Official Report 88KB pdf
Agenda item 2 is a proposed visit by the committee to the National Assembly for Wales to meet members of its Equality of Opportunity Committee. If we agree in principle today that we wish to undertake such a visit, a precise date can be decided. The visit will probably take place in September or October, and it can be arranged in correspondence with the clerks to the Equality of Opportunity Committee.
Do members agree that we should seek approval from the Conveners Group in advance of a visit to Wales in September or October?
Are members content with the proposed issues for discussion, as listed in paragraph 5 of the paper from the clerk?
Can I confirm that we may return to the list if we have further thoughts on it?
That would be quite acceptable. The topics shown are baseline issues. If we think of something else that would be worth discussing with Assembly members, it could be added, with their agreement.
Can we be clear that the remits of this committee and the Welsh committee are exactly the same? It would be pretty pointless discussing things that are outwith either committee's remit.
The remits are not exactly the same, but there are clear issues of common interest, such as the topics that are listed in the paper—mainstreaming equality, scrutiny of the Government, inquiry reports, sharing information, scrutiny of legislation and European Union matters. They are within our remits, and we would ensure that any further suggestions that Elaine Smith or any other members made were within the remits.
I remind broadcasting and official report staff, and any members of the public who are present, that we will discuss agenda items 3 and 4 in private.
Meeting continued in private until 11:41.