We have responses from the Scottish Executive to two petitions, which we have already considered and on which we have been provided with a briefing paper. PE75, from Mr Frank Harvey, relates to the issue of circuses with live animals. A number of options have been outlined. The petition system is important, but so are the priorities that have been identified by the Executive and by committees. It is important that petitions are taken on board, but we must be clear about our priorities, because petitions can be submitted in a slightly random way.
I agree. We should support the third option that is listed in section 3.b. of the briefing paper. It is possible for a member to introduce a bill that would create legislation that governs the use of live animals in circuses.
Are any members minded otherwise? Members have indicated that they concur with the petitioner on the substantive policy issue. We note that the option of a member's bill is available to any member who wishes to make the matter a priority. Is that agreed?
The next petition is PE90, from Aberdeenshire Council. We have, in the past, discussed the issue that it raises and the reply that we have received is for information. Do we agree to note the minister's reply?
We agreed earlier to take item 5 in private. We will take a short break to allow the official report to depart.
Meeting continued in private until 16:17.