European and External Relations Committee, 11 Jun 2003

Meeting date: Wednesday, June 11, 2003

Official Report 100KB pdf

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Scottish Parliament European and External Relations Committee Wednesday 11 June 2003 (Morning)

[The Oldest Committee Member opened the meeting at 10:32]

I welcome everyone to the first meeting of the European and External Relations Committee in the second session of the Scottish Parliament. Because of my age, I am in the chair this morning. It comes as a great surprise to me to find out that I am older than Dennis Canavan, who seems to have been around for years. However, my tenure as convener will be fairly brief, which should come as a relief to a few committee members.

It is a great privilege to follow on from Irene Oldfather, who was the committee's convener during the previous parliamentary session. I know that she has a great interest in Europe and, as far as I understand it, did a grand job as convener.

I welcome to the meeting committee members both old and new, members of the press and the public and officials. I also give a special welcome to two students, James Burrow and Caroline Selman, who are serving their work experience with the committee clerks. I am sure that they will enjoy that experience and learn much from the clerks who look after the committee's affairs. I should also mention that we have received apologies from Margaret Ewing and Keith Raffan. I believe that all other members are present.