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They want answers and they want action from us.I do not want devolution to be symbolised by the Holyrood building site instead of the new schools, hospitals and railways that we have built.
I repeat that the European Commission has sole competence on the issue. Scottish Executive officials have raised with the Commission the possible competition impact of Spanish tax benefits on Spanish companies' overseas acquisitions.
It would be welcome if it made that project happen and expanded the use of rail in place of lorry miles. I assure her that I will ask officials to examine the project closely to see whether our freight facilities grant mechanisms could provide assistance, if that is appropriate to the development of the project.
I would expect that, whoever the minister is, if technical and fundamental changes are being made to Scottish provisions, Scottish officials should be on the case as a matter of course.
Last year, the First Minister said in the chamber:"The mark of leadership in Scotland is to speak on the big issues of the day, but to do so honestly and consistently."—Official Report, 13 March 2003; c 19437.
However, I am well aware of the implications for livestock farmers and my officials in the Council working group are striving for a package that will protect the welfare of animals and safeguard the livestock industry in the Highlands and Islands.
A meeting took place with the chairman of Scottish Natural Heritage on 2 June to discuss the concerns that have been expressed. Today, officials discussed with SNH a package of measures that are designed to address those concerns and to ensure that the relocation is as smooth as possible.