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Thank you.

The bill envisages an advisory council. Does the panel consider that that will provide an appropriate avenue for learners, practitioners and so on, to strengthen the work of the inspectorate. Perhaps Professor Donaldson can answer first?

Good morning, Professor Muir. Thanks for your answers so far and for your opening statement. You have touched on this already, but will the proposals in the bill ensure an appropriate level of independence for the inspectorate?

There is no trap.

Professor Muir, should the inspectorate remain responsible for inspection of all funded early learning and childcare providers?

A frequent issue raised by disability organisations in response to the call for views was that, although there are several statutory organisations that promote and protect the rights of disabled people, inequalities persist. What are your views on that?

Thank you.

Good morning, Mr Balfour. Thank you for your opening remarks.

There are concerns about the duplication of work, which you mentioned in your opening statement, especially given the financial climate. The FPAC said:

“We welcome the views of supported bodies that more work can be undertaken in this area, including sharing premises and back-office functions.”

What is your response to the concerns about duplication and how can they be mitigated?

Thanks, convener. Minister, it is good news that the industrial dispute in Scotland’s colleges has ended, but there is clearly work to do. What work is on-going, and what is the Scottish Government’s role in that?

I also note that there is a potential reduction in full-time-equivalent staff. Has the Scottish Government considered the impact of that?