Chamber and committees

You have referred, rightly, to victims and witnesses. Should there be more of a focus on witnesses, in addition to victims, in the criminal justice system? If so, what should the priorities be with regard to ensuring that witnesses get the support that they require and access to the support options that they need?

That is helpful. As no other member has a general, opening question, we will move on to look at legislation. I will bring in Fulton MacGregor on that, to be followed by Rona Mackay.

That is fine. In that case, would you like to pick up the questioning on legislation, Ms Mackay?

I will ask a follow-up question about the practical aspect of release days. Do you have any comment on how appropriate it is for Friday to be a release day, given that, for example, some services might be closed over the weekend? Thinking about it in the context of victim support, should that arrangement continue?

Good morning and welcome to the fifth meeting of the Criminal Justice Committee. There are no apologies this morning.

Under item 1, do members agree to take in private item 5, which is consideration of today’s evidence?

Members indicated agreement.

I will bring in Tim Barraclough, as I think that he was quite keen to speak.

I would like to bring in Superintendent Convery, who I know is very interested in that.

Time is slightly against us, but I will bring in Katy Clark with a final question on criminal injuries compensation.

Item 4 is consideration of two Scottish statutory instruments under the negative procedure. I refer members to paper 6.

If members have no comments on the regulations, are we content not to make any comments formally to Parliament on it?

Members indicated agreement.

We now move into private session.