Chamber and committees

Were you aware that, prior to the November statement, Circularity Scotland issued tenders that had a start date for Scotland’s deposit and return scheme that was later than 2022?

At the time of the November statement, were you aware that there would be a delay to the scheme—yes or no?

Thanks. I am aware of that.

This is my final question. How many staff worked for the scheme administrator in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020?

It is important, as you have recognised, to deal with the challenges of Covid, but in a previous submission to the committee, the V&A Dundee said that a multiyear funding settlement would be the single most important commitment that the Scottish Government could make. I think that you have recognised that, but can you give the committee an update on the timetable for implementation?

In October, you said that the Government was working on a cultural recovery plan. Can you give us an update on the timeline and when it might be published?

My question is for the whole panel, but perhaps Lewis Ryder-Jones could answer first. In previous evidence, we heard from Oxfam that

“Scotland’s credibility on climate justice is now in significant jeopardy due to it missing three successive annual emissions targets.”

What are the witnesses’ views on that topic?

I will start with Sheila Scobie and then move to the rest of the panel to see whether there are other views. The stated position of the Scottish Government with regard to the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Bill is to align with new EU laws as they are introduced. If exercised, that could lead to divergence in regulations and create distortions in the UK internal market. Are you concerned about the potential impact of the continuity bill?

Jonathan Scott, do you have any comments?

Thank you, convener. I will keep to one question in order to meet the time requirements.

I will start with Martin Johnson, but I put the question to the entire panel. How is success measured in your office? What metrics do you use and do you feel that they are appropriate?

The glyphosate example is very useful, because it is perhaps the highest up on the risk register in terms of implications of the continuity act.

As a follow-up on common frameworks, I am keen to hear your thoughts on what the consequences would be if the Scottish Government did not sign up to the common framework.