I propose that we move speedily on, so that we stay on time for a finishing time of 12.30 pm. Members will note that there are three negative instruments for our consideration under item 4: the Discontinuance of Legalised Police Cells (Portree) Rules 2001 (SSI 2001/64); the Police Grant (Scotland) Order 2001 (SSI 2001/74); and the Gaming Act (Variation of Fees) (Scotland) Order (SSI 2001/83). Negative instruments do not require the minister to be here to answer questions, but we can note the instruments and/or make comments on them. Do members have comments on the Discontinuance of Legalised Police Cells (Portree) Rules 2001 (SSI 2001/64)?
The order sounds like a good idea.
It seems to make sense.
It seems pretty straightforward.
For the record, I want to say that committee members who served on the then Justice and Home Affairs Committee will remember that the Police Grant (Scotland) Order 2000 caused considerable comment when it was discussed, because committee members perceived that the police service was underfunded. We should at least note the 7.9 per cent increase that is taking place in the police grant this year, given that we exercised a considerable amount of time criticising the Executive for underfunding the police service last year. This year, the Executive has made a considerable increase in the police grant.
Is not that a redistribution of the grant?
The grant has increased.
I think that the increase went to the Grampian and Highlands forces.
It is fair to say that committee members have said that they want that topic to be a future topic of discussion. Members may therefore wish to pick that up at a future meeting, using the note of today's discussion as guidance.
I ask members to excuse me, as I have to leave soon for another appointment at 12 noon.
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