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.”
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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 8 of 39.
“For Adam, George (Paisley) (SNP) Adam, Karen (Banffshire and Buchan Coast) (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) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) 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) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Coffey, Willie (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) 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) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) 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) Gallacher, Meghan (Central Scotland) (Con) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Gilruth, Jenny (Mid Fife and Glenrothes) (SNP) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) 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) Gulhane, Sandesh (Glasgow) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Haughey, Clare (Rutherglen) (SNP) Hepburn, Jamie (Cumbernauld and Kilsyth) (SNP) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Hyslop, Fiona (Linlithgow) (SNP) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) Kerr, Liam (North East Scotland) (Con) Kerr, Stephen (Central Scotland) (Con) Kidd, Bill (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP) Lennon, Monica (Central Scotland) (Lab) Leonard, Richard (Central Scotland) (Lab) 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) 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) McKee, Ivan (Glasgow Provan) (SNP) McLennan, Paul (East Lothian) (SNP) McMillan, Stuart (Greenock and Inverclyde) (SNP) McNair, Marie (Clydebank and Milngavie) (SNP) McNeill, Pauline (Glasgow) (Lab) Minto, Jenni (Argyll and Bute) (SNP) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) 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) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) 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) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on motion S6M-20717, in the name of Ivan McKee, on the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill at stage 3, is: For 103, Against 0, Abstentions 0.”
“There are two questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is, that motion S6M-20717, in the name of Ivan McKee, on the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill at stage 3, be agreed to. As this is a motion to pass a bill, the question must be decided by division. There will be a brief suspension, to allow members to access the digital voting system. 16:42 Meeting suspended. 16:43 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We will proceed with the division on motion S6M-20717, in the name of Ivan McKee, on the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill at stage 3.”
“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 such a motion. Motion moved, That, under Rule 11.2.4, Decision Time be brought forward to 4.41 pm.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to. Decision Time 16:41”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-20747, on a committee substitute. I ask Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, to move the motion. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that Jamie Greene be appointed to replace Alex Cole-Hamilton as the Scottish Liberal Democrats substitute on the Education, Children and Young People Committee.—[Graeme Dey] The Presiding Officer: The question on the motion will be put at decision time. Motion without Notice 16:41”
“Section 1—Community wealth building statement The Presiding Officer: Group 1 is on measures that may be taken. Amendment 1, in the name of Richard Leonard, is grouped with amendments 2, 13, 14, 5, 6, 17 and 18.”
“The next item of business is stage 3 proceedings on the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill. In dealing with the amendments, members should have the bill as amended at stage 2—that is, Scottish Parliament bill 62A—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 the 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 any 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 Community Wealth Building (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 3: 1 hour Groups 4 and 5: 1 hour 40 minutes.—[Lorna Slater] Motion agreed to. Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill: Stage 3 14:23”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-20723, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, setting out a timetable for the stage 3 consideration of the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill. I ask any member who wishes to speak to the motion to press their request-to-speak button. I call Lorna Slater to move the motion.”
“Topical Question Time 14:05 Allegations Concerning Former Chief Nursing Officer 1.”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-20746, 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 10 February 2026— delete 7.00 pm Decision Time and insert 5.05 pm Decision Time (b) Thursday 12 February 2026— after 2.30 pm Portfolio Questions: Social Justice and Housing insert followed by Ministerial Statement: Sentencing and Penal Policy Commission after followed by Motion on Legislative Consent: Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill – UK Legislation insert followed by Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body Motion: Amendments to the Scottish Parliament Salaries Scheme delete 5.00 pm Decision Time and insert 5.05 pm Decision Time—[Graeme Dey.] Motion agreed to.”
“Creating spaces where all young people feel included—through support, representation or accessible opportunities—can make a real difference. Voices that may be quieter are no less important and they deserve to be heard. Some young people, especially those who are marginalised or harder to reach, may need someone to gently extend a hand to bring them into the conversation and ensure that their experiences are valued. Let us pause, truly listen and create spaces where every young person’s experience is seen, valued and able to shape change. Let us extend a hand so that no young voice goes unheard. Business Motion 14:04”
“That shows the need for diverse representation and inclusion, which are essential for empowerment. I am grateful for my experience in the Scottish Youth Parliament, where I have met young people from many different backgrounds. Listening to their stories has widened my understanding and reminded me how diverse young people’s lives can be. Being included in conversations is crucial. When communication works well, it becomes easier to share ideas, build confidence and take part fully. When it does not work well, some voices remain quieter, even in spaces that aim to be inclusive. Empowerment grows when young people are truly listened to. When their voices are welcomed and communication works for everyone, even quieter voices can be heard.”
“Sometimes, people appear to be managing well on the surface, while their concerns remain unspoken—not because they have nothing to say, but because finding the right way to give feedback is not always easy, or because the space to share has not felt accessible. When communication is difficult, silence can be mistaken for agreement. Sometimes, it simply means that no one has asked. Distance or circumstances can add to that silence, and experiences can be overlooked quietly, making it harder to take part or be heard. As a deaf MSYP, I have met deaf young people who suddenly feel able to share their experiences with me. Those moments have reminded me how important language and trust are in giving people a voice. But I also wonder about young people, deaf or otherwise, in other areas where there is no one like me.”
“Good afternoon. The first item of business is time for reflection, and our time for reflection leader is Kristers Lukins, member of the Scottish Youth Parliament. Kristers Lukins (Scottish Youth Parliament): (simultaneous interpretation from British Sign Language) First, I thank the Presiding Officer and the members of the Scottish Parliament for inviting me to deliver this reflection. As a profoundly deaf BSL user and a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament, representing Dundee City West since 2024, I see how some voices can go unheard, and I want to share what that has taught me.”
“There are three questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is, that motion S6M-20606, in the name of Monica Lennon, on the Ecocide (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. 17:01 Meeting suspended. 17:04 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We come to the division on motion S6M-20606, in the name of Monica Lennon, on the Ecocide (Scotland) Bill at stage 1. Members should cast their votes now. The vote is closed.”
“The next item of business is consideration of motion S6M-20632, in the name of Shona Robison, on a financial resolution for the Restraint and Seclusion in Schools (Scotland) Bill. Motion moved, That the Parliament, for the purposes of any Act of the Scottish Parliament resulting from the Restraint and Seclusion in Schools (Scotland) Bill, agrees to any expenditure of a kind referred to in Rule 9.12.3A of the Parliament’s Standing Orders arising in consequence of the Act.—[Jenny Gilruth] The Presiding Officer: The question on the motion will be put at decision time. Decision Time 17:00”
“That concludes the debate on the Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill at stage 1. Restraint and Seclusion in Schools (Scotland) Bill: Financial Resolution 17:00”
“Thank you, Mr Mountain. The next item of business is a members’ business debate in the name of Clare Haughey. There will be a short suspension to allow those leaving the chamber and the gallery to do so. 12:48 Meeting suspended. 12:49 On resuming— Royal Burgh of Rutherglen (900th Anniversary)”
“I assure Mr Findlay that, in every circumstance, my Government will do all that we can with the resources that are available to us to support business, to support the growth and development of the Scottish economy—through its success, investment in it and the bringing in of jobs—and to ensure low levels of unemployment. That is because the Government is on the side of business and the economy in Scotland. Queen Elizabeth University Hospital 2.”
“Will John Swinney join us to settle this over a pint? The First Minister: I can think of nothing less appealing than having a pint with Russell Findlay. [Laughter.] I have a trip to the dentist that would be more preferable than going for a pint with Russell Findlay. [Interruption.] The Presiding Officer: Thank you! The First Minister: I am terribly sorry if that has been a wounding set of exchanges—I am typically generous in style in the Parliament, but I think that most of the Conservative Party would agree with me: a pint with Russell Findlay is totally unacceptable on any occasion. To be serious, I accept the significance of the issues. I also take deadly seriously what Sir Tom Hunter says. I engage with him regularly about a whole host of different issues and I welcome his contribution to Scottish public policy and policy debate.”
“That is part of the Scottish Government’s overall support for the business community when it faces challenges. Russell Findlay: Labour politicians were barred from pubs across the United Kingdom after Rachel Reeves’s damaging budget. Now, one of Scotland’s leading businessmen is calling for SNP ministers to be locked out from their locals, too. Sir Tom Hunter has described the SNP Government’s rates system as being “not fit for purpose.” He said: “Let’s ban every government minister … from their local pub until the business rates are fixed.” I am sure that many punters would raise a glass to that, but we do not want to give ministers an excuse not to buy a round, which is why I have spoken to Sir Tom Hunter. He has agreed to meet me and the First Minister at a pub to hear about Scotland’s pub crisis.”
“The First Minister: I acknowledge the implications for business of the increase in employer national insurance contributions. I have made the point on multiple occasions in the Parliament that I think that the Labour Government’s increases in employer national insurance contributions have been a damaging measure for growth in our economy. My Government has put in place measures to support the business community as a consequence of revaluation and as part of the support that we already have in place. We will introduce a revaluation transitional relief scheme to protect those that are experiencing the most significant increases in rateable values, ensuring that the gross bills for an estimated 60,000 properties will be lower in 2026-27 than they would otherwise have been.”
“Let us hear Mr Findlay. Russell Findlay: Scotland’s pubs are in the eye of a perfect storm from two anti-business Governments. Labour is hammering businesses with a crippling jobs tax in the form of national insurance increases, while the SNP fails to provide lifeline financial support through rates relief. Businesses are now reeling even more after being hit with eye-watering new rates bills. One Glasgow pub has been hit with a rise of 576 per cent. Those increases are inexplicable and unfair and will cost jobs. Stephen Montgomery of the Scottish Hospitality Group says that the SNP Government is punishing Scottish hospitality. He backs my party’s campaign to halt the devastating new tax rises. John Swinney has the power to act, so will he do so, or is he going to call last orders on Scotland’s pubs?”
“Please answer on the substantive question, cabinet secretary. Neil Gray: In addition to the progress that is being made in Lochgelly, there is progress for Kincardine. Further down the document from where we list Port Glasgow, East Calder and East Livingston, and Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly, Kincardine is also there in the list of projects in the first tranche of the work to be delivered through the revenue-based model. I am happy to assure Alex Rowley—and, as I am sitting next to the constituency representative for Kincardine, Ms Somerville, I assure her, too—that Kincardine is on the list and that that project will also be delivered as part of the work. Thrombectomy Services (Scottish Borders) 3.”
“The vote on the motion is therefore tied. As is usual when the Parliament has not been able to reach a decision, I am obliged to exercise a casting vote. The established convention is to vote in favour of the status quo, because the chair is required to act impartially. I therefore cast my vote against the motion, as amended. Motion, as amended, disagreed to. The Presiding Officer: The next question is, that amendment S6M-20654.2, in the name of Shona Robison, which seeks to amend motion S6M-20654, in the name of Craig Hoy, on opposing the Scottish Government’s proposed council tax rises, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division. Members should cast their votes now. The vote is closed.”
“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) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Coffey, Willie (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) 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) 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) Haughey, Clare (Rutherglen) (SNP) 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) 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) Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) 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) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) Against Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Briggs, Miles (Lothian) (Con) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Burnett, Alexander (Aberdeenshire West) (Con) Carlaw, Jackson (Eastwood) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) 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) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Greer, Ross (West Scotland) (Green) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Gulhane, Sandesh (Glasgow) (Con) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) 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) Mackay, Gillian (Central Scotland) (Green) Marra, Michael (North East Scotland) (Lab) 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) Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) Ross, Douglas (Highlands and Islands) (Con) 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) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on motion S6M-20653, in the name of Murdo Fraser, on saving Scottish hospitality, as amended, is: For 59, Against 59, Abstentions 0.”
“Amendment agreed to. The Presiding Officer: Therefore, the amendments in the names of Daniel Johnson and Willie Rennie fall. The next question is, that motion S6M-20653, in the name of Murdo Fraser, on saving Scottish hospitality, as amended, be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division.”
“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) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Coffey, Willie (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) 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) 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) Haughey, Clare (Rutherglen) (SNP) 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) 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) Robertson, Angus (Edinburgh Central) (SNP) Robison, Shona (Dundee City East) (SNP) Roddick, Emma (Highlands and Islands) (SNP) Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) 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) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) Against Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Briggs, Miles (Lothian) (Con) 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) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) 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) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Gulhane, Sandesh (Glasgow) (Con) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) 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) Marra, Michael (North East Scotland) (Lab) 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) 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) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) Abstentions Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Greer, Ross (West Scotland) (Green) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Mackay, Gillian (Central Scotland) (Green) Ruskell, Mark (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Green) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on amendment S6M-20653.3, in the name of Ivan McKee, is: For 58, Against 52, Abstentions 7.”
“18:16 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: I remind members that, if the amendment in the name of Ivan McKee is agreed to, the amendments in the names of Daniel Johnson and Willie Rennie will fall. The question is, that amendment S6M-20653.3, in the name of Ivan McKee, which seeks to amend motion S6M-20653, in the name of Murdo Fraser, on saving Scottish hospitality, be agreed. Members should cast their votes now.”
“There are 10 questions to be put as a result of today’s business. I remind members that, if the amendment in the name of Ivan McKee is agreed to, the amendments in the names of Daniel Johnson and Willie Rennie will fall. If the amendment in the name of Daniel Johnson is agreed to, the amendment in the name of Willie Rennie will fall. The first question is, that amendment S6M- 20653.3, in the name of Ivan McKee, which seeks to amend motion S6M-20653, in the name of Murdo Fraser, on saving Scottish hospitality, 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. 18:14 Meeting suspended.”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-20671, on approval of a Scottish statutory instrument. I ask Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, to move the motion. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that the Animal Health (Fixed Penalty Notices) (Scotland) Regulations 2026 [draft] be approved.—[Graeme Dey The Presiding Officer: The question on the motion will be put at decision time. Decision Time 18:13”
“The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motion S6M-20670, on approval of a statutory instrument. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that the Scotland Act 1998 (Modification of Schedule 5) Order 2026 [draft] be approved.—[Graeme Dey] 18:01”
“The Presiding Officer: The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M- 20669, in the name of Graeme Dey, on behalf of the Parliamentary Bureau, on timetabling of a bill at stage 1. Motion moved, That the Parliament agrees that consideration of the Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill at stage 1 be completed by 20 February 2026.—[Graeme Dey] Motion agreed to. Parliamentary Bureau Motions”
“5) Bill followed by Motion on Legislative Consent: Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill – UK Legislation followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.00 pm Decision Time Tuesday 17 February 2026 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 6.30 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 18 February 2026 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 Green Party Business followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.10 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 19 February 2026 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: Education and Skills followed by Scottish Government Debate: Scottish Income Tax Rate Resolution 2026-27 followed by Stage 1 Debate: Visitor Levy (Amendment) (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 9 February 2026, 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.”
“2) Bill – UK Legislation followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 5.10 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Thursday 12 February 2026 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 Stage 1 Debate: Budget (Scotland) (No.”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-20668, 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 10 February 2026 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions followed by Topical Questions followed by Stage 3 Proceedings: Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill followed by Committee Announcements followed by Business Motions followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions 7.00 pm Decision Time followed by Members’ Business Wednesday 11 February 2026 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 Motion on Legislative Consent: Finance (No.”
“It is time to move on to the next item of business, which is urgent questions. I will allow a moment or two for the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs to re-enter the chamber, and I will use this time to reiterate to all members that all business is follow-on business. Therefore, assumptions should not be made that the time on the paper will be the time. Thank you, cabinet secretary. I have had to delay business momentarily, and I would be grateful if you would take your seat as swiftly as possible. Automatic Early Release of”
“The next item of business is a debate on motion S6M-20525, in the name of Mark Ruskell, on a motion on reconsideration of the European Charter of Local Self-Government (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill. I would be grateful if members who wish to speak in the debate were to press their request-to- speak buttons. I call Mark Ruskell, the member in charge of the bill, to speak to and to move the motion. 17:08”
“That concludes the debate on opposing the Scottish Government’s proposed council tax rises. European Charter of Local Self- Government (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill”
“Scottish Games Network’s “Level Up Scotland: A National Action Plan for the Scottish Games Sector””
“Motion disagreed to. The Presiding Officer: The final question is, that motion S6M-20645, in the name of Jenny Gilruth, on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which is United Kingdom legislation, be agreed to. Motion agreed to, That the Parliament agrees that the relevant provisions of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, introduced in the House of Commons on 17 December 2024, and subsequently amended, relating to the new clause to be inserted after clause 64, which grants powers to the Scottish Ministers to make provision that is consequential on devolved aspects of clause 11 (Use of accommodation for deprivation of liberty), so far as these matters alter the executive competence of the Scottish Ministers, should be considered by the UK Parliament. The Presiding Officer: That concludes decision time.”
“For Baker, Claire (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Balfour, Jeremy (Lothian) (Ind) Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Briggs, Miles (Lothian) (Con) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Carlaw, Jackson (Eastwood) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Ewing, Annabelle (Cowdenbeath) (SNP) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) Findlay, Russell (West Scotland) (Con) Fraser, Murdo (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Gallacher, Meghan (Central Scotland) (Con) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Golden, Maurice (North East Scotland) (Con) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Gulhane, Sandesh (Glasgow) (Con) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) 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) Maguire, Ruth (Cunninghame South) (SNP) Marra, Michael (North East Scotland) (Lab) Mason, John (Glasgow Shettleston) (Ind) McCall, Roz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) McNeill, Pauline (Glasgow) (Lab) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) O’Kane, Paul (West Scotland) (Lab) Regan, Ash (Edinburgh Eastern) (Ind) Ross, Douglas (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Rowley, Alex (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Sarwar, Anas (Glasgow) (Lab) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Thomson, Michelle (Falkirk East) (SNP) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Whittle, Brian (South Scotland) (Con) Against 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) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Coffey, Willie (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) 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) Fairlie, Jim (Perthshire South and Kinross-shire) (SNP) FitzPatrick, Joe (Dundee City West) (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) Greer, Ross (West Scotland) (Green) Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Haughey, Clare (Rutherglen) (SNP) 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, Gillian (Central Scotland) (Green) Mackay, Rona (Strathkelvin and Bearsden) (SNP) Macpherson, Ben (Edinburgh Northern and Leith) (SNP) Martin, Gillian (Aberdeenshire East) (SNP) 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) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Nicoll, Audrey (Aberdeen South and North Kincardine) (SNP) Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) 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) Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Swinney, John (Perthshire North) (SNP) Todd, Maree (Caithness, Sutherland and Ross) (SNP) Torrance, David (Kirkcaldy) (SNP) Tweed, Evelyn (Stirling) (SNP) Yousaf, Humza (Glasgow Pollok) (SNP) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division on S6M-20627, in the name of Ash Regan, on the Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill at stage 1, is: For 54, Against 64, Abstentions 0.”
“There are two questions to be put as a result of today’s business. The first question is, that motion S6M-20627, in the name of Ash Regan, on the Prostitution (Offences and Support) (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. 18:53 Meeting suspended. 18:56 On resuming— The Presiding Officer: We move to the division on S6M-20627, in the name of Ash Regan, on the Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill at stage 1. Members should cast their votes now.”
“The next item of business is a debate on motion S6M-20645, in the name of Jenny Gilruth, on a legislative consent motion for the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which is United Kingdom legislation. I would be grateful if members who wish to speak would press their request-to-speak button. 18:48”
“Jim Wallace is a pillar of this Parliament. I feel truly privileged to have had an opportunity, particularly in recent years, at formal and less formal events to get to know Jim better. From the kirking of this session of Parliament to his visits as Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, I have learned so much from him. Most recently, we had great chats about family, fun and health. Jim Wallace knew what mattered most to people. With the people of Scotland, the Parliament mourns his passing, gives heartfelt thanks for his contribution and shares our deepest condolences with his family. 14:07”
“Jim Wallace was the most passionate of advocates for devolved government, and his persuasive and eloquent yet relatable contribution inspired confidence in the idea of this institution. He played a major part in securing the yes, yes vote that he worked so hard for, not just in TV and radio studios, but behind the scenes, where he worked collaboratively using the skills, experience and expertise that he carried so lightly and put to such great effect for the people of Scotland. This is my 27th year in the Scottish Parliament, and I know that, without Jim Wallace, Parliament would be a different place—a lesser one. Jim lived our parliamentary values of wisdom, integrity, justice and compassion, which were constantly demonstrated through his incredible career. His steadying hand in some challenging early days was just what was needed.”
“Our next item of business is a debate on motion S6M-20640, in the name of John Swinney, on a motion of condolence. Today, our flags fly at half mast as a mark of our respect for the Rt Hon Lord Wallace of Tankerness KC—Jim Wallace. We are honoured to welcome Jim’s wife, Rosie, daughters Helen and Clare, brother Neil and other close family and friends to our gallery today. The devolution referendum of 1997 was a major part of my political awakening, as I am sure it was for many in Scotland. It was an opportunity that spoke to a politics that sought to bring active democracy closer to the people. The question whether there should once more be a Scottish Parliament and what powers that Parliament might have was the debate of the time, and Jim Wallace’s role in it cannot be overstated.”
“The next item of business is consideration of business motion S6M-20663, 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 revision to the programme of business for Tuesday 3 February 2026— after 2.00 pm Time for Reflection followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions insert followed by Motion of Condolence followed by Parliamentary Bureau Motions—[Graeme Dey.] Motion agreed to. Motion of Condolence 14:05”
“To conclude, humanism is not an abstract concept but a lived practice—a guiding light for the everyday kindness of islanders and the deliberations of our Parliament. By rooting our decisions in reason, compassion, experience and inclusivity, we create a Scotland where every island, every community and every individual can flourish. Business Motion 14:04”
“Those principles are also woven into the spirit of the Scottish Parliament. Our devolved Government was founded on the promise of openness, accountability and accessibility for all Scots, whether they reside in bustling cities or in the most remote islands. Your commitment to public service mirrors the humanist belief that our decisions should foster the wellbeing of everyone, especially those whose voices risk being overlooked. Humanism teaches us to cherish diversity, celebrate local cultures and uphold individual rights. The islands, with their unique traditions and vibrant communities, remind us that progress must never come at the expense of identity or equality. This Parliament’s commitment to island communities reflects that ethos, ensuring that policies are shaped by lived experience.”