Chamber and committees

He has many years of experience in social work and in care settings, so I am sure that he would be delighted to do that. Thank you.

I have one question for the minister and one for the cabinet secretary.

At various points throughout the meeting, we have touched on the shocking number of women in prison who are victims of domestic abuse. Many are brain damaged and have mental health and addiction problems. Does the minister agree that prison is not the place for such women? Is the Government looking to expand any form of holistic care to deal with the issue?

I welcome the planned spend of £100 million over three years on the prevention of violence against women and girls. I should perhaps declare an interest as I am the convener of the cross-party group on men’s violence against women and girls.

Will you explain the focus on the issue and comment on the recent media coverage about some women’s aid centres missing out on the funding? What are the dynamics of that?

Good morning, and welcome to the first meeting of the Criminal Justice Committee in session 6 of the Scottish Parliament. As the oldest member of the committee, I have the pleasure of convening the meeting for the first two items of business. I take the opportunity to welcome all committee members. I look forward to working with you on the committee.

I remind everyone present to switch their mobile phones to silent. No apologies have been received for the meeting.

The first item on the agenda is for each committee member to declare any interests that they have that are relevant to the work of the committee. Background information on the declaration of interests is provided in paper 1.

I have no relevant interests to declare. I invite members, in alphabetical order, to declare any interests.

That was unanimous. Congratulations, Audrey, on your appointment. I hand the chair over to you.

Under agenda item 2, the committee’s first task is to choose a convener—the procedure is explained in paper 2. The Parliament has agreed that only members of the Scottish National Party are eligible for nomination as convener of the committee, and I understand that Audrey Nicoll is the party’s nominee.

Audrey Nicoll was chosen as convener.