[The Convener opened the meeting at 14:00]
Welcome. I have had a number of requests from members of other committees to attend this meeting for the discussion on the special programme for the Highlands and Islands. Those members are Lewis Macdonald, Rhoda Grant, George Lyon and Fergus Ewing. I am agreeable to their participation in the meeting and in any discussion; they will not have a vote, should a vote be required.