Alison Johnstone
No Party Affiliation · Scotland
“We will use the same voting procedure as before. Members voted by secret ballot. The Presiding Officer: Voting in this round of the Presiding Officer election is closed. I invite the scrutineers to proceed to the back of the chamber for the counting of votes. Again, candidates may also observe the count.”
“I now invite any scrutineers appointed by the candidates to go to the back of the chamber to observe the counting of ballot papers. Candidates may also observe the count.”
“The first meeting of the seventh session of the Parliament is resumed. I have received four valid nominations for the position of Presiding Officer. I shall now announce the nominations and ask all candidates, as their names are announced, to make themselves known to the chamber.”
“Ballot papers should be marked with an X before being folded and then placed in one of the ballot boxes provided at the rear of the chamber. At the end of each voting period, I shall invite any scrutineers that have been nominated by each candidate to monitor the counting of votes at the back of the chamber, which is where clerks will emp…”
“Members should remain in their seats until I invite them to collect their ballot paper from clerks at the back of the chamber. Members with surnames beginning with the letters A to F should collect their ballot papers from the desk on my left at the back of the chamber—the clerks there have their hands up.”
“15:29 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: This voting period is now open, using the same voting procedure as before. Members voted by secret ballot. The Presiding Officer: Voting in the third round of the election of the Presiding Officer is closed.”
The complete record
Every one of 1,933 lines we hold for Alison Johnstone, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 19 of 39.
“It is daunting when we move to a new community with different people from different backgrounds, yet, as I move, I see the same desire to make the community better. No matter the different circumstances of the community, the core drive of the church—to be love and to make better— remains. We have a belief that we can do more and be more than we are.”
“Good afternoon. The first item of business is time for reflection. Our time for reflection leader today is the Rev Bryan Kerr, parish minister at Greyfriars parish church, Lanark. The Rev Bryan Kerr (Greyfriars Parish Church, Lanark): Presiding Officer, First Minister and members, thank you for the invitation to lead you in this time for reflection. We all long for a better nation with better jobs, homes and care—and even better hope. Some will seek it publicly, others might pray, and still others will work in quiet and unseen ways to make life better for family, friends, neighbours, community and even strangers. I am in the process of moving from Greyfriars church in Lanark, where I have ministered for almost two decades, to be minister in Kilmacolm.”
“There are three questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is, that motion S6M-19128, in the name of Douglas Ross, on the Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill at stage 1, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division. There will be a short suspension to allow members to access the digital voting system. 17:26 Meeting suspended. 17:29 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We come to the vote on motion S6M-19128, in the name of Douglas Ross, on the Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill at stage 1. Members should cast their votes now. The vote is closed.”
“I am minded to accept a motion without notice, under rule 11.2.4 of standing orders, that decision time be brought forward to now. I invite the Minister for Parliamentary Business to move the motion. Motion moved, That, under Rule 11.2.4, Decision Time be brought forward to 5.26 pm.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to. Decision Time 17:26”
“The next item of business is consideration of motion S6M-19276, in the name of Gillian Martin, on the legislative consent motion for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which is United Kingdom legislation. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that the relevant provisions of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, introduced in the House of Commons on 11 March 2025, and subsequently amended, relating to clauses 18 to 24, 46 and 112, so far as these matters fall within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament or alter the executive competence of the Scottish Ministers, should be considered by the UK Parliament.—[Graeme Dey] 17:19”
“Let us hear Mr Findlay. Russell Findlay: They will not be clapping in a minute. The same John Swinney has dreamed about breaking up the United Kingdom for almost 50 years. He was at the forefront of the free by 93 campaign. He first became leader of the Scottish National Party at the turn of the millennium. In 2014, he played a crucial role in the—losing—yes campaign. Thank you, John. Last year, he became SNP leader again. He really thinks that it is plausible to describe his latest independence paper as a fresh start. Is John Swinney having a laugh? The Presiding Officer: Use full names at all times, please.”
“Good morning. The first item of business is general question time. Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (Bus Franchising) 1.”
“There are nine questions to be put as a result of today’s business. I remind members that if the amendment in the name of Màiri McAllan is agreed to, the amendment in the name of Mark Griffin will fall. The first question is, that amendment S6M- 19252.5, in the name of Màiri McAllan, which seeks to amend motion S6M-19252, in the name of Russell Findlay, on stopping illegal immigration and recognising its impact on housing, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There be a division. There will be a short suspension to allow members to access the digital voting system. 18:45 Meeting suspended. 18:47 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: I remind members that if the amendment in the name of Màiri McAllan is agreed to, the amendment in the name of Mark Griffin will fall. Members should cast their votes now.”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-19268, on suspension of standing orders. I invite Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, to move the motion. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees, for the purposes of consideration of the supplementary legislative consent memorandum on the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill, Rules 9B.3.5 and 9B.3.6 of Standing Orders are suspended.—[Graeme Dey] 18:40”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-19267, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, setting out a business programme. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees— (a) the following programme of business— Tuesday 28 October 2025 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions (if selected) followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Land Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 10.00 pm Decision Time Wednesday 29 October 2025 2.00 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.00 pm Portfolio Questions: Deputy First Minister Responsibilities, Economy and Gaelic; Finance and Local Government followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Land Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Approval of SSIs (if required) 10.00 pm Decision Time Thursday 30 October 2025 11.40 am Parliamentary Bureau Motions 11.40 am General Questions 12.00 pm First Minister’s Questions followed by Members’ Business 2.30 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.30 pm Portfolio Questions: Climate Action and Energy, and Transport followed by Stage 1 Debate: Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution: Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Tuesday 4 November 2025 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions (if selected) followed by Social Justice and Social Security Committee Debate: Financial Considerations When Leaving an Abusive Relationship followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Land Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 5 November 2025 2.00 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.00 pm Portfolio Questions: Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands; Health and Social Care followed by Scottish Labour Party Business followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Approval of SSIs (if required) 5.10 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 6 November 2025 11.40 am Parliamentary Bureau Motions 11.40 am General Questions 12.00 pm First Minister’s Questions followed by Members’ Business 2.30 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.30 pm Portfolio Questions: Social Justice and Housing followed by Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments Committee Debate: Strengthening Committees’ Effectiveness followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time (b) that, for the purposes of Portfolio Questions in the week beginning 27 October 2025, in rule 13.7.3, after the word “except” the words “to the extent to which the Presiding Officer considers that the questions are on the same or similar subject matter or” are inserted.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to.”
“There is one question to be put as a result of today’s business. The question is, that motion S6M-19221, in the name of Angela Constance, on the Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill at stage 3, be agreed to. As this is a motion to pass the bill at stage 3, the question must be decided by division. There will be a short suspension to allow members to access the digital voting system. 16:37 Meeting suspended. 16:40 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We come to the vote on motion S6M-19221, in the name of Angela Constance, on the Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill at stage 3. Members should cast their votes now. The vote is closed.”
“I am minded to accept a motion without notice, under rule 11.2.4 of standing orders, that decision time be brought forward to now. I invite the Minister for Parliamentary Business to move the motion. Motion moved, That, under Rule 11.2.4, Decision Time be brought forward to 4.37 pm.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to. Decision Time 16:37”
“Section 2—Virtual attendance at court The Presiding Officer: Group 1 is on virtual attendance. Amendment 58, in the name of Pauline McNeill, is grouped with amendments 59, 2, 60 and 1.”
“The next item of business is stage 3 proceedings on the Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill. In dealing with the amendments, members should have the bill as amended at stage 2—that is, Scottish Parliament bill 52A—the marshalled list and the groupings of amendments. The division bell will sound and proceedings will be suspended for around five minutes for the first division of stage 3. The period of voting for the first division will be 30 seconds. Thereafter, I will allow a voting period of one minute for the first division after a debate. Members who wish to speak in the debate on a group of amendments should press their request-to-speak buttons or enter “RTS” in the chat as soon as possible after the group has been called. Members should now refer to the marshalled list of amendments.”
“Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that, during stage 3 of the Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill, debate on groups of amendments shall, subject to Rule 9.8.4A, be brought to a conclusion by the time limits indicated, those time limits being calculated from when the stage begins and excluding any periods when other business is under consideration or when a meeting of the Parliament is suspended or otherwise not in progress: Groups 1 to 2: 50 minutes Groups 3 to 4: 1 hour 30 minutes Groups 5 to 8: 2 hours 15 minutes Groups 9 to 11: 2 hours 45 minutes.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to. Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill: Stage 3 14:20”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-19228, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, setting out a timetable for stage 3 consideration of the Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill. I ask any member who wishes to speak to the motion to press their request-to-speak button.”
“Topical Question Time 14:04 Child Poverty Reduction (Interim and Final Targets) 1.”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-19264, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, on changes to business. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees to the following revisions to the programme of business for— (a) Tuesday 7 October 2025— delete 6.00 pm Decision Time and insert 6.10 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business (b) Wednesday 8 October 2025— after followed by Ministerial Statement: Secure Accommodation – Capacity and Future of Secure insert followed by Scottish Government Debate: Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 (Scottish Carbon Budgets) Amendment Regulations 2025 delete 5.40 Decision Time and insert 6.40 pm Decision Time (c) Thursday 9 October 2025— after followed by Stage 1 Debate: Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill insert followed by Motion on Legislative Consent: Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill – UK Legislation delete 5.00 pm Decision Time and insert 5.30 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business—[Graeme Dey.] Motion agreed to.”
“For instance, seek out and support the work in your neighbourhoods that makes a difference and benefits locals. The charity that I lead supports communities through, for example, distributing meals to those in need and by saving hundreds of lives annually through our Imam Hussain blood donation campaign, in partnership with the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service—an outcome that benefits all and discriminates against none. My take, for reflection beyond just the chamber, is that, were every Scot to care for their neighbours, they would be cared for and Scotland not only would be made resilient to the trials of today, but would rise to the opportunities of tomorrow. [Applause.] The Presiding Officer: Thank you very much indeed. Business Motion 14:04”
“I believe that you, those who came before you and those who will come after you possess a deep concern for the wellbeing of the communities and neighbourhoods that you represent. My food for thought is the conjecture that, if each and every Scot were to embody that principle, taking responsibility for the wellbeing of their many neighbours, we would flourish. Loving one’s neighbour might represent a defining value in the culture that you and I aspire to. That matters, because our nation faces serious challenges, pressures and divisions, which are not abstractions but lived struggles—or tragedies, as we have lately seen. A neighbourly duty of care empowers us to contribute to the solution. I believe that that is our collective superpower: a compassion that invites us to co-operate to look after one another, irrespective of differences.”
“The Noble Lady Fatima, daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, who is recognised for her commitment, more than a millennium ago, to the dignity and wellbeing of ordinary people, said that before one’s household comes one’s neighbour. All faiths share a similar principle. What is the intimation? It speaks to the observance of compassion, inviting us to spare a thought for, and extend a hand to, our neighbours, regardless of who they may be—to look beyond the walls of our own households at our neighbourhoods, which constitute 40 houses from one’s own in every direction. I believe that some approximation of that principle drives you, as elected members of the Scottish Parliament, irrespective of your political leaning or background. It is a principle that you share with not only me but one another.”
“Good afternoon. Our first item of business is time for reflection, for which our leader is Ali Hussnain, co-chair of the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society—SABS. Ali Hussnain (Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society): Presiding Officer and members of the Scottish Parliament, as-salaamu ’alaikum—peace be upon you—and thank you for the privilege of being able to lead this time for reflection. I am an ordinary proud Scot. By profession, I am a software technology director, but I speak as a Shia Muslim who has volunteered with SABS in local communities across the central belt for 14 years. I want to share the driving force for our charity’s work, which is a principle from the Islamic tradition.”
“There is one question to be put as a result of today’s business. The question is, that motion S6M-19121, in the name of Maurice Golden, on the Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill at stage 1, be agreed to. Motion agreed to, That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill. The Presiding Officer: That concludes decision time. Give Blood 4 Good”
“There is a great amount of interest in this item of business, but we must have more concise questions and responses, and we must hear one another. Stephen Kerr: If the minister, who I like—and who, by the way, has been badly served by whoever wrote his answers—has admiration for Colleges Scotland, why is the Government cutting college funding? That is not according to the Conservatives but according to Audit Scotland, whose honesty I greatly admire for bringing to light these facts. Audit Scotland is warning us that colleges are being forced to prioritise cheaper courses over costlier courses, which are the ones that are in demand by employers. Apprenticeship demand is going unmet.”
“In conclusion, I hope that members will support the general principles of the bill at decision time, that we can leave with a spring in our step and our tails up, and that dog owners, dog lovers and other stakeholders can be reassured that the Parliament recognises that the theft of a dog is a horrific crime that leads to emotional trauma and heartbreak, and that it must be treated accordingly by the law. The Presiding Officer: That concludes the debate on the Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill at stage 1. Urgent Question 16:50 “Scotland’s colleges 2025””
“Please make it brief, as Maurice Golden must begin to conclude. Christine Grahame: On the point that we are dealing with, which is covered in section 1(2), I ask the member to reflect on what to do when there is a dispute of ownership between those in a cohabiting or a married couple, which is probably one of the most difficult issues to deal with when considering the bill. Maurice Golden: Yes, but that strays into an area that is perhaps beyond a member’s bill on dog theft, which has a very tight scope. However, the point that Elena Whitham made should be addressed urgently.”
“We have free eye examinations in Scotland—a great preventative measure that helps with the cost of living—and we also have students who go to university without paying any tuition fees, unlike the situation in England. In Scotland, we make responsible use of public finances, compared with the chaos and austerity of the Conservatives, and I am proud to defend the record of this Government. The Presiding Officer: Many members wish to put questions today. We will be better able to get more members in if we conduct ourselves appropriately. Colleges 2.”
“Whether John Swinney likes it or not, it is a fact that people in Scotland are worse off after 18 years of SNP Government. Workers could face a double whammy of taxes in the upcoming Labour and SNP budgets. Is that all John Swinney has to offer Scotland—higher bills and worse public services? The First Minister: I point out to Mr Findlay that the Scottish Government operates and delivers a balanced budget in every single year and that we have done so since 2007. In relation to household bills, I have already cited the impact of the step that we have taken on peak rail fares. Council tax in Scotland is lower than for comparable properties in England, water bills are lower in Scotland than in England, and we have free prescriptions that help household incomes here in Scotland.”
“This Government is absolutely committed to ensuring that we invest in our college sector to support students to move on to positive destinations, but the challenges that we face in managing our public finances have not in any way been helped by the austerity policies of the Conservatives and the folly of the Liz Truss budget, which Russell Findlay supported. Russell Findlay: He always comes unstuck when he comes face to face with the facts produced by Audit Scotland. Cutting college funding limits the opportunities for young people and harms our economy. The SNP’s chaotic and irresponsible approach means that there is less money for schools, hospitals, roads and everything else that needs to be fixed. Public services keep declining, yet taxes, household bills and everyday costs continue to rise.”
“Will John Swinney commit to reversing that cut, for the good of young Scots and for the good of Scotland’s economy? The First Minister: First, as a consequence of the Government’s investment and of our approach to the education system, 93 per cent of young people who leave school go on to positive destinations such as work, training—[Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Let us hear the First Minister. The First Minister: —or further study, including attendance at our colleges. The most recent Scottish Funding Council allocations provided a 2.6 per cent increase in teaching funding for 2025-26 and an increase of almost 5 per cent in capital maintenance funding to help colleges invest further in the learning experience of students.”
“Russell Findlay: This First Minister leads a Government that does not know the difference between fact and fiction. Workers in Scotland know exactly how much tax the SNP is forcing them to pay. The next Scottish budget must bring down costs for families and businesses, but it must also give greater opportunities to young people. The SNP has inflicted economic damage on Scotland by slashing college budgets. Today, Audit Scotland revealed that the Scottish Government has cut college funding by 20 per cent in real terms since the most recent Holyrood election. SNP cuts mean fewer people going to college, learning new skills and advancing their careers. Reducing funding for colleges directly harms economic growth, which is something that the SNP does not seem to understand.”
“The First Minister: It is a duty that I faithfully deploy, and I will also point it out when Mr Findlay misleads the Parliament with incorrect information—[Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Thank you. The First Minister: Mr Findlay knows full well— [Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: We are not having pointing and shouting from our seats. First Minister, please continue. The First Minister: Mr Findlay knows full well that the Government will set out its tax plans in the budget in an orderly and rational fashion. As a consequence of that, the Parliament will be able to scrutinise the Government’s financial provisions. I reiterate the point that I have just made: more than half of taxpayers in Scotland continue to pay less than they would if they lived elsewhere in the United Kingdom. I am very proud of that fact.”
“Let us hear Mr Findlay. Russell Findlay: Will John Swinney rule out any tax rises for workers in Scotland in his next budget? The First Minister: As part of my public duty, I must correct what Mr Findlay has said. Mr Findlay was wrong, because more than half of taxpayers in Scotland continue to pay less tax than they would if they lived elsewhere in the United Kingdom. I know that it is important that we all speak accurately to Parliament. It is a duty— [Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Let us hear the First Minister. The First Minister: It is a duty that I faithfully deploy—[Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Colleagues, let us hear one another.”
“Amendment disagreed to. The Presiding Officer: The next question is, that motion S6M-19123, in the name of Pam Duncan-Glancy, on mobile phones in schools, as amended, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division. The vote is closed.”
“For Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Burnett, Alexander (Aberdeenshire West) (Con) Carlaw, Jackson (Eastwood) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Cole-Hamilton, Alex (Edinburgh Western) (LD) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Fraser, Murdo (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Golden, Maurice (North East Scotland) (Con) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Kerr, Liam (North East Scotland) (Con) Kerr, Stephen (Central Scotland) (Con) Lennon, Monica (Central Scotland) (Lab) Leonard, Richard (Central Scotland) (Lab) Lumsden, Douglas (North East Scotland) (Con) McArthur, Liam (Orkney Islands) (LD) McCall, Roz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) McNeill, Pauline (Glasgow) (Lab) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) Regan, Ash (Edinburgh Eastern) (Alba) Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) Ross, Douglas (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Rowley, Alex (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Sarwar, Anas (Glasgow) (Lab) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Villalba, Mercedes (North East Scotland) (Lab) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) Wishart, Beatrice (Shetland Islands) (LD) [Proxy vote cast by Willie Rennie] Against Adam, Karen (Banffshire and Buchan Coast) (SNP) Adamson, Clare (Motherwell and Wishaw) (SNP) Allan, Alasdair (Na h-Eileanan an Iar) (SNP) Arthur, Tom (Renfrewshire South) (SNP) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Constance, Angela (Almond Valley) (SNP) Dey, Graeme (Angus South) (SNP) Don-Innes, Natalie (Renfrewshire North and West) (SNP) Doris, Bob (Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn) (SNP) Dornan, James (Glasgow Cathcart) (SNP) Dunbar, Jackie (Aberdeen Donside) (SNP) Ewing, Annabelle (Cowdenbeath) (SNP) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) Fairlie, Jim (Perthshire South and Kinross-shire) (SNP) FitzPatrick, Joe (Dundee City West) (SNP) Forbes, Kate (Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch) (SNP) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Gilruth, Jenny (Mid Fife and Glenrothes) (SNP) Gougeon, Mairi (Angus North and Mearns) (SNP) Grahame, Christine (Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale) (SNP) Gray, Neil (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP) Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Hepburn, Jamie (Cumbernauld and Kilsyth) (SNP) Hyslop, Fiona (Linlithgow) (SNP) Kidd, Bill (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP) Lochhead, Richard (Moray) (SNP) MacDonald, Gordon (Edinburgh Pentlands) (SNP) MacGregor, Fulton (Coatbridge and Chryston) (SNP) Mackay, Rona (Strathkelvin and Bearsden) (SNP) Macpherson, Ben (Edinburgh Northern and Leith) (SNP) Maguire, Ruth (Cunninghame South) (SNP) Martin, Gillian (Aberdeenshire East) (SNP) Mason, John (Glasgow Shettleston) (Ind) Matheson, Michael (Falkirk West) (SNP) McAllan, Màiri (Clydesdale) (SNP) McKee, Ivan (Glasgow Provan) (SNP) McLennan, Paul (East Lothian) (SNP) McMillan, Stuart (Greenock and Inverclyde) (SNP) McNair, Marie (Clydebank and Milngavie) (SNP) Minto, Jenni (Argyll and Bute) (SNP) Nicoll, Audrey (Aberdeen South and North Kincardine) (SNP) Robertson, Angus (Edinburgh Central) (SNP) Robison, Shona (Dundee City East) (SNP) Roddick, Emma (Highlands and Islands) (SNP) Ruskell, Mark (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Green) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) [Proxy vote cast by Fulton MacGregor] Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Thomson, Michelle (Falkirk East) (SNP) Torrance, David (Kirkcaldy) (SNP) Tweed, Evelyn (Stirling) (SNP) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on amendment S6M-19123.1, in the name of Miles Briggs, is: For 49, Against 62, Abstentions 0.”
“Amendment agreed to. The Presiding Officer: The next question is, that amendment S6M-19123.1, in the name of Miles Briggs, which seeks to amend motion S6M- 19123, in the name of Pam Duncan-Glancy, on mobile phones in schools, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division.”
“For Adam, Karen (Banffshire and Buchan Coast) (SNP) Adamson, Clare (Motherwell and Wishaw) (SNP) Allan, Alasdair (Na h-Eileanan an Iar) (SNP) Arthur, Tom (Renfrewshire South) (SNP) Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Burnett, Alexander (Aberdeenshire West) (Con) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Carlaw, Jackson (Eastwood) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Constance, Angela (Almond Valley) (SNP) Dey, Graeme (Angus South) (SNP) Don-Innes, Natalie (Renfrewshire North and West) (SNP) Doris, Bob (Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn) (SNP) Dornan, James (Glasgow Cathcart) (SNP) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Dunbar, Jackie (Aberdeen Donside) (SNP) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Ewing, Annabelle (Cowdenbeath) (SNP) Fairlie, Jim (Perthshire South and Kinross-shire) (SNP) FitzPatrick, Joe (Dundee City West) (SNP) Forbes, Kate (Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch) (SNP) Fraser, Murdo (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Gilruth, Jenny (Mid Fife and Glenrothes) (SNP) Golden, Maurice (North East Scotland) (Con) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) Gougeon, Mairi (Angus North and Mearns) (SNP) Grahame, Christine (Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale) (SNP) Gray, Neil (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Hepburn, Jamie (Cumbernauld and Kilsyth) (SNP) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Hyslop, Fiona (Linlithgow) (SNP) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Kerr, Liam (North East Scotland) (Con) Kerr, Stephen (Central Scotland) (Con) Kidd, Bill (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP) Lochhead, Richard (Moray) (SNP) Lumsden, Douglas (North East Scotland) (Con) MacDonald, Gordon (Edinburgh Pentlands) (SNP) MacGregor, Fulton (Coatbridge and Chryston) (SNP) Mackay, Rona (Strathkelvin and Bearsden) (SNP) Macpherson, Ben (Edinburgh Northern and Leith) (SNP) Maguire, Ruth (Cunninghame South) (SNP) Martin, Gillian (Aberdeenshire East) (SNP) Mason, John (Glasgow Shettleston) (Ind) Matheson, Michael (Falkirk West) (SNP) McAllan, Màiri (Clydesdale) (SNP) McCall, Roz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) McKee, Ivan (Glasgow Provan) (SNP) McLennan, Paul (East Lothian) (SNP) McMillan, Stuart (Greenock and Inverclyde) (SNP) McNair, Marie (Clydebank and Milngavie) (SNP) Minto, Jenni (Argyll and Bute) (SNP) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) Nicoll, Audrey (Aberdeen South and North Kincardine) (SNP) Robertson, Angus (Edinburgh Central) (SNP) Robison, Shona (Dundee City East) (SNP) Roddick, Emma (Highlands and Islands) (SNP) Ross, Douglas (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Ruskell, Mark (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Green) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) [Proxy vote cast by Fulton MacGregor] Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Thomson, Michelle (Falkirk East) (SNP) Torrance, David (Kirkcaldy) (SNP) Tweed, Evelyn (Stirling) (SNP) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) Against Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Cole-Hamilton, Alex (Edinburgh Western) (LD) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) Lennon, Monica (Central Scotland) (Lab) Leonard, Richard (Central Scotland) (Lab) McArthur, Liam (Orkney Islands) (LD) McNeill, Pauline (Glasgow) (Lab) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Regan, Ash (Edinburgh Eastern) (Alba) Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) Rowley, Alex (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Sarwar, Anas (Glasgow) (Lab) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Villalba, Mercedes (North East Scotland) (Lab) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Wishart, Beatrice (Shetland Islands) (LD) [Proxy vote cast by Willie Rennie] The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on amendment S6M-19123.2, in the name of Jenny Gilruth, is: For 85, Against 26, Abstentions 0.”
“There are seven questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is, that amendment S6M-19123.2, in the name of Jenny Gilruth, which seeks to amend motion S6M-19123, in the name of Pam Duncan-Glancy, on mobile phones in schools, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a short suspension to allow members to access the digital voting system. 17:53 Meeting suspended. 17:56 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We come to the vote on amendment S6M-19123.2, in the name of Jenny Gilruth. Members should cast their votes now.”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-19139, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, on approval of a Scottish statutory instrument. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that the Climate Change (Local Development Plan) (Repeals) (Scotland) Order 2025 [draft] be approved.—[Graeme Dey] The Presiding Officer: The question on the motion will be put at decision time. Decision Time 17:53”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-19136, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, setting out a business programme. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees— (a) the following programme of business— Tuesday 7 October 2025 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions (if selected) followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 6.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 8 October 2025 2.00 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.00 pm Portfolio Questions: Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, and Parliamentary Business; Justice and Home Affairs followed by Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Business followed by Ministerial Statement: Secure Accommodation – Capacity and Future of Secure followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Approval of SSIs (if required) 5.40 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 9 October 2025 11.40 am Parliamentary Bureau Motions 11.40 am General Questions 12.00 pm First Minister’s Questions followed by Members’ Business 2.00 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.00 pm Portfolio Questions: Education and Skills followed by Ministerial Statement: Youth Mental Health Support followed by Stage 1 Debate: Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill followed by Motion on Legislative Consent: Planning and Infrastructure Bill - UK Legislation followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time Tuesday 28 October 2025 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions (if selected) followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Land Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 9.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 29 October 2025 2.00 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.00 pm Portfolio Questions: Deputy First Minister Responsibilities, Economy and Gaelic; Finance and Local Government followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Land Reform (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Approval of SSIs (if required) 9.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 30 October 2025 11.40 am Parliamentary Bureau Motions 11.40 am General Questions 12.00 pm First Minister’s Questions followed by Members’ Business 2.30 pm Parliamentary Bureau Motions 2.30 pm Portfolio Questions: Climate Action and Energy, and Transport followed by Stage 1 Debate: Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill followed by Financial Resolution: Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time (b) that, for the purposes of Portfolio Questions in the week beginning 6 October 2025, in rule 13.7.3, after the word “except” the words “to the extent to which the Presiding Officer considers that the questions are on the same or similar subject matter or” are inserted.—[Graeme Dey] 17:42”
“Published in Edinburgh by the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body, the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP All documents are available on the Scottish Parliament website at: www.parliament.scot Information on non-endorsed print suppliers is available here: www.parliament.scot/documents For information on the Scottish Parliament contact Public Information on: Telephone: 0131 348 5000 Textphone: 0800 092 7100 Email: sp.info@parliament.scot”
“Motion agreed to, That the Parliament agrees that the Housing (Scotland) Bill be passed. [Applause.] The Presiding Officer: The final question is, that motion S6M-19135, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, on committee membership be agreed to. Motion agreed to, That the Parliament agrees that Sarah Boyack be appointed as a member of the Economy and Fair Work Committee. Meeting closed at 21:26. This is the final edition of the Official Report for this meeting. It is part of the Scottish Parliament Official Report archive and has been sent for legal deposit.”
“For Adam, George (Paisley) (SNP) Adam, Karen (Banffshire and Buchan Coast) (SNP) Adamson, Clare (Motherwell and Wishaw) (SNP) Allan, Alasdair (Na h-Eileanan an Iar) (SNP) Arthur, Tom (Renfrewshire South) (SNP) Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Cole-Hamilton, Alex (Edinburgh Western) (LD) Constance, Angela (Almond Valley) (SNP) Dey, Graeme (Angus South) (SNP) Don-Innes, Natalie (Renfrewshire North and West) (SNP) Doris, Bob (Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn) (SNP) Dornan, James (Glasgow Cathcart) (SNP) Dunbar, Jackie (Aberdeen Donside) (SNP) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Fairlie, Jim (Perthshire South and Kinross-shire) (SNP) FitzPatrick, Joe (Dundee City West) (SNP) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Gilruth, Jenny (Mid Fife and Glenrothes) (SNP) Gougeon, Mairi (Angus North and Mearns) (SNP) Grahame, Christine (Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale) (SNP) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Gray, Neil (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Greer, Ross (West Scotland) (Green) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Hepburn, Jamie (Cumbernauld and Kilsyth) (SNP) Hyslop, Fiona (Linlithgow) (SNP) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) Kidd, Bill (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP) Lennon, Monica (Central Scotland) (Lab) Leonard, Richard (Central Scotland) (Lab) Lochhead, Richard (Moray) (SNP) MacDonald, Gordon (Edinburgh Pentlands) (SNP) MacGregor, Fulton (Coatbridge and Chryston) (SNP) Mackay, Gillian (Central Scotland) (Green) [Proxy vote cast by Ross Greer] Mackay, Rona (Strathkelvin and Bearsden) (SNP) Macpherson, Ben (Edinburgh Northern and Leith) (SNP) Maguire, Ruth (Cunninghame South) (SNP) Marra, Michael (North East Scotland) (Lab) Martin, Gillian (Aberdeenshire East) (SNP) Mason, John (Glasgow Shettleston) (Ind) Matheson, Michael (Falkirk West) (SNP) McAllan, Màiri (Clydesdale) (SNP) McArthur, Liam (Orkney Islands) (LD) McKee, Ivan (Glasgow Provan) (SNP) McLennan, Paul (East Lothian) (SNP) McMillan, Stuart (Greenock and Inverclyde) (SNP) McNair, Marie (Clydebank and Milngavie) (SNP) Minto, Jenni (Argyll and Bute) (SNP) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Nicoll, Audrey (Aberdeen South and North Kincardine) (SNP) O’Kane, Paul (West Scotland) (Lab) [Proxy vote cast by Michael Marra] Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) Robertson, Angus (Edinburgh Central) (SNP) Robison, Shona (Dundee City East) (SNP) Roddick, Emma (Highlands and Islands) (SNP) Rowley, Alex (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Ruskell, Mark (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Green) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Sarwar, Anas (Glasgow) (Lab) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) [Proxy vote cast by Fulton MacGregor] Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Swinney, John (Perthshire North) (SNP) Thomson, Michelle (Falkirk East) (SNP) Todd, Maree (Caithness, Sutherland and Ross) (SNP) Torrance, David (Kirkcaldy) (SNP) Tweed, Evelyn (Stirling) (SNP) Villalba, Mercedes (North East Scotland) (Lab) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Wishart, Beatrice (Shetland Islands) (LD) [Proxy vote cast by Willie Rennie] Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) Against Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Briggs, Miles (Lothian) (Con) Burnett, Alexander (Aberdeenshire West) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Findlay, Russell (West Scotland) (Con) Fraser, Murdo (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Gallacher, Meghan (Central Scotland) (Con) Golden, Maurice (North East Scotland) (Con) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Kerr, Liam (North East Scotland) (Con) Kerr, Stephen (Central Scotland) (Con) Lumsden, Douglas (North East Scotland) (Con) McCall, Roz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) Regan, Ash (Edinburgh Eastern) (Alba) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on motion S6M-18992, in the name of Màiri McAllan, on the Housing (Scotland) Bill at stage 3, is: For 89, Against 28, Abstentions 0.”
“There are two questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is on motion S6M-18992, on the Housing (Scotland) Bill at stage 3. As it is a motion to pass a bill, the question must be decided by division. I would be grateful if members, who have been voting throughout the afternoon, were to refresh their screens. The question is, that motion S6M-18992, in the name of Màiri McAllan, on the Housing (Scotland) Bill at stage 3, be agreed to. Members should cast their votes now.”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-19135, on committee membership. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that Sarah Boyack be appointed as a member of the Economy and Fair Work Committee.—[Graeme Dey] The Presiding Officer: The question on the motion will be put at decision time. Decision Time 21:24”
“The next item of business is an announcement by the Delegated Powers and Law Reform Committee on instruments considered during the first quarter of parliamentary year 2025-26. I call Stuart McMillan, the convener of the committee, to make the announcement. 21:21”
“To me, that is what a home is: it is that little burning light against a dark, cold morning. That is exactly what the Government wants—it wants that opportunity to be available to everybody in Scotland. Through a combination of the bill and our housing emergency action plan, we are absolutely providing that to the people of Scotland. Committee Announcement (Delegated Powers and Law Reform Committee)”
“Màiri McAllan: I am just coming to an end—I realise that it has been a long session for everybody. I was asked recently what a home meant to me, and I answered, fairly off the cuff, that it was about safety, relaxation and a place to spend time with family. However, I have been thinking about it since, and it reminds me of something that I used to do when I was training as a lawyer. I would be travelling early in the morning, trying to get to work before the partners—although that never worked out. It was always dark, and I would just sit and rest my head against the bus or train window and look at all the houses that I was passing. Some of them would be in darkness, where the family was still asleep. Some of them would have a little sign of life—a smoking chimney—and others would have a little glowing light.”
“On the other hand, I have to appeal to Green colleagues to see that the care and balance that I and Willie Rennie have been talking about are absolutely critical to our housing system. The exemptions that I began by talking about are therefore very important. What the Government has presented in the bill responds to the needs of tenants who are struggling with escalating rents; equally, it provides confidence and ensures investment in our housing system that will ultimately increase availability and, therefore, affordability. I was asked recently what a home meant to me—[Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: It is fair to say that this debate has been carried on over several days in a courteous environment. I would be grateful if we could carry that through to the end.”
“Today, I hope that we will vote for a bill that will prevent homelessness in the first place, that will protect tenants from damp and mould, that will support the housing needs of women who are suffering domestic abuse— [Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Let us hear one another. Màiri McAllan: —that will create rights for tenants to end their tenancies and to personalise their homes, and that will create a system of evidence-based rent controls. I am afraid that the characterisation of rent controls by members at both ends of the chamber is a little skewed and inaccurate. On the one hand, the Conservatives have to acknowledge the severe strain that tenants face when their rents become uncontrollable and begin to rise or escalate in an uncontrollable way. That feeds homelessness from the private rented sector.”