Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee

Meeting date: Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Official Report 454KB pdf

Decision on Taking Business in Private

Welcome to the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee’s 15th meeting in 2017. We have received apologies from David Stewart.

This morning, we meet in the aftermath of the horrific attack in Manchester yesterday evening. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by that senseless act, as well as with the emergency services, to whom we are so grateful for their work in dealing with the aftermath of the atrocity. As has been said before in this Parliament, whatever our disagreements may be—in this place or any other—we stand united in our core values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Those values are strong and they will endure. I know that I speak for all my colleagues here when I say that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Manchester today. As a mark of respect, the Scottish Parliament’s flags are flying at half mast.

Before we move to agenda item 1, I remind everyone present to switch off mobile phones, as they may affect the broadcasting system.

Item 1 is consideration of whether to take in private item 4. Do we agree to take that item in private?

Members indicated agreement.