827 in the name of Johann Lamont—That the Parliament notes the crucial role of co-operative and mutual organisations within local communities and across Scotland; recognises the wide variety in size, capacity and in areas of activity of co-operative and mutual initiatives; congratulates those involved within the co-operative and mutual sector both on the key role they play in local and Scottish-wide economic activity and in delivering social justice; welcomes the commitment of the Scottish Executive to establish a Co-operative Development Agency (CDA), and believes that departments across the range of Executive responsibilities must work together to ensure that the CDA will effectively support and strengthen co-operative and mutual enterprises in all their diversity. The meeting closed at 5.58 pm. The meeting opened at 2.30 pm. 1. Time for Reflection: Rodef Shalom Eliyahu McLean, Co-ordinator of the Jerusalem Circle, led Time for Reflection. 2. National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1: The Minister for Health and Community Care (Malcolm Chisholm) moved S2M-215—That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill. Shona Robison moved amendment S2M-215.1 to motion S2M-215— Insert at end—
After debate, the amendment was disagreed to ((DT) by division: For 39, Against 77, Abstentions 0). The motion was then agreed to ((DT) by division: For 94, Against 17, Abstentions 5). 3. National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill – Financial Resolution: The Minister for Health and Community Care (Malcolm Chisholm) moved S2M-227—That the Parliament, for the purposes of any Act of the Scottish Parliament resulting from the National Health Service Reform (Scotland) Bill, agrees to any increase in expenditure of the Scottish Ministers payable out of the Scottish Consolidated Fund in consequence of the Act. After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 73, Against 44, Abstentions 0). 4. Business Motion: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-983—That the Parliament agrees the following programme of business— Wednesday 10 March 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 1 Debate on the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution in respect of the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business – Debate on the subject of S2M-913 Dr Sylvia Jackson: Commonwealth Day 2004 Thursday 11 March 2004 9.30 am Scottish Senior Citizens’ Unity Party Business followed by Scottish Socialist Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.00 pm Question Time – Enterprise, Lifelong Learning and Transport; Justice and Law Officers; General Questions 3.00 pm Executive Debate on the Historic Environment, a Valuable Resource for Scotland followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business – Debate on the subject of S2M-746 Rob Gibson: Maternity Services in Caithness Wednesday 17 March 2004 2.30 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Debate on Enterprise and Culture Committee’s 3rd Report, 2003 (Session 2) Scottish Solutions Inquiry followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 18 March 2004 9.30 am Scottish National Party Business 12 noon First Minister’s Question Time 2.00 pm Question Time – Education and Young People, Tourism, Culture and Sport; Finance and Public Services and Communities; General Questions 3.00 pm Executive Business followed by Business Motion followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business The motion was agreed to. 5. Business Motion: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-989—That the Parliament agrees the following revision to the programme of business for Thursday 4 March 2004— Thursday 4 March 2004 delete, 9.30 am Stage 3 of the Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Bill and insert, 9.30 am Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Stage 3 of the Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Bill The motion was agreed to. 6. Office of the Clerk: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-986—That the Parliament agrees that between 3 July 2004 and 7 January 2005 the office of the Clerk shall be open all days except: Saturdays and Sundays, 3 December 2004, 24 December 2004 (pm), 27 and 28 December 2004 and 3 and 4 January 2005. The motion was agreed to (DT). 7. Rule 2.3.1: Tavish Scott, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, moved S2M-987—That the Parliament agrees the following dates under Rule 2.3.1: 5 July – 3 September 2004 (inclusive), 11 – 22 October 2004 (inclusive), 27 December 2004 – 7 January 2005 (inclusive). After debate, the motion was agreed to ((DT) by division: For 112, Against 4, Abstentions 1). 8. Decision Time: The Parliament took decisions on items 2, 3, 6 and 7 as noted above. 9. The Institute for Science Education in Scotland: The Parliament debated S2M-870 in the name of Lord James Douglas-Hamilton—That the Parliament notes the widespread concerns about the future of science education in Scotland; believes the declining popularity of science subjects in schools and at further and higher education levels has consequences for economic development; welcomes the establishment of the Institute for Science Education in Scotland, a unique network of scientists working with science teachers to support excellence in science teaching throughout Scotland; notes that the aim of the institute is to work with the thousands of people in the Scottish science community who are determined to reverse the decline in the popularity of science at schools, colleges and universities; further notes the priority set by the Scottish Science Advisory Committee in its recent report, Why Science Education Matters, on development of the institute; notes that the institute has the support of all Scotland’s universities, the Royal Society of Edinburgh and the General Teaching Council for Scotland; further notes the creation of a National Centre for Excellence in Science Education in England with support from the Wellcome Trust and the Department for Education and Skills, and considers that the Scottish Executive should support the development of the institute. The meeting closed at 6.12 pm.
|