Chamber and committees

I refer the member to the answer to question: S6W-19833 on 31 July 2023. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament's website, the search facility for which can be found at https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/written-questions-and-answers .

Tarmac is the only cement plant in Scotland located in Dunbar. In 2021, they published their sustainability strategy, followed by the recent publication of Tarmac’s Net Zero Roadmap which state the paths to decarbonise their operations. Scottish Government officials are meeting with Tarmac in August 2023 to discuss Tarmac’s plans to lower emissions from cement production.

The information requested relates to Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) operational data and is not held by the Scottish Government. This is an operational matter for the SQA and I have asked the Chief Executive to write to you.

Yes, third sector organisations are still able to receive funding through the National Drugs Mission. This might be direct funding from the Scottish Government, via Corra, or as a result of local commissioning by ADPs.

The Scottish Government does not routinely discuss or publish legal advice received. In line with usual practice, the Scottish Government takes legal advice as and when required when preparing the Building a New Scotland series.

It will always be the case that a percentage of students will withdraw from Foundation placements The information as to the reason for withdrawal is limited based on the reliance of the student to provide the detail, but could be university related - either exam fails, or students were required to repeat their final year, or withdrawal due to personal circumstances.

(a) Percentage of allocated withdrawals from the total nominated number

The focus of our activity remains engagement with public sector organisations to seek reassurance of both their awareness and any action identified on this issue. Maintaining the safety of buildings is the responsibility of building owners, and this includes responsibility for any assessment of the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete in private sector buildings.

Authoritative guidance on identification and assessment of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete is already published by organisations such as the Institution of Structural Engineers. We continue to engage with the UK government and such organisations to understand and support broader action being taken to raise awareness of this risk topic across all sectors.

The following organisations have contacted The Scottish Government on the presence or suspected presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete within their building estate:

• NHS Scotland
• Police Scotland
• Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
• East Lothian Council
• West Lothian Council

We are in the process of contacting other public bodies to seek reassurance of both their awareness and of any action identified on this issue.

Scottish Government officials will continue to have discussions with the UK Government and the Health and Safety Executive on the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete in the built environment. This will enable a consistent and informed response on relevant reserved matters, such as health and safety legislation.

Owners are responsible for building maintenance and safety and should meet all relevant health and safety requirements related to those working in or using their buildings.