We move swiftly to the second item: the choice of convener. Under rule 12.1.2, the Parliamentary Bureau has decided from the list of eligible members that the Labour party should convene this committee. I therefore invite anyone of that party wishing to stand for the post of convener to identify himself or herself and confirm his or her candidature.
For someone as modest as myself it is difficult, but I wish to offer my candidature.
Mike Watson has offered his candidature. Do any other members wish to offer themselves as candidates to chair this committee?
I second Mike Watson's candidature.
Thank you. The nomination has been made, and if there are no other candidates, it is not necessary to do anything other than ask that the committee by acclaim appoint its first convener.
Mike Watson was elected convener by acclamation.
Colleagues, I appreciate the honour of chairing this committee—I very much believe that it is an honour. It is important that the committee structure works effectively and that it works, as far as possible—there are, of course, limits to this—on a non-partisan basis. I appreciate John Swinney's supporting of my nomination.