Seòmar agus comataidhean

In previous evidence sessions and in previous meetings with you, cabinet secretary, we have heard about the success and vibrancy of the film and television industry in Scotland, in relation not only to the scenery but the increased studio capacity, the skilled people who work in the industry and the ancillary businesses around it. How will the budget continue to support and increase production in that valuable industry?

Thank you. That is helpful.

Robin Gourlay, I know that you have been involved in the issue of public participation, so I would like to get your thoughts on how public participation benefits from the plans.

I thank the witnesses for their interesting set of answers to our questions. I was struck by Robin Gourlay’s suggestion that the bill should perhaps be called the food in society bill. I am interested in the witnesses’ thoughts on why public participation is important in preparing food plans. That participation might be from people with specific characteristics or from groups whose voices are very seldom heard.

We will start with Professor Brennan, if that is okay.

Thank you. Would Robin Gourlay like to add anything?

I am interested in the fact that you highlighted sugar. In your written submission, you talked about consulting the private sector, too. Having read some of Henry Dimbleby’s work, I know that he proposed a couple of recommendations, including imposing tax on salt and sugar for commercial purchasers of those products.

My question follows on from Rachael Hamilton’s question. What are your thoughts on how the United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020 might impact on Scotland with regard to a choice that Scotland might want to make in that regard?

Will Geoff Ogle give his thoughts on the importance of public participation?

Thank you, convener—

I would like to broaden the discussion. Scotland’s food issues are not unique; other countries are looking at policies around food. I am interested in whether the witnesses have any examples that we could look at with regard to accountability or oversight in respect of food legislation. Perhaps Mary Brennan can start.

I smiled at your comment about people-to-people conversations because people are people the world over and we have to recognise that. I am looking forward to visiting Oban high school in the near future, which is in my constituency. Lewis Ryder-Jones, do you have any thoughts and comments on a distinctively Scottish approach and our not being able to follow, given the size of the funding available, the more defined route that we expect from DFID or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office?

I was at a couple of COP26 fringe events and I heard someone comment that the cost of doing nothing is more than the cost of doing something. Lewis Ryder-Jones, could you expand on your statement about support for calls for the cancellation of all external debt payments?