Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament 03 December 2015
03 Dec 2015 · S4 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
General Question Time
Lobbying (Scotland) Bill
The Government has sought to introduce a proportionate bill that balances the legitimate interests of Parliament, the public and wider society. It is widely recognised that face-to-face meetings with ministers and MSPs are seen as the most effective and influential means of communication. It is important to consider carefully whether any extension of the scope of the register would continue to be proportionate and simple, would not place a burden on organisations and, importantly, would not potentially lead to a barrier to the openness of the Parliament and the public’s desire to engage in democracy.
In the same item of business
2. Neil Findlay (Lothian) (Lab)
Lab
To ask the Scottish Government whether it considers that the Lobbying (Scotland) Bill is fit for purpose. (S4O-04895)
The Minister for Parliamentary Business (Joe FitzPatrick)
SNP
Yes.
Neil Findlay
Lab
I thank the minister for that detailed answer. Has he heard of such radical new technologies as the telephone, conference calls, computers and email? If so, ...
Joe FitzPatrick
SNP
The Government has sought to introduce a proportionate bill that balances the legitimate interests of Parliament, the public and wider society. It is widely ...
Cameron Buchanan (Lothian) (Con)
Con
It is vital in a democracy that the public can address their concerns to their elected representatives. What assurances can the Scottish Government give that...
Joe FitzPatrick
SNP
The member makes an interesting point. It is about balance. We have tried to bring forward a bill that is proportionate and balanced and, therefore, will inc...
The Presiding Officer
NPA
I call Annabel Goldie.
Annabel Goldie (West Scotland) (Con)
Con
Sorry. I was not proposing to come in, Presiding Officer.
The Presiding Officer
NPA
That is fine. You can sit down again. I will call you when you want to come in.