Public Bodies (Complainers' Rights) (PE578)
We move to item 3, which is further consideration of petition PE578. When it came before us previously, we deferred our consideration until we could see what the Scottish Executive had to say about the issue that it raises. We have now received a helpful letter from Hugh Henry. His letter of 11 November is also very positive. The minister recognises the difficulties and also the sensitivity of the issues. As members can see from the letter, the Executive takes the matter seriously. Hugh Henry's officials are now in discussion with Education Department officials to see how the issues can be progressed.
I suggest that we note the minister's letter and continue petition PE578 until we receive the more detailed response that the minister has promised. Given the length of time since the petition was submitted, it might be helpful for us to write to Donald MacKinnon, the petitioner, indicating that we have had a response from the minister, enclosing a copy of the response and giving him an idea of what the committee has decided to do.
I agree with Jackie Baillie's suggestion. The last sentence of the letter says that the minister hopes to be able to give us a more detailed response
Is the committee agreed that, in the light of the minister's response, we should continue the petition for further consideration once we receive the minister's more detailed response?
Is the committee also agreed that we write to Mr MacKinnon to confirm that decision.
That brings us to the end of our agenda. I thank members for their attendance. I also express my appreciation for the helpful way in which members made an early appearance before 2 pm, as that let us deal sensibly with all the questions.
Meeting closed at 15:39.
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