Seòmar agus comataidhean

Across Scotland, only 18 per cent of people feel that they can influence decisions affecting their local area. Why do you think that is, and what are the barriers? I know that you have touched on that, but do you wish to add anything in that regard?

I invite Rona Mackay to respond.

Thank you. I put the same question to Alison Macleod.

I refer members to my entry in the register of members’ interests. I am a serving councillor on East Lothian Council. I am glad that you read out the title of the regulations, convener, as that has saved me from having to do it.

I want to talk about the changing of the deadline for requesting a replacement for a lost or spoilt postal vote ballot paper from 5 pm to 10 pm on polling days. Why was the deadline previously 5 pm, and what impact will the change have on electoral administrators?

Was there any indication from previous elections that anyone was disenfranchised because the deadline was 5 pm rather than 10 pm?

Thank you.

Thank you, convener. I welcome the witnesses and refer everyone to my entry in the register of members’ interests. I am a councillor in East Lothian Council.

Do the witnesses agree with the Scottish Government that the coronavirus pandemic has affected the valuation of such a wide range of properties and business activities that it is more appropriate to take account of those effects at the next revaluation date?

A few of you mentioned appeals. Are material change of circumstances appeals an appropriate route for specific factors that affect individual properties or a limited number of properties? Leon Thompson touched on that issue. What are your thoughts on that specific subject?

Thank you, minister.

Minister, in your opening statement, you explained the reasons for revising the code. Does the revised code place new responsibilities or sanctions on board members or has the exercise been aimed at increasing clarity?