Meeting of the Parliament 24 March 2020
That concludes the debate on the Local Government Finance (Scotland) Order 2020.
We have a number of orders and motions to proceed through but, before we come to decision time, I would like to say a few words to members. Colleagues here will have seen the reduced parliamentary business schedule that we are about to vote on, which means that, after today, Parliament will not sit until next Wednesday. Parliamentary committees are similarly reducing their schedules. That is the right thing to do as we implement the public health advice and play our part in fighting Covid-19 and keeping our staff and constituents safe.
However, I reassure members that the situation is being kept under constant review, and my officials and I will continue to liaise closely with the Scottish Government and all the political parties to keep you fully updated.
I also make the point that parliamentary scrutiny will continue. Just as I know that you all remain available to your constituents via telephone, email and other channels, I remain contactable by members directly and through my private office.
We will take all necessary steps to keep members safe, but we will also, as members and as a Parliament, continue to function at this vital time.