[THE PRESIDING OFFICER opened the meeting at 14:30]
Before we begin, I should like to inform members that the first act of the Scottish Parliament has reached the statute book. Letters patent signifying Her Majesty's assent to the Mental Health (Public Safety and Appeals) (Scotland) Bill were recorded in the Register of the Great Seal on 13 September 1999. The printed act will be available shortly, together with explanatory notes.