If members are content, we will move to agenda item 2—consideration of applications for recognition as cross-party groups. There are four applications; members have copies of the forms submitted. We shall take the applications in order.
The group meets the requirements for registration. We should proceed to registration.
Are members happy to approve the group?
The second application is for a cross-party group on human rights. Do members have any comments on the application?
I do not have a problem with proceeding to registration of the group proposed in this application or the next, but there is concern, which has been raised before, about members having less of a numerical presence on the group than organisations outwith the Parliament. That applies in particular to the next group, on architecture and the built environment, on which members are clearly in the minority. We should draw the matter to the attention of the relevant MSPs and suggest that they might want to increase their membership. I know that there are great demands on members' time and that cross-party groups are numerous, but it would be helpful.
We will do that. Are members content to approve the group on human rights?
As you may be aware, convener, my name is down as a potential member of the cross-party group on architecture and the built environment. I share Karen Gillon's concern about the number of people from outside the Parliament who have indicated an interest in being involved. I honestly do not know whether they intend coming to every meeting, but I was slightly taken aback when I saw the list.
We will chase that up. Those are good suggestions.
The principle is that cross-party groups must operate for the purposes that were intended and set out. They must not be used for purposes other than those stated, as Karen Gillon implied.
Are members content for us to approve the group on architecture and the built environment?
The final application is for a cross-party group on international development. Are there any comments?
The application meets the criteria. I suggest that we accept it for registration.
Is that agreed?
I will write to the conveners to inform them of our decisions.
Convener, I would like to ask that an extra item be put on the agenda during the private session if at all possible.
That is not appropriate, as we do not have any further items under which that could be raised. However, if you speak to me, it can certainly be put on the agenda for the next meeting.
Meeting continued in private until 11:30.
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