Edinburgh Tram (Line Two) Bill Committee, 15 Sep 2004

Meeting date: Wednesday, September 15, 2004

Official Report 102KB pdf

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Joint Meeting

Item 6 concerns evidence taking from the NAO. Members will be aware that the NAO has recently published a report into light rail making and has made a number of recommendations in relation to the success of such schemes in England and Wales. The paper for this item sets out our proposal to hold a joint meeting of the Edinburgh Tram (Line One) Bill Committee and the Edinburgh Tram (Line Two) Bill Committee to take evidence from the NAO on its report's conclusions.

Given that the promoter and objectors might find the NAO study team's information useful, it is proposed that the briefing take place in a formal meeting to allow the NAO's comments to be included in the Official Report. The appropriate approval has been obtained from the Parliamentary Bureau and the conveners group will consider the item at its meeting tomorrow. I point out that we are taking this item early to ensure that, if the committee agrees, members can receive the briefing on 23 September before the consideration of evidence taking during the preliminary stage.

Are members agreed that we meet jointly with the Edinburgh Tram (Line One) Bill Committee to take evidence from the NAO study team?

Members indicated agreement.

Can I clarify that we are talking about a formal meeting and not an informal briefing?

It will be a formal public meeting.

It is proposed that the meeting take place on 23 September at 12.45 pm.

I note that you used the word "proposed". Is there any flexibility about that date?

I know that you have a problem in that respect. Unfortunately, we are a little bit behind the 8-ball here. I am sorry about that.

Well, if so, then so.

Are members agreed to allow Jackie Baillie and me to agree between ourselves who will convene the joint meeting?

Members indicated agreement.