The first item on the agenda is the draft report on the research into the cross-party group system that was carried out by the Robert Gordon University. We have the report and it is up to us how we deal with it. I suggest that this is not the day to go into the detail of the report so, if members are content with it, we should publish it. We can then consider the detail and findings of the report and consider how we will proceed with our work on cross-party groups, perhaps in the autumn. Do members have any questions on or alternatives to my suggestion that we publish the report now and then examine the detail when we go to our rather more salubrious surroundings in the autumn? Is everyone content with that?
How much did the research cost?
What an excellent question. I cannot provide an immediate answer, but I am sure that our clerks will be able to. Do we have information on the cost?
We would need to speak to the Scottish Parliament information centre to find out how much the research cost.
Frankly, I think that the report is a complete waste of time, as it does not tell us anything. It is a case of someone borrowing your watch to tell you the time.
It is not necessary to go into the detail now. You will have the opportunity to do that when we consider the report. If you wish, we can find out from SPICe how much the research cost. Costings have to be produced for any research proposals, which go to the Conveners Group, as I am sure that you are aware, as you have been on that group.
Yes. I think that I was on the group when this research was approved.
In that case, you will be aware of it. We can find out the information and convey it to you. Are members content to publish the report now and consider it in detail later?