Chamber and committees

The Scottish Government does not have a single definition of collective advocacy, nor is there one set out in Scottish legislation. However, collective (or group) advocacy is commonly understood and described in guidance as a group with shared experience or interests working together to explore shared issues and campaign for their rights.

The data on cancer waiting times is routinely published by Public Health Scotland and available on its website.

The Scottish Government regularly reviews Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) resourcing to ensure it can effectively discharge its statutory functions.

This review is consistent with the wider principles of the public service reform strategy that aims to deliver a more collaborative and efficient public service across Scotland.

Alongside its existing workload, the DPEA has experienced a significant increase in renewable energy-related casework, particularly in relation to onshore wind developments, strategic electricity transmission infrastructure, and associated wayleave and anticipated compulsory purchase order cases.

DPEA has implemented a range of operational improvements to support increasing workloads. These include enhanced forecasting and case management, strengthened engagement with consenting colleagues and transmission operators, the early allocation of reporters to priority cases, expansion of its pool of consultant reporter's, to help manage increasing volumes efficiently, increased use of digital processes, and ongoing review of procedures and guidance. Together, these measures are designed to ensure cases are handled as efficiently and proportionately as possible whilst maintaining the quality and robustness of decision-making.

The Scottish Government will continue to keep DPEA's resource requirements under review, within the principles of the wider public service reform strategy, to ensure it is able to support the timely determination of planning and energy infrastructure projects that are critical to delivering Scotland's net zero targets and long-term energy security.

The Scottish Government is committed to accelerating the growth of Scotland’s offshore wind sector, and to maximising the economic opportunity from the transition to net zero, including through delivery of the Sectoral Marine Plan (SMP) and establishment of a Scottish Marine Recovery Fund (MRF).

As of the end of Q1 2026, there was 10.7GW of onshore wind installed capacity with an additional 5.9GW awaiting construction and 2.1GW under construction. This gives a total of 18.7GW consented onshore wind capacity across these categories. These figures are taken from publications released by the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

It is vital to note that achieving consent is only one of several factors that determine deliverability. Grid availability and a route to market through Contracts for Difference are key factors outwith the Scottish Government’s control.

The Scottish Government recognises the important role that repowering will play in delivering on our onshore wind ambitions.

Scotland’s long-standing support for onshore wind, sustained even when deployment elsewhere in Great Britain stalled, means that most initial repowering opportunities will be in Scotland.

We will continue to consider what additional measures might further support onshore wind deployment in Scotland, including repowering, as we work with industry to deliver our shared ambitions.

There are two walk-in services open in South Scotland, located in Hawick and Stranraer. Sites in East Ayrshire and Lanark are due to open in high street or former retail premises. These locations require longer lead times, as converting retail spaces into clinically compliant facilities must meet strict safety standards. I have committed to expanding the pilot programme and a Call for Proposals has been issued to Health Boards asking them to consider additional sites across Scotland.

Early work on the Commission has begun, with its Chair Fiona Taylor QPM appointed in March 2026.

In terms of next-steps, Ministers will work with Ms Taylor to finalise the Commission’s terms of reference, and a panel of experts will be appointed to support her. The Commission’s first meeting will take place once its members have been appointed. Updates (including the terms of reference) will be provided on the Scottish Government website in due course.

The Commission will undertake its work independently of government.

The Scottish Government engages regularly with the UK Government and the National Energy System Operator on development of the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP) through formal governance groups and bilateral meetings. Through that engagement the Scottish Government is continuing to press for Scotland’s offshore wind potential being fully reflected in the future SSEP.

The Commission will ensure that the value and importance of lived experience is respected and reflected in its approach to gathering and considering evidence to inform its recommendations.

This will include meaningful participation and engagement with people with direct experience of selling/exchanging sex - which will also be reflected in the Commission’s panel of experts.