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Will you consult on that for Scottish elections?

I am more sanguine on expats. They have contributed to their country and should not lose their vote because they have lived abroad for 15 years. That is my opinion and I understand that it is contrary to yours.

I can, and I can see that the minister’s microphone is lit up, so there is a chance that I will be able to hear him now.

You have no idea what you would put in the bill as a sanction for people who practise intimidation at elections.

A yes or no answer would suffice.

Okay. Based on the fact that you and I agree that intimidation should not happen, do you think that five years would be an unreasonable ban?

Minister, with the greatest respect—

I understand that there are strong feelings on both sides. I am looking to find areas in which there could still be compromise. I am trying to investigate that. I understand that, although we all agree that intimidation of witnesses should not happen, there does not appear to be a compromise, so I am happy to leave my questions there.

So, if it was put out to consultation as part of the democratic process and voter ID was agreed to, you as a Government would vote against it and would not push it through the Parliament. That is what you have just said to me. I understand your position, minister—thank you.

I have some quick questions for the minister. Does the Scottish Government believe that UK citizens who live abroad should be able to vote for more than 15 years?