Chamber and committees

Thank you. That was very helpful. I turn now to Gordon MacRae.

I have one quick follow-up question.

We are talking about encapsulating the wider public. Could local and national Government better align their work to inform the public about climate change mitigation and adaptation, and to encourage people to change their behaviour and get involved in the things that we are talking about?

The public consultation on “Land Reform in a Net Zero Nation” closes on 30 October but I understand that that has recently been extended by five weeks. What has the response rate to the consultation been like to date?

Absolutely. Might new forms of democracy, such as climate citizens assemblies or local net zero forums, help to ensure community involvement? If so, how should those be initiated and supported? How do we ensure that if we take those steps everybody in the community is included and that it is not just the people who are usually involved in such things? As you say, we need to include everyone.

That would be fantastic. Thank you. I was going to ask why the consultation has been extended, but you covered that in your response.

Can you confirm whether there will be a knock-on effect on the timing for introducing the proposed legislation, which I believe is to be introduced before the end of 2023?

Okay, fantastic. Thank you.

Good morning. I am interested in the role of communities in this. What can the Scottish Government do to ensure that communities become key partners in achieving net zero? Is there a need for a fundamental change in culture and practice throughout local and central Government to include community groups? We have heard so far that inclusion has been quite sporadic in different local authorities. If so, what can be done to support it, whether that is training or guidance or more flexible funding options?

Climate change and the destruction of nature are twin emergencies that need to be treated with equal urgency. What is the Scottish Government’s assessment of the United Kingdom Government’s Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill and the impact that it could have on environmental standards here in Scotland?

Thank you—that is very helpful.