Minutes: 20 November 2024

1. Decision on taking business in private:

The Committee agreed to take items 4 and 5 in private.

2. Subordinate legislation:

The Committee took evidence on the Rural Support (Improvement) (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2024 (SSI 2024/draft) from—

Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, supported by John Armour, Branch Head, Livestock Production Policy, Lewis Kerr, Lawyer and Brian Service, Agricultural Reform Programme Lead for Cross Compliance, Scottish Government.

Tim Eagle declared an interest as a farmer.

3. Subordinate legislation:

Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity moved—

S6M-15262—That the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee recommends that the Rural Support (Improvement) (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2024 be approved.

After debate, motion S6M-15262 was agreed to by division: For 7, Against 1, Abstentions 1.

4. Amendment to the Joint Fisheries Statement (in private):

The Committee considered a draft letter to the Scottish Government. Various changes were agreed to. 

5. Petition PE1758 End greyhound racing In Scotland (in private):

The Committee continued its consideration of a draft report.  Various changes were agreed to, and the report was agreed for publication.