Chamber and committees

That would be interesting. Obviously, we are very anxious that people in Scotland’s rural areas are not left behind. The inconsistency and logistical difficulties in providing the support that is needed seem to be problems not just in this matter, but in many services.

In responding, could you touch on how the elections are held and whether they have a large participation? Are there competitions for the positions? I am just curious.

Okay. That is interesting.

I turn to the questions that I have here on sponsorship. As you know, sponsorship has been a big issue with the Scottish Government and its fairly recent report on sponsorship indicated a large number of weaknesses. How strong is the sponsorship support that the Crofting Commission is getting? Do you consider it to be adequate or strong?

Will you revisit that yourself?

Before I ask the questions that I am thinking of, what is the process of election for the elected members of the commission?

Are the elected commissioners all crofters?

Coming back to the Crofting Commission and its engagement with sponsorship, are you satisfied that the changes that have been made within the Crofting Commission adequately reflect the proper relationship that it should have with the sponsorship unit?

I fully take on board the caveats about the sustainability of the progress that has been made. The progress is excellent and very welcome, but sustainability is an issue, as it is with any sweeping changes such as those that the commission has brought in over a short period.

Are you aware of whether the Scottish Government’s public bodies unit has been involved in any of that work?

I will make one last point on the sponsorship side. Can you remind me who the sponsoring body is?

Okay—thank you.