Seòmar agus comataidhean

Thank you.

Thank you. That was very helpful. We will move to Germany next. I am keen to hear the thoughts of Dr Stein.

Thank you. Now, to London. I feel like I am in the Eurovision song contest. Mr Webster, I am keen to hear your thoughts.

To continue the theme of questioning, through the continuity act the Scottish Government’s stated position is clearly that the default is to align with new EU laws as they are introduced. Given that that could cause divergence, how concerned are you about the impact of the continuity act on the level playing field across the UK?

Thank you, Mr McAllister. Given your experience of devolved Assemblies, I wonder about two fronts. What role could the Scottish Parliament have in scrutinising the Scottish Government’s engagement with Europe and what role could parliamentarians and local councillors potentially have in direct engagement with the EU and other representatives from across Europe? For example, even though Scotland and the UK are no longer part of the European Union, we are still invited to observe the Committee of the Regions. What are your thoughts on how further integration could be aided in that respect?

Thank you, Mr McAllister.

I want to follow up on Jenni Minto’s points and ask about engagement and the Scottish Government approach. Mr Salamone, your written submission states:

“Strategy should minimise Scottish constitutional affairs and promote purposeful separation of European and international relations from the independence debate.”

In your opinion, what strategy is the Scottish Government pursuing?

What should be the Scottish Parliament’s role in scrutinising the Scottish Government’s engagement priorities?

Thank you for that welcome, Mr McAllister. I will speak to the convener in due course about a possible committee visit to Brussels when restrictions allow. I am sure that we would all love to meet you in person.

We heard the earlier panel of witnesses’ thoughts about the Scottish Government’s EU engagement and two main areas of focus—one being practical co-operation on areas of mutual interest and the other being participation in debates on the future of Europe. What are your thoughts on the Scottish Government’s approach in those areas? Would you like to add anything?

Dr Zuleeg, reflecting on Mr Salamone’s comments, will you comment on the Scottish Government’s general engagement approach and the role of the Scottish Parliament in that?