Agenda item 4 is pre and post-council scrutiny. I refer to the table of recommendations in annexe A of paper EU/03/4/3.
It is suggested that we welcome the information provided on the transport, telecommunications and energy council, but request further information, as noted by the clerk. Is that agreed?
There are major issues relating to the agriculture and fisheries council. We should seek further information on the mid-term review of the common agricultural policy and the possible proposal for the introduction of legislation on the protection of animals during transportation, which, as we have previously noted, is particularly important in relation to transportation from the Scottish Highlands. Is it agreed that we proceed as recommended?
It is recommended that we welcome the information provided on the education, youth and culture council. Is that agreed?
On the 27 to 28 January agricultural and fisheries council, there are Commission proposals for the identification of sheep and goats. I do not know whether I should declare an interest here. The matter has potentially difficult implications for large areas of Scotland and we should seek more information on it.
There are significant cost implications. It is around 37p for a tag and there has to be double-tagging. That is a lot of money for a flock of 500 or 1,000.
Leaving aside the cost of tags, there is the sheer practicality of issuing tags to every sheep in Scotland. That is an intriguing thought and further consideration probably needs to be given to the matter.
The provisional agenda for the general affairs and external relations council includes in a session on general affairs the likelihood of the consideration of a paper prepared by the Commission that looks at the recent developments in the convention on the future of Europe. Could we see a copy of that paper?
What page are you looking at?
Page 6.
I will ask the clerk to get that for us.
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