| Population | 529,890 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245124,"EventID":"S3W-38606","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost of redundancies was in replacing the GPASS system.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost of redundancies was in replacing the GPASS system.","AnswerText":"There have been no redundancies linked to the GPASS replacement. GPASS remains operational until March 2012. National Services Scotland (NSS) are working closely with the Trade Unions and the Scottish Government to identify opportunities for suitable alternative employment within NSS and NHSScotland. There is an ongoing commitment to no compulsory redundancies in NHSScotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245125,"EventID":"S3W-38607","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, what the timeline is for concluding the transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, what the timeline is for concluding the transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38041 on 16 December 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245126,"EventID":"S3W-38608","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, whether a draft transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup will be issued for consultation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, whether a draft transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup will be issued for consultation.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38041 on 16 December 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245127,"EventID":"S3W-38609","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, who is involved in preparing the transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38040 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, who is involved in preparing the transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup.","AnswerText":"Transport Scotland is working with Event Scotland and Perth and Kinross Council to develop a transport plan for the event. The exercise will be carried out in conjunction with the Event owner, Ryder Cup Europe. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245128,"EventID":"S3W-38610","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been screened for bowel cancer in each year since 1999, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been screened for bowel cancer in each year since 1999, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"The Scottish arm of the UK Colorectal Cancer Screening pilot commenced in NHS Fife, Grampian and Tayside in April 2000 and ran until May 2007. All men and women in these three areas aged between 50 and 69 were invited to participate. The total number of people who returned a screening kit and received a test result is in the following table: | NHS Board | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | | Fife | 18,231 | 19,176 | 9,405 | 21,505 | 19,919 | 14,826 | 24,894 | 6,646 | | Grampian | 25,578 | 15,833 | 28,450 | 36,849 | 31,845 | 23,943 | 34,921 | 15,458 | | Tayside | 21,398 | 26,787 | 8,688 | 20,931 | 28,464 | 20,948 | 26,889 | 9,405 | | Total | 65,207 | 61,796 | 46,543 | 79,285 | 80,228 | 59,717 | 86,704 | 31,509 | The bowel screening programme commenced a phased roll out across Scotland from June 2007 with all NHS boards participating in the programme from
December 2009. All men and women between the ages of 50 and 74 are being invited to participate in the programme. The total number of people who returned a screening kit and received a test result is in the following table: | NHS Board | http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=HCHS%20by%20specialty_2010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. Information about clinical nurse specialists staff in post by specialty, including cancer specialties, and NHS board, as at 30 September 2007 to 30 September 2010 is available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Clinical%20Nurse%20Specialists%202010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. Information about clinical nurse specialists staff in post by specialty, including cancer specialties and NHS board, as at 30 September 2004 to 30 September 2006 is available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=WFE18_0107.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. Information for consultants in clinical radiology and medical oncology by NHS board as at 30 September 1999 and 30 September 2000 is shown in table 1 which has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52315.) ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245130,"EventID":"S3W-38612","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Ambulance Service has amended its Child Protection Code of Practice, as recommended by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman, to take into account t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Ambulance Service has amended its Child Protection Code of Practice, as recommended by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman, to take into account the circumstance whereby children are left in its care when the responsible adult has been taken ill.","AnswerText":"As recommended by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman, the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) is currently amending its Child Protection Code of Practice. The service has advised me that it anticipates this work being completed before the end of February 2011, thereafter the revised code will be conveyed to staff with the support of the SAS Learning and Development Team and Medical Directorate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245131,"EventID":"S3W-38613","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, following the publication of Towards an Autism Strategy for Scotland, what audit it has undertaken of the number of clinicians fully trained and able to assess, treat an","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, following the publication of Towards an Autism Strategy for Scotland, what audit it has undertaken of the number of clinicians fully trained and able to assess, treat and manage autism spectrum disorders.","AnswerText":"No audit has been undertaken to ascertain the number of clinicians trained to assess, treat and manage autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, funding has been made available to research the number who are waiting for diagnosis and assessment and the issues that may contribute to waiting lists, including appropriately trained staff. Within the strategy are recommendations designed to improve the training of staff to allow improved assessment and diagnoses. This work will be taken forward by the ASD reference group and the Scottish Government will continue to update the Parliament on the progress of the strategy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245132,"EventID":"S3W-38614","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to disseminate the examples of good practice in the Consumer Focus Scotland report, Consumer Engagement in Decision Making: Best Practice from Sco","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to disseminate the examples of good practice in the Consumer Focus Scotland report, Consumer Engagement in Decision Making: Best Practice from Scottish Public Services.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government welcomes the recent Consumer Focus Scotland report and believes that the examples of good practice it contains should inform the work of the commission on the Future Delivery of Public Services. A copy of the report has been sent to the commission. The commission will provide recommendations about the provision of our public services, advising on how excellent, sustainable services can be delivered in the future. Its recommendations will be vital in guiding the longer term choices that will face us in the years ahead. The commission''s remit and membership were announced on 19 November and it has been invited to report with recommendations by the end of June 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245133,"EventID":"S3W-38615","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which voluntary organisations received funding from the Third Sector Resilience Fund in 2010 and how much each received.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which voluntary organisations received funding from the Third Sector Resilience Fund in 2010 and how much each received.","AnswerText":"Details of the voluntary organisations which received funding from the Third Sector Resilience Fund in 2010, and the amount each received, may be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/People/15300/funding/ResilienceFundStrategy1/FundGrantRecipients. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245134,"EventID":"S3W-38616","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many organisations applied for funding from the Third Sector Resilience Fund in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many organisations applied for funding from the Third Sector Resilience Fund in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Third Sector Resilience Fund closed for applications on 4 December 2009; 189 organisations applied for funding, of which 64 were successful. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245135,"EventID":"S3W-38617","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-05T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38215 by Nicola Sturgeon on 16 December 2010, by what means people can find these helpline numbers other than through the internet.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38215 by Nicola Sturgeon on 16 December 2010, by what means people can find these helpline numbers other than through the internet.","AnswerText":"That answer referred to the Care Information Scotland helpline, the Scottish Helpline for Older People and the Scottish Government''s Home Energy Scotland Hotline. These helplines are well aware their users often do not have access to the internet, and target their advertising accordingly. They advertise its helpline numbers through leaflets and posters distributed and displayed in public places such as libraries, GPs surgeries, and other community settings; through its own publications and mailings; and through awareness raising by attending local events and in talks to the likes of older people''s groups. In addition, the Scottish Helpline for Older People is in every Yellow Pages directory in Scotland (directories have different categories, so advertisements appear under Advice and Information or Counselling or Helplines). The Home Energy Scotland Hotline has current broad coverage over radio and TV, and over 100,000 Scottish households are being sent letters promoting its phone number in 2010-11. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245136,"EventID":"S3W-38618","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prisoners have absconded from HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly in each of the last 10 years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prisoners have absconded from HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly in each of the last 10 years.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: (a) The number of absconds and failures to return at Noranside are as follows: | | From Establishment | From Work Party | From Placement | From Licence | Total | | 2009-10 | | | | 2 | 2 | | 2008-09 | 2 | | | 5 | 7 | | 2007-08 | 4 | | | 5 | 9 | | 2006-07 | 2 | | | 11 | 13 | | 2005-06 | 18 | | 1 | 7 | 26 | | 2004-05 | 11 | | | 16 | 27 | | 2003-04 | 6 | | | 8 | 14 | | 2002-03 | 2 | | | 3 | 5 | | 2001-02 | 10 | | | 8 | 18 | | 2000-01 | 6 | 2 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245137,"EventID":"S3W-38619","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the capacity is of HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly and what the occupancy has been in each month in the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the capacity is of HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly and what the occupancy has been in each month in the last five years.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service to respond. His response is as follows: The design capacity of HMP Castle Huntly is as follows: 1 January 2004 to 15 August 2005: 156 15 August 2005 to 10 May 2006: 297 10 May 2006 to 1 May 2007: 285 The design capacity of HMP Noranside is as follows: 1 January 2004 to 26 May 2006: 135 26 May 2006 to 1 May 2007: 140 The design capacity of HMP Open Estate is as follows: 1 May 2007 to 19 December 2008: 425 19 December 2008 to 22 July 2009: 419 22 July 2009 to present: 425 The following tables show the average monthly population for HMP Castle Huntly, HMP Noranside and HMP Open Estate. HMP Castle Huntly | | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | | January | 0 | 153 | 264 | 275 | | February | 0 | 153 | 261 | 282 | | March | 0 | 156 | 256 | 282 | | April | 0 | 157 | 258 | 207 | | May | 0 | 157 | 268 | 0 | | June | 0 | 159 | 277 | 0 | | July | 157 | 155 | 274 | 0 | | August | 158 | 157 | 259 | 0 | | September | 154 | 181 | 247 | Both sites are owned by the Scottish Prison Service. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245139,"EventID":"S3W-38621","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what income has been received from prisoner work at HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly in each of the last 10 years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what income has been received from prisoner work at HMP (a) Noranside and (b) Castle Huntly in each of the last 10 years.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The income received from prisoner work related activities within each establishment over the last ten years is as follows. The figures supplied relate to the financial year starting 1 April of the year highlighted (a): 2000 - £87,503 2001 - £111,864 2002 - £117,192 2003 - £60,040 2004 - £23,246 (b): 2000 - £6,125 2001 - £870 2002 - £20 2003 - £0 2004 - £40 As the Open Estate from 2005, the income was as follows: (c): 2005 - £27,132 2006 - £20,722 2007 - £15,802 2009 - £10,777 2009 - £1,715 ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245140,"EventID":"S3W-38622","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional prison place funding has been paid to each prison in each of the last five years and for what purpose.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional prison place funding has been paid to each prison in each of the last five years and for what purpose.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: The additional prisoner place funding paid to each public sector establishment over the last five years is as follows: | 2010-11 Until December 10 | | Aberdeen | £8,500 | | Barlinnie | £696,110 | | Cornton Vale | £290 | | Dumfries | £5,900 | | Edinburgh | £67,560 | | Greenock | £46,630 | | Inverness | £24,690 | | Perth | £19,405 | | Total Net Funding for 2010-11 | £253,875 | | 2009-10 | | Aberdeen | £30,630 | | Barlinnie | £1,535,610 | | Cornton Vale | £5,480 | | Edinburgh | £45,080 | | Greenock | £45,500 | | Inverness | £51,630 | | Polmont | £95,450 | | Shotts | £3,690 | | Total Net Funding for 2009-10 | £994,710 | | 2008-09 | | Aberdeen | £35,580 | | Barlinnie | £1,751,930 | | The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) has paid two types of bonus to its staff over the last five years: 1. Performance Bonus: paid to staff who achieve the highest performance rating under the SPS Personal Performance Management System (PPMS). 2. Special Bonus Payments: Paid to staff in recognition of a particular piece of outstanding endeavour. The annual budget for which was £100,000 It should be noted that both schemes have been suspended and no bonuses will be paid under either scheme in 2011. A breakdown by grade of the number of recipients and the total spent is as follows. Performance Bonus Payments October 2006 to September 2007 | Pay Band | Number of Recipients (CEE) | CEE Bonus Payments (£) | | A | 0 | 0 | | B | 13 | 7,877 | | C | 75 | 68,222 | | D | 190 | 222,749 | | E | 114 | 154,225 | | F | 32 | 57,012 | | G | 20 | 38,674 | | H | 8 | 18,251 | | I | 11 | 27,735 | | Practitioner Nurse | 11 | 12,990 | | Clinical Manager | 4 | 5,456 | | Health Centre Manager | 4 | 7,095 | | Totals | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245143,"EventID":"S3W-38625","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to support local authorities in tackling the condition of urban roads following the recent severe weather.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to support local authorities in tackling the condition of urban roads following the recent severe weather.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has provided local government with an extra £15 million this financial year to deal with urgent repairs on local roads and cover the extra costs of winter maintenance as a result of the recent severe weather. The distribution of the funding has been discussed and agreed by the Scottish Government and COSLA. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245144,"EventID":"S3W-38626","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that methods of road surfacing are sufficiently robust to ensure that urban streets are safe and usable by motor vehicles and pedestrians and whether","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that methods of road surfacing are sufficiently robust to ensure that urban streets are safe and usable by motor vehicles and pedestrians and whether it is conducting research into the issue.","AnswerText":"The Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 places a statutory responsibility for the repair, maintenance and improvement of local roads on local authorities. Local authorities have been allocated an increased share of public spending but it is for them to choose how to spend it based on their own priorities. Neither the Scottish Ministers nor the Scottish Government can instruct the local authorities in such matters. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245145,"EventID":"S3W-38627","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its estimate is of the (a) extra cost of gritting and (b) cost of repair to roads, streets and pavements to ensure a safe standard due to the recent severe weather c","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its estimate is of the (a) extra cost of gritting and (b) cost of repair to roads, streets and pavements to ensure a safe standard due to the recent severe weather conditions.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government will make an extra £15 million available to local authorities to deal with urgent repairs on local roads and cover the extra costs of winter roads maintenance. Transport Scotland, which is responsible for trunk roads and motorways in Scotland, will also be provided with an additional £12 million to cover the cost of repairs on the trunk road network and to procure the strategic salt stock. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245146,"EventID":"S3W-38628","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budgets have been for (a) prison visiting committees and (b) the Association of Visiting Committees in each of the last three years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budgets have been for (a) prison visiting committees and (b) the Association of Visiting Committees in each of the last three years.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: The following table details the direct budgets allocated to and spent by prison Visiting Committees (VCs), the Association of Visiting Committees and Legalised Police Cells Visiting Committees over the last three fiscal years: | | 2007-08 Budget | 2008-09 Budget | 2009-10 Budget | | Allocated | Spent | Allocated | Spent | Allocated | Spent | | Prison VC Budgets | £37,050.00 | £40,933.44 | £44,200.00 | £41,076.90 | £41,527.49 | £44,380.07 | | Legalised Police Cells VC | £3,158.75 | £4,642.57 | £3,158.75 | £3,865.61 | £3,158.75 | £4,021.94 | | AVC Budget | £27,241.25 | £26,671.83 | £27,241.25 | £25,945.34 | £27,241.25 | £27,103.50 | | Total Budget | £67,450.00 | £72,247.84 | £74,600.00 | £70,887.85 | £71,927.49 | £75,505.51 | In addition to these direct running costs, which are administered by the SPS on behalf of Scottish ministers, there are additional costs for covering expenses incurred by elected councillors who fulfil the VC member role. The SPS does not record these additional expenses. There are also in-year costs for one-off expenditure such as recruitment advertising for new VC members which is borne by SPS. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245147,"EventID":"S3W-38629","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-06T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the importance of the role played by prison visiting committees in opening up prisons to wider scrutiny.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the importance of the role played by prison visiting committees in opening up prisons to wider scrutiny.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government launched a formal consultation on 14 January, to gather evidence on the most effective, and efficient way of providing independent monitoring of prisons across Scotland. We will take a view on the future of independent monitoring once the consultation concludes on 25 February. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245148,"EventID":"S3W-38630","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1814,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what companies or other organisations it (a) wholly owns, (b) partially owns only with other public authorities listed in Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information (Scotla","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what companies or other organisations it (a) wholly owns, (b) partially owns only with other public authorities listed in Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and (c) partially owns with organisations or individuals not listed in Schedule 1 to the Act.","AnswerText":"(a) Companies in which the Scottish Ministers are the sole shareholder and companies limited by guarantee established solely by the Scottish Ministers are as follows: Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd; David MacBrayne Ltd; Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd; Scottish Futures Trust Ltd; Architecture and Design Scotland Ltd; Learning and Teaching Scotland Ltd; Skills Development Scotland Company Ltd. (b) The Scottish Ministers are not joint shareholders in any company, and have not established any company limited by guarantee, together with other Scottish public authorities listed in Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (FOI(S)A). (c) Companies in which the Scottish Ministers are joint shareholders, or companies limited by guarantee that have been established jointly by the Scottish Ministers, together with organisations not listed in Schedule 1 to the FOI(S)A are as follows: Partnerships UK Ltd; Student Loans Company Ltd; Energy Saving Trust Ltd; Carbon Trust. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245149,"EventID":"S3W-38631","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reasons are for its planned exclusion of business travel from the Air Discount Scheme given that business travellers have access to subsidised ferry fares and pu","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reasons are for its planned exclusion of business travel from the Air Discount Scheme given that business travellers have access to subsidised ferry fares and public service obligation-subsidised air fares.","AnswerText":"The Air Discount Scheme (ADS) was introduced to facilitate an improved level of social inclusion for individuals resident in the scheme''s eligible areas. The mechanism “ Aid of a Social Character “ under which the scheme is notified to and approved by the European Commission is not designed to support economic activity. It is for the benefit of individuals and not organisations, whether in the public or private sector. The Scottish Government''s support for air public service obligations (PSOs) is provided under separate EU legislation which recognises the importance of the relevant services for economic development and that, without assistance, it is unlikely that they would be commercially viable. Support through PSOs is applied to all passengers, regardless of reason for travel or place of residence. Our support for ferry services is applied through public service contracts and also applies irrespective of reason for travel and passenger residence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245150,"EventID":"S3W-38632","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) status and (b) role of the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010 will be in (i) decisions on planning applications, (ii) the preparation of deve","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) status and (b) role of the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010 will be in (i) decisions on planning applications, (ii) the preparation of development plans, (iii) decisions on applications under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 and (iv) marine planning.","AnswerText":"Statements of Government policy can be expected to inform the development of policies in development plans and marine plans. The decision maker may have regard to a Draft Statement of Government policy when considering a planning or Electricity Act application, although the weight given to it would be a matter for the decision maker to determine when reaching a decision on that application. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245151,"EventID":"S3W-38633","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will adopt the policies laid out in the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will adopt the policies laid out in the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010.","AnswerText":"Following strategic environmental assessment process outlined in the answer to question S3W-38634 on 27 January 2011, the Scottish Government will review the evidence gathered before formally adopting the policies in the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement later in 2011. The policies will be formally adopted in time to meet the statutory reporting requirement set out in s.38 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245152,"EventID":"S3W-38634","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will carry out an environmental assessment of the policies laid out in the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010 and what the reasons are for its ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will carry out an environmental assessment of the policies laid out in the Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2010 and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government published a draft version of the Electricity Generation Policy Statement to coincide with the publication of the Report on Proposals and Policies (RPP). The RPP has common proposals and was subject to a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) within the terms of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005. This draft publication of the Policy Statement was to provide the committee with sufficient information in order to scrutinise the RPP and the analytical assumptions on which it was based. It is therefore our intention following this process to establish what elements within Electricity Generation Policy Statement require further assessment within the terms of the 2005 act and to undertake in the coming months a meaningful assessment and consultation on those elements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245153,"EventID":"S3W-38635","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the need for national developments established by their identification in the National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 can be outweighed by ot","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the need for national developments established by their identification in the National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 can be outweighed by other considerations and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"The Annex on National Developments in the second National Planning Framework is clear that developments designated as national developments will still require to secure planning permission and other consents. Section 25 of The Town Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (as amended) provides for decisions under the Planning Acts relating to national developments to be made in accordance with national development statements of need as set out in the National Planning Framework, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245154,"EventID":"S3W-38636","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37929 by John Swinney on 16 December 2010, what the status of the 2011 National Planning Framework Monitoring Report will be in pro","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37929 by John Swinney on 16 December 2010, what the status of the 2011 National Planning Framework Monitoring Report will be in project decision-making and development plan preparation.","AnswerText":"The purpose of the 2011 National Planning Framework Monitoring Report is to keep the National Planning Framework under review, so the weight attached to it in decision-making and development plans will be for the decision maker. The second National Planning Framework remains the Scottish Government''s spatial plan for Scotland and policy until it is replaced. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245155,"EventID":"S3W-38637","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to encourage businesses to use electric vehicles.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to encourage businesses to use electric vehicles.","AnswerText":"Central Scotland is one of only eight UK regions to be successful in joining the Plugged-in Places programme, which will provide match funding for the installation of electric vehicle charging points. This Scottish scheme, led by Transport Scotland, is currently under way, and will result in the installation of 375 charging points across areas such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fife, Falkirk, Lanarkshire and Dunbartonshire. The installation of these points will incentivise businesses to purchase electric vehicles, by ensuring that they have the confidence to drive and know that they are in close proximity to an accessible charging point. The £3.9 million Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Support Scheme, also led by Transport Scotland, is making grant funding available to all 32 Community Planning Partnerships in Scotland for the purchase of low carbon vehicles. This scheme is expected to see the roll out of over 100 electric vehicles in to the public sector fleet, with this increased volume of sales capable of contributing to lower capital costs for businesses and private owners through increased economies of scale. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245156,"EventID":"S3W-38638","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support and advice it has for businesses considering the use of electric vehicles.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support and advice it has for businesses considering the use of electric vehicles.","AnswerText":"Transport Scotland currently work with the Energy Saving Trust to provide businesses and members of the public with advice on transport and travel choices. This is provided by staff at Energy Saving Advice Centres as well as through the website www.chooseanotherway.com. Transport advisors will provide information on buying efficient and low carbon vehicles, including electric vehicles, as well as offering businesses the opportunity to undertake reviews of their existing fleets and undertake travel plans. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245157,"EventID":"S3W-38639","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to go to their MSPs and councillors with concerns regarding (a) their","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to go to their MSPs and councillors with concerns regarding (a) their treatment as employees and (b) services.","AnswerText":"The Voicing Concerns Partnership Information Network (PIN) Guideline, which contains a model whistleblowing policy, includes provision for workers to make disclosures more widely (for example to the police, the media, MSPs, consumers and non-prescribed regulators), having exhausted internal procedures. This PIN guideline is currently under review. As part of this process, the review group will consider and include the provisions of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 which gives workers automatic protection for raising a matter internally and the right to make disclosures to prescribed regulators, as well as to make disclosures more widely, in certain circumstances as prescribed within the act. The revised PIN will be published in April 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245158,"EventID":"S3W-38640","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to discuss with patient organisations any concerns regarding services","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to discuss with patient organisations any concerns regarding services.","AnswerText":"The Voicing Concerns Partnership Information Network (PIN) Guideline, which contains a model whistleblowing policy, includes provision for workers to make disclosures more widely (for example to the police, the media, MSPs, consumers and non-prescribed regulators), having exhausted internal procedures. This PIN guideline is currently under review. As part of this process, the review group will consider and include the provisions of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, which gives workers automatic protection for raising a matter internally and the right to make disclosures to prescribed regulators, as well as to make disclosures more widely, in certain circumstances as prescribed within the act. The revised PIN will be published in April 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245159,"EventID":"S3W-38641","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to go to their representatives on the staff partnership forum with co","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can confirm that NHS staff are within their rights, having exhausted internal procedures, to go to their representatives on the staff partnership forum with concerns regarding (a) their treatment as employees and (b) services.","AnswerText":"NHS staff are within their rights at any stage to raise concerns regarding either their treatment as employees, or regarding services, with partnership representatives. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245160,"EventID":"S3W-38642","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether Etisal, the Scottish Government-sponsored event organised by the Scottish Islamic Foundation, took place in March 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether Etisal, the Scottish Government-sponsored event organised by the Scottish Islamic Foundation, took place in March 2010.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government provided funding to assist the development of the IslamFest which incorporated both Etisal and Salaam Scotland. While the specific Etisal event did not take place, a series of cultural events to help tackle Islamophobia were delivered in March and April 2010 as an outcome of the IslamFest initiative. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245161,"EventID":"S3W-38643","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been reported to the procurator fiscal as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been reported to the procurator fiscal as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit is funded by the UK Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. Loan sharks reported to the procurator fiscal as a result of Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit activity: 2004-05 - 2 2005-06 - 14 2006-07 - 5 2007-08 - 8 2008-09 - 4 2009-10 “ 4. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245162,"EventID":"S3W-38644","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been prosecuted as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money lending Unit in each year since 2004.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been prosecuted as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money lending Unit in each year since 2004.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit is funded by the UK Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. Loan sharks prosecuted as a result of Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit activity: 2004-05 - 0 2005-06 - 0 2006-07 - 2 2007-08 - 5 2008-09 - 1 2009-10 “ 1. The unit are currently working in conjunction with the Crown Office to examine issues that have arisen with previous unsuccessful cases with a view to preventing recurring problems. In addition to criminal prosecution the Unit can use the civil recovery procedures under the Proceeds of Crime Act to recover monies that may have been accrued by the lender. Unpaid taxes may also be recovered by HMRC. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245163,"EventID":"S3W-38645","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been (a) fined or (b) imprisoned as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many loan sharks have been (a) fined or (b) imprisoned as a result of the activities of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit is funded by the UK Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. Loan sharks that have been (a) fined or (b) imprisoned as a result of Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit activity: 2004-05 “ (a) 0; (b) 0 2005-06 “ (a) 0; (b) 0 2006-07 “ (a) 1; (b) 1 2007-08 “ (a) 4; (b) 0* 2008-09 “ (a) 0; (b) 1 2009-10 “ (a) 1; (b) 0. Note: *In 2007-08 one criminal case resulted in a Community Service Order. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245164,"EventID":"S3W-38646","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding has been received by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding has been received by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","AnswerText":"The funding of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit is a matter for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. \r\n<","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245165,"EventID":"S3W-38647","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff have been employed by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff have been employed by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit in each year since 2004.","AnswerText":"The staffing of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit is a matter for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. \r\n<","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245166,"EventID":"S3W-38648","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made in access to police intelligence by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made in access to police intelligence by the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit since 2007.","AnswerText":"There have been no changes in Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit access to police intelligence since 2007. An Information Sharing Protocol between Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland and the Society of Chief Trading Standards Officers in Scotland (which would cover the Illegal Money Lending Unit) has been established and will greatly facilitate the future exchange of information between the unit and the police. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245167,"EventID":"S3W-38649","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made to the training of procurator fiscal staff regarding illegal money lending cases since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made to the training of procurator fiscal staff regarding illegal money lending cases since 2007.","AnswerText":"Illegal money lending is an offence under section 39(1) of the Consumer Credit Act 1974. The number of cases reported to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) by Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit (SIMLU) is small. From the information provided by SIMLU, between 2007 and 2010 16 people were reported to the Procurator Fiscal, six prosecutions were undertaken and five people were fined, and one person was sentenced to imprisonment after conviction. If a prosecution cannot be undertaken or cannot be progressed then the case can be referred to the Civil Recovery Unit for consideration of whether civil recovery under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is appropriate to recover any property obtained through unlawful conduct. Since 2007 the Civil Recovery Unit has covered illegal money lending in training to COPFS staff. There are preparations underway to arrange a meeting between a senior official from COPFS and SIMLU to discuss the investigation and prosecution of these cases. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245168,"EventID":"S3W-38650","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Islamic Foundation submitted audited accounts to the Equality Unit for (a) 2009 and (b) 2010 and, if so, whether they were found to be satisfactory.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Islamic Foundation submitted audited accounts to the Equality Unit for (a) 2009 and (b) 2010 and, if so, whether they were found to be satisfactory.","AnswerText":"Organisations in receipt of funding are obliged to provide the Scottish Government with accounting information as part of their standard grant conditions. In line with the Companies Act 2006, the Scottish Islamic Foundation were not obliged to produce audited accounts, but chose to do so for the 2008-09 financial year and provided them to the Scottish Government. The audited accounts, lodged in Companies House on 12 March 2010, included a qualification from the auditors, and any such qualifications need to be considered in relation to future planning and monitoring. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245169,"EventID":"S3W-38651","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3763,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many schools contain asbestos in their buildings, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many schools contain asbestos in their buildings, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. Health and Safety Regulations, including The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, require duty holders who are responsible for the maintenance and repair of buildings in its control to manage the risks arising from asbestos. In the case of publicly funded schools that is the local authority. The Health and Safety Executive provides advice and guidance to local authorities and others on the management of asbestos. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245170,"EventID":"S3W-38652","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the Energy Assistance Package budget was in 2009-10 and how much was spent.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the Energy Assistance Package budget was in 2009-10 and how much was spent.","AnswerText":"In 2009-10, the core Energy Assistance Package (EAP) budget was £45.36 million and this included for installations by Scottish Gas and administration of EAP by EST, funding for Energy Action Scotland and the Scottish Fuel Poverty Forum. This budget was fully spent. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245171,"EventID":"S3W-38653","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the Energy Assistance Package budget for 2009-10 was spent on (a) improved insulation and (b) central heating installation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the Energy Assistance Package budget for 2009-10 was spent on (a) improved insulation and (b) central heating installation.","AnswerText":"It is not possible to disaggregate the spend on insulation and heating, with most jobs including both types of measure. In addition to those measures funded by the EAP budget under Stage 4, there are Stage 3 insulation measures which are funded by the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245172,"EventID":"S3W-38654","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with disabled people received support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with disabled people received support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"This information is not collected centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245173,"EventID":"S3W-38655","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with children received support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with children received support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-37227 on 11 November 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245174,"EventID":"S3W-38656","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with children are expected to receive support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households with children are expected to receive support under each stage of the Energy Assistance Package in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"This will depend upon demand and is not fully known at this stage as the year runs up until 31 March 2011. The latest available figures are as follows. Referrals Between 1 April 2010 and 3 January 2011 | Household Types | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | Stage 4 | | Families with Children | 2,552 | 1,104 | 3,556 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245175,"EventID":"S3W-38657","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2009-10 Energy Assistance Package budget was spent on households with children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2009-10 Energy Assistance Package budget was spent on households with children.","AnswerText":"This information is not collected centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245176,"EventID":"S3W-38658","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2010-11 Energy Assistance Package budget is expected to be spent on households with children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2010-11 Energy Assistance Package budget is expected to be spent on households with children.","AnswerText":"The proportion of the budget spent on households with children will depend on demand and, where Stage 4 measures are installed, with the nature of the measures. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245177,"EventID":"S3W-38659","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the Affordable Housing Investment Programme has been allocated to each local authority in each year since 2006-07, also expressed in real terms.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the Affordable Housing Investment Programme has been allocated to each local authority in each year since 2006-07, also expressed in real terms.","AnswerText":"The following table shows how much of the Affordable Housing Investment Programme has been allocated to each local authority in each year since 2006-07, also expressed in real terms. GDP deflators for the real term figures have been sourced from HM Treasury. Real term figures for 2009-10 are the same as the actual spend figures provided. Planned expenditure has been provided for 2010-11: | Local Authority | Actual Spend 2006-07 | Real Terms 2006-07 | Actual Spend 2007-08 | Real Terms 2007-08 | | North | | | Highland | 43.557 | 46.859 | 37.802 | 39.486 | | Orkney | 5.018 | 5.398 | 7.007 | 7.319 | | Shetland | 3.030 | 3.260 | 5.728 | 5.983 | | Western Isles | 6.704 | 7.212 | 7.698 | 8.041 | | Aberdeenshire | 17.223 | 18.529 | 9.202 | 9.612 | | City of Aberdeen | 5.014 | 5.394 | 4.232 | 4.421 | | Moray | 11.262 | 12.116 | 14.742 | 15.399 | | East | | | Angus | 8.302 | 8.931 | 8.108 | 8.469 | | City of Dundee | 12.975 | 13.959 | 17.606 <","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245178,"EventID":"S3W-38660","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1841,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive at what number of daily crossings by pedestrians on trunk roads with a 60 mph speed limit Transport Scotland considers introducing road safety interventions.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive at what number of daily crossings by pedestrians on trunk roads with a 60 mph speed limit Transport Scotland considers introducing road safety interventions.","AnswerText":"There are no set criteria for the number of daily crossings by pedestrians on trunk roads with a 60 mph speed limit related to introducing road safety interventions. Safer road design, improved speed management, continued maintenance and a better provision for vulnerable road users are amongst the steps being taken to reduce numbers of injuries and fatalities on Scotland''s roads. Transport Scotland assesses the safety performance of the trunk road network on an annual basis by screening all locations where three or more injury accidents have occurred in a three year period and this includes pedestrian injury accidents. Further investigations are carried out and where appropriate, mitigation measures are installed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245179,"EventID":"S3W-38661","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes there have been in the method of reporting of crimes and offences in the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes there have been in the method of reporting of crimes and offences in the last five years.","AnswerText":"Police forces in Scotland report cases to procurators fiscal. Changes in the reporting of crime over the past five years have been driven by Lord Advocate''s Guidelines. In terms of the actual recording of crimes, the Scottish Crime Recording Standard (SCRS) was introduced throughout all Scottish police forces on 1 April 2004. The main aim of the SCRS is to provide a more victim orientated approach that ensures greater consistency and uniformity in crime recording standards throughout Scotland. Further to this, the list of crime codes used to record crimes is consistent across all police forces in Scotland, and allows Scotland-level statistics to be created. This ultimately ensures a greater degree of comparability between forces than there was previously. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245180,"EventID":"S3W-38662","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes there have been in the method of recording of crimes and offences in the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes there have been in the method of recording of crimes and offences in the last five years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Crime Recording Standard (SCRS) was introduced throughout all Scottish police forces on 1 April 2004. The main aim of the SCRS is to provide a more victim orientated approach that ensures greater consistency and uniformity in crime recording standards throughout Scotland. Further to this, the list of crime codes used to record crimes is consistent across all police forces in Scotland, and allows Scotland-level statistics to be created. This ultimately ensures a greater degree of comparability between forces than there was previously. The Scottish Crime Registrars Group (SCRG), created to oversee change in all forces, has helped achieve a standardised approach to recording. The group consists of the eight police force crime registrars, as well as representatives from British Transport Police, the Ministry of Defence Police and the Justice Analytical Services Division of the Scottish Government. The group meets every two months to review, maintain and improve the SCRS and its use and implementation. The Scottish Government continually strives to improve the way in which crimes and offences are recorded in Scotland, and will work with all police forces across Scotland, the SCRG and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) to ensure that the rules in place ensure as much consistency and uniformity as possible. During the last five years, HM Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (HMICS) has undertaken a thematic inspection to review how the SCRS has developed within the police service in Scotland since 2005, and more recently, has conducted crime audits in each police force. The SCRG has responded to any recommendations published in these reports which relate to the recording of crimes and offences. In the last five years, the list of crime codes will have been updated to reflect new legislation which has been introduced within that time period. A recent example of this would have been changes to codes which relate to crimes of indecency, following the introduction of the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009 on 1 December 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245181,"EventID":"S3W-38663","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what contact it has had with the Government of Libya regarding Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al Megrahi in the last six months and for what purpose.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what contact it has had with the Government of Libya regarding Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al Megrahi in the last six months and for what purpose.","AnswerText":"There has been contact between Scottish Government officials and Libyan Government officials on a number of matters, including the supervision of Mr Al-Megrahi''s licence under section 3 of the Prisons and Criminal Proceedings (Scotland) Act 1993, and the anniversary of his release on compassionate grounds. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245182,"EventID":"S3W-38664","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what reports it has received in the last three months regarding the health of Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al Megrahi from (a) Libyan sources and (b) East Renfrewshire Council.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what reports it has received in the last three months regarding the health of Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al Megrahi from (a) Libyan sources and (b) East Renfrewshire Council.","AnswerText":"East Renfrewshire Council has sent copies of Mr Al-Megrahi''s monthly medical reports to Scottish Government officials, covering October, November and December 2010. These reports are prepared by Libyan medical personnel. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245183,"EventID":"S3W-38665","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received from Martin Hunt, the managing director of Tartan Silk, regarding compensation from The Gathering 2009 and what response it has given","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received from Martin Hunt, the managing director of Tartan Silk, regarding compensation from The Gathering 2009 and what response it has given Mr Hunt.","AnswerText":"The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change represented the Scottish Government at a meeting on 25 November 2010 attended by Martin Hunt at which Mr Hunt represented 11 of the creditors for The Gathering 2009 Ltd. At that meeting, and in a subsequent letter of 26 November 2010 to the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change, Mr Hunt argued that because representatives of VisitScotland and EventScotland chaired a steering group relating to The Gathering event, those representatives were acting as shadow directors of the company, and that the Scottish Government therefore had an obligation to the creditors. Following careful consideration of the points made by Mr Hunt in the meeting and in his subsequent letter, I responded to Mr Hunt on 17 January 2011. In responding I set out a number of points of context, namely that The Gathering event was not conceived or commissioned by government or any of its partners, and accordingly, the company was not set up by government or any of its partners; and that the Steering Group established and chaired by EventScotland had a role to represent and reflect the interests of the various public sector funders and to monitor overall delivery, but that it did not have any decision-making responsibility in relation to the commercial activities of the company. My response stated that on this basis, the Scottish Government did not accept Mr Hunt''s central point that officials from EventScotland and VisitScotland were acting as shadow directors in relation to The Gathering 2009 Ltd by virtue of their involvement in the Steering Group. The response to Mr Hunt also reiterated that the Government is sympathetic to the plight of the small businesses affected by the liquidation of The Gathering 2009 Ltd and pointed out that this was one of the reasons why the Scottish Government worked hard to find a solution once it first became aware of the financial difficulties the company was facing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245184,"EventID":"S3W-38666","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings it had with the retail sector in November 2010 and what issues were discussed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings it had with the retail sector in November 2010 and what issues were discussed.","AnswerText":"Ministers and officials regularly speak to, meet and correspond with a range of individual retailers and business organisations, such as the Scottish Retail Consortium, as part of ongoing engagement with sectors of the economy. In November 2010, there were several meetings where issues such as business rates and the economy were discussed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245185,"EventID":"S3W-38667","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings it had with the retail sector in December 2010 and what issues were discussed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings it had with the retail sector in December 2010 and what issues were discussed.","AnswerText":"Ministers and officials regularly speak to, meet and correspond with a range of individual retailers and business organisations, such as the Scottish Retail Consortium, as part of ongoing engagement with sectors of the economy. In November 2010, there were several meetings where issues such as business rates and the economy were discussed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245186,"EventID":"S3W-38668","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact it considers commodity price increases will have on the retail sector.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact it considers commodity price increases will have on the retail sector.","AnswerText":"An increase in commodity prices can increase both the cost of production and distribution across sectors in the economy however it is difficult to anticipate the exact nature of impact in the retail sector. For example, the implications will depend on the pricing strategies of individual retail firms and whether costs are absorbed in profit margins or passed to the consumer. In addition, there can be a time lag between increases in the cost of goods production and implications in the retail supply chain. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245187,"EventID":"S3W-38669","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what analysis it has conducted on the economic outlook for the retail sector in (a) 2011 and (b) 2012. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what analysis it has conducted on the economic outlook for the retail sector in (a) 2011 and (b) 2012. ","AnswerText":"The future prospects of the Scottish economy are summarised within the Scottish Government''s quarterly State of the Economy publication available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Economy/state-economy/latestSofE. The latest version, published at the end of November 2010, observes on page 51 that should conditions in the Scottish labour market remain weak, this will lower income per household and therefore lower household consumption. In addition to such general analysis, the Scottish Government has commissioned an in-depth study of the contribution which the retail sector makes to the Scottish economy. The results of this study will be available by early March 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245188,"EventID":"S3W-38670","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-24913 by Richard Lochhead on 17 June 2009, whether it remains committed to sustainable development as defined in the 2005 UK shared","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-24913 by Richard Lochhead on 17 June 2009, whether it remains committed to sustainable development as defined in the 2005 UK shared framework for sustainable development, One future - different paths.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government remains committed to sustainable development, as defined in the 2005 UK shared framework for sustainable development, One future “ different paths. This commitment is reflected in the Government Economic Strategy and through a range of policy documents including our Low Carbon Economic Strategy, Energy Efficiency Action Plan, Zero Waste Plan and Scotland''s Action Plan for the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development. Officials are in regular dialogue over sustainable development issues with the UK Government, Welsh Assembly Government and Northern Ireland Assembly. While this has not included discussion of the role of One future - different paths, we understand there are no current plans to review the document. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245189,"EventID":"S3W-38671","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Northern Ireland Executive regarding the current and future role of the 2005 UK ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Northern Ireland Executive regarding the current and future role of the 2005 UK shared framework for sustainable development, One future - different paths.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38670 on 21 January 2011 All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245190,"EventID":"S3W-38672","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of plans to review the 2005 UK shared framework for sustainable development, One future - different paths and, if so, what (a) process such a review w","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of plans to review the 2005 UK shared framework for sustainable development, One future - different paths and, if so, what (a) process such a review will adopt and (b) consultation with stakeholders in Scotland will be undertaken.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38670 on 21 January 2011 All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245191,"EventID":"S3W-38673","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37770 by Stewart Stevenson on 6 December 2010, whether it has now completed its consideration of Strathclyde Partnership for Transp","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37770 by Stewart Stevenson on 6 December 2010, whether it has now completed its consideration of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport’s final proposals for the modernisation of the Glasgow subway and, if so, whether it will provide details of its decision in this regard.","AnswerText":"Consideration of SPT''s proposal for the modernisation of the subway continues. We will report the outcome when those considerations are complete. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245192,"EventID":"S3W-38674","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual cost per patient in the State Hospital, Carstairs, was in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and what the expected cost is for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual cost per patient in the State Hospital, Carstairs, was in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and what the expected cost is for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"Cost per patient at The State Hospital; | 2007-08 | £135,513 | | 2008-09 | £151,773 | | 2009-10 | £202,615 | | 2010-11 (as at December 2010) | £224,014 | | 2011-12 (estimated) | £209,531 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245193,"EventID":"S3W-38675","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether health technology assessments have been carried out on any commercially available predictive genetic tests.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether health technology assessments have been carried out on any commercially available predictive genetic tests.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not commissioned any health technology assessments on commercially available predictive genetic tests. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245194,"EventID":"S3W-38676","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure public awareness of the value of commercially available predictive genetic testing.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure public awareness of the value of commercially available predictive genetic testing.","AnswerText":"It is not for Scottish ministers to raise awareness of specific products, nor to promote or advise on the use of products of this kind to the wider public. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245195,"EventID":"S3W-38677","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to eliminate bisphenol A from food packaging.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to eliminate bisphenol A from food packaging.","AnswerText":"Food safety controls on materials and articles in contact with food are harmonised at European level and Scottish Ministers are advised on such matters by the Food Standards Agency in Scotland. European Law currently allows the use of bisphenol A (BPA) up to certain permitted levels in many plastic food packaging materials. Since 2000 the FSA has undertaken two research projects and one survey on BPA in food contact materials. In all cases the levels of BPA identified were unlikely to be of concern to health. The agency continues to keep the published evidence on BPA under review and will act to protect consumers if the evidence shows that it is necessary to do so. In November 2010, a precautionary measure proposed by the European Commission was adopted which will introduce, from 1 March 2011, a phased European Union-wide prohibition on polycarbonate feeding bottles intended for infants of up to 12 months of age manufactured using BPA. The agency has recently completed a public consultation on a draft Scottish Statutory Instrument which would give effect to this new measure, along with an associated draft Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment, and is currently considering the responses. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245196,"EventID":"S3W-38678","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to improve the provision of acute pain services in light of the report by the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death, An Age","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to improve the provision of acute pain services in light of the report by the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death, An Age Old Problem: A review of the care received by elderly patients undergoing surgery.","AnswerText":"Although it operates UK-wide the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death reports do not normally cover Scotland as such work is undertaken by the Scottish Audit of Surgical Mortality. This report covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. However, we will consider any relevant learning for NHSScotland. The provision of acute pain services by the NHS in Scotland has been the subject of reviews by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland, against the clinical standards for anaesthesia. The most recent of these was published in September 2010 and found that the delivery of acute pain services had improved from the previous review in 2005, albeit with scope for further improvement. NHS boards are expected to have due regard to these findings in order to improve the quality of the service they provide. This reflects the ambitions in the Healthcare Quality Strategy for NHSScotland of safe, effective and person-centred care for every patient. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245197,"EventID":"S3W-38679","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Scotland had an in-hospital mortality rate following coronary artery bypass grafting of 2.2% between 2006 and 2008 compared with 1.8% in England and 1.1% ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Scotland had an in-hospital mortality rate following coronary artery bypass grafting of 2.2% between 2006 and 2008 compared with 1.8% in England and 1.1% in Wales.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Coronary Revascularisation Register (SCRR) has monitored Scottish coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) outcomes since 1996. Its data are thought to be more accurate than those of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, on which the Question is based. According to the SCRR, CABG inpatient mortality in Scotland between 2006 and 2008 was 1.6%. When making comparisons between countries it is important to bear in mind factors such as the variation between definitions used in monitoring performance, patient profiling and patient selection. Severity of disease, co-morbidities and age are also important factors in patient selection and can affect clinical outcomes. When comparing SCRR reports over time and between countries, Scotland has demonstrated ongoing improvement and clinical outcomes very much in line with the rest of the UK and Europe. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245198,"EventID":"S3W-38680","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it provides to the Scottish Ambulance Service in relation to the operation of the patient transport service.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it provides to the Scottish Ambulance Service in relation to the operation of the patient transport service.","AnswerText":"The operation of the patient transport service (PTS) is the responsibility of the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS), the Scottish Government does not issue specific guidance to the service. However, Scottish Government ministers and officials are in regular dialogue with the service about a range of issues, including the operation of the PTS. The operation of the Patient Transport Service forms part of the agenda for the public annual review held each year, and the areas of discussion and actions arising are set out in the follow up letter to the board chair. The 2010 letter and letters for previous years are also available at http://www.scottishambulance.com/AboutUs/Howweareperforming/AnnualReview.aspx. As part of the Local Delivery Plan (LDP) process the SAS agrees its annual performance targets with the Scottish Government. The SAS LDP for 2010-11 (Health Plan) can be found at http://www.scottishambulance.com/AboutUs/Default.aspx and LDPs for previous years are also available. This includes targets for the PTS, performance against these is regularly reported to the SAS Board and the Scottish Government. SAS Board papers are available on their website. The PTS provides a vital service for those patients with a medical need for transport. Both the Scottish Government and the Scottish Ambulance Service appreciate the importance of each and every journey and that is why we are committed to securing continuous improvement. We have both been frank in the past about the need for focus on improving the Patient Transport Service and has acknowledged that the service does not always meet the expectations of patients. That is why the Scottish Ambulance Service Strategic Framework Working together for better patient care 2010 “ 2015 sets out the service vision for the scheduled care service (PTS), this vision is underpinned by a series of actions being progressed by Scheduled Service Programme Board. Information about the strategic framework can be found at http://www.scottishambulance.com/AboutUs/Strategicframework.aspx. The service has now completed a Scheduled Care Accelerated Demonstrator Project (ADP) agreed as part of the SAS Learn and Improve project. The findings indicate that the programme appears to have significant potential to deliver substantial quality improvement and efficiency benefits through supporting service teams to improve the quality of service delivery and thus directly or indirectly benefiting patient care. The project has identified 11 improvement opportunities with the potential to: Significantly improve the PTS profile as a clinically focussed service by the consistent application of clinical criteria as a pre-requisite for accessing transport. Significantly improve and increase the service''s ability to signpost patients to alternative transport providers where ambulance transport is not required. Significantly reduce inappropriate demand on the service by standardising systems and processes. Significantly improve productivity and the utilisation of existing resources by consistently applying good practice, improving communications and making best use of available technology. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245199,"EventID":"S3W-38681","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what targets it issues to the Scottish Ambulance Service in relation to the operation of the patient transport service.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what targets it issues to the Scottish Ambulance Service in relation to the operation of the patient transport service.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38680 on 19 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245200,"EventID":"S3W-38682","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive (a) how and (b) how often it monitors the performance of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive (a) how and (b) how often it monitors the performance of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38680 on 19 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245201,"EventID":"S3W-38683","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has been necessary to take any action to address deficiencies in the operation of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service in the last five yea","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has been necessary to take any action to address deficiencies in the operation of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service in the last five years and, if so, whether it will detail the action taken.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38680 on 19 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245202,"EventID":"S3W-38684","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is content with the performance of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service in relation to ensuring that patients are (a) delivered punctually ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is content with the performance of the Scottish Ambulance Service patient transport service in relation to ensuring that patients are (a) delivered punctually for and (b) picked up punctually following appointments.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38680 on 19 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245203,"EventID":"S3W-38685","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to transfer staff from Waterwatch Scotland to Consumer Focus Scotland and, if so, how the interests of consumers protected by Waterwatch Scotland will be","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to transfer staff from Waterwatch Scotland to Consumer Focus Scotland and, if so, how the interests of consumers protected by Waterwatch Scotland will be maintained, in light of the UK Government’s proposal to abolish Consumer Focus.","AnswerText":"Staff from Waterwatch Scotland would be transferred to Consumer Focus Scotland on the commencement of the relevant provisions of the Public Service Reform (Scotland) Act 2010. A commencement order for these provisions can only be made after the Scottish Parliament elections in May 2011. To ensure the smooth transfer of business and staff the Scottish Government has agreed a planned transfer date of 1 July 2011 with Waterwatch Scotland, Consumer Focus Scotland and the Scottish Public Service Ombudsman. The UK Government will shortly be launching a consultation on its proposals for consumer advocacy and has made clear that Consumer Focus will continue to function well into 2012. The Scottish Government is in discussions with the UK Government and Consumer Focus Scotland as to the best way to maintain strong advocacy on a range of consumer interests, including water. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245204,"EventID":"S3W-38686","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in delivering improvements to the Highland main line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in delivering improvements to the Highland main line.","AnswerText":"Ministers confirmed in the Scottish draft budget for 2011-12 that services operating between Inverness and the central belt will increase from nine to 11 trains per day. The increase in service frequency is expected to be introduced in the December 2011 timetable. In addition, Network Rail will undertake work on the route to reduce journey times. It is anticipated that this work will be completed in time for the May 2012 timetable. The increases in service frequency and line speed enhancements form phase one of the Highland Main Line Improvements project. Transport Scotland is currently working closely with Network Rail and First ScotRail on the detail for the delivery of this phase. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245205,"EventID":"S3W-38687","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether an hourly rail service between Inverness and Edinburgh/Glasgow will be achieved by December 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether an hourly rail service between Inverness and Edinburgh/Glasgow will be achieved by December 2011.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38686 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245206,"EventID":"S3W-38688","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the speed improvements to reduce the Inverness to Edinburgh/Glasgow rail journey time by 35 minutes to be introduced.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the speed improvements to reduce the Inverness to Edinburgh/Glasgow rail journey time by 35 minutes to be introduced.","AnswerText":"The project will be delivered in phases and provides incremental journey time reductions. The first phase of the Highland Main Line Improvements Project is anticipated to deliver journey time reductions from May 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245207,"EventID":"S3W-38689","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the trial upgrading of the engines on the current Turbostar train rolling stock has been successful.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the trial upgrading of the engines on the current Turbostar train rolling stock has been successful.","AnswerText":"The trial involving the upgrade of some engines fitted to ScotRail class 170 Turbostar trains was not successful on express routes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245208,"EventID":"S3W-38690","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans for trials of Meridian or Voyager train units between Inverness and Edinburgh/Glasgow.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans for trials of Meridian or Voyager train units between Inverness and Edinburgh/Glasgow.","AnswerText":"ScotRail has no plans to trial these trains on these routes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245209,"EventID":"S3W-38691","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans for the reinstatement of passing loops at Ballinluig and Newtonmore.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans for the reinstatement of passing loops at Ballinluig and Newtonmore.","AnswerText":"As part of the development of the Highland Main Line Improvements Project, Network Rail will be taking forward work to deliver infrastructure enhancements. These enhancements may include passing loops at Ballinluig and Newtonmore which could provide additional journey time reductions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245210,"EventID":"S3W-38692","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to upgrade the three single track lines from Inverness.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to upgrade the three single track lines from Inverness.","AnswerText":"Transport Scotland is working closely with Network Rail on developing the Aberdeen to Inverness Rail Improvements Project, which includes potential track upgrading along the 109 mile route. However, we have no plans at present to upgrade the single track lines between Inverness and the Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and Thurso/Wick. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245211,"EventID":"S3W-38693","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in upgrading the secondary route via Newburgh from Hilton Junction on the Inverness to Edinburgh rail line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in upgrading the secondary route via Newburgh from Hilton Junction on the Inverness to Edinburgh rail line.","AnswerText":"Re-modelling of the Hilton Junction on the Edinburgh to Inverness rail line has taken place, which has provided improved line speeds as part of Network Rail''s track renewal programme. Work to upgrade the track is still ongoing and should provide further line speed improvements along the route to Ladybank during 2011. Network Rail plans further improvements to Ladybank Junction, which is anticipated to provide additional journey time reductions. This work is expected to be completed in 2013. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245212,"EventID":"S3W-38694","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide funding to the Rural Community Transport Initiative Small Projects Fund in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide funding to the Rural Community Transport Initiative Small Projects Fund in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Rural Community Transport Initiative Small Projects Fund closed on 31 March 2008. We have no plans to reintroduce the scheme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245213,"EventID":"S3W-38695","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what aspects of the Green Deal will impact on devolved matters.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what aspects of the Green Deal will impact on devolved matters.","AnswerText":"The aspects of the Green Deal which will impact on devolved matters that will be subject to the Legislative Consent Memorandum laid in the Parliament on 13 December 2010 are: Areas of the Green Deal (domestic and non-domestic) around energy efficiency which are devolved; Areas of the Energy Company Obligation around areas that are devolved, and In addition, there are also areas of the UK Energy Bill and subsequent Green Deal policy where Scottish Ministers will have powers to make regulations. For example, because energy performance certificates are different in Scotland, the disclosure provisions of the Green Deal in relation to the private and social rented sectors and for disclosure to home owners will require an equivalent alternative approach to ensure the framework regulations represent the Scottish interest. It has further been agreed that the UK Government will consult with, and require the consent of, Scottish Ministers prior to making any provisions that will affect Scotland. Our overall aim is to ensure that the Green Deal acts to support the Scottish Energy Efficiency Action Plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245214,"EventID":"S3W-38696","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to implement or adapt any of the proposals in the Green Deal.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to implement or adapt any of the proposals in the Green Deal.","AnswerText":"The Green Deal is a UK Government led initiative and is expected to be delivered UK wide. In Scotland delivery will differ to take account for devolved matters such as housing and building controls. We are working closely with UK Government colleagues to ensure that the policy being developed takes account of Scottish specific circumstances such as differing house types, location issues, climate etc, and acts to support the delivery of the Scottish Energy Efficiency Action Plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245215,"EventID":"S3W-38697","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to hold policy consultations related to the introduction of the proposals in the Green Deal.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to hold policy consultations related to the introduction of the proposals in the Green Deal.","AnswerText":"Plans are currently underway for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), working with the Scottish Government, to deliver several stakeholder seminars in Scotland on the UK Energy Bill and the Green Deal. We see this as a first step of engagement and consultation to be held by DECC and the Scottish Government as the Green Deal policy rolls out. Scottish Government will also be consulting on areas of the policy that impact on devolved areas, during the course of the policy development. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245216,"EventID":"S3W-38698","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Department of Energy and Climate Change regarding the proposals in the Green Deal.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Department of Energy and Climate Change regarding the proposals in the Green Deal.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has been working closely with the DECC on both the UK Energy Bill which when approved will give powers to develop the Green Deal policy, and the emerging policy work on the Green Deal policy. We have worked to ensure that the UK Bill reflects Scottish interests and that it recognises Scottish devolved areas. We are also engaged with officials in the development of the policy to ensure that Scotland can implement the Green Deal in a manner that meets Scotland''s specific circumstances e.g. location, climate, house types etc. A particular priority for us is to ensure that the Green Deal acts to support the Scottish Energy Efficiency Action Plan. We have a member of Scottish Government staff working in DECC to assist with this process. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245217,"EventID":"S3W-38699","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3806,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with energy or public utility companies regarding the proposals in the Green Deal.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with energy or public utility companies regarding the proposals in the Green Deal.","AnswerText":"Policy development on the Green Deal is at an early stage and we are engaging and negotiating with the UK Government to ensure Scottish circumstances are recognised. We have had discussions with energy companies as part of the CERT (Carbon Emissions Reduction Target) Strategy Group where an overview of the policy was given and discussion on the impact on energy companies was explored. Further discussions, consultation and stakeholder engagement is likely to be carried out by the UK Government and Scottish Government as the policy develops. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245218,"EventID":"S3W-38700","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what involvement it has with Work Choice, the supported employment scheme for disabled people.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what involvement it has with Work Choice, the supported employment scheme for disabled people.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has worked closely with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on the development of its Work Choice programme for disabled people. My officials will continue to liaise with DWP, Jobcentre Plus and other partners including the Prime Providers, Shaw Trust and Momentum Ltd., on the rollout of Work Choice and will monitor the impact on disabled people in Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245219,"EventID":"S3W-38701","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, what the budget for enforcing the smoke-free legislation provided by means of a block g","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, what the budget for enforcing the smoke-free legislation provided by means of a block grant was for (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09, (c) 2009-10 and is in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"£2.5 million was included in the 2007-08 local government finance settlement for enforcing the smoke-free laws. This funding, which has been maintained, was included as part of the general block grant and it is a matter for individual local authorities to allocate the total resources available to them on the basis of local needs and priorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245220,"EventID":"S3W-38702","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, for what reason the budget for smoke-free laws was applied separately from the enforcin","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, for what reason the budget for smoke-free laws was applied separately from the enforcing of smoke-free legislation.","AnswerText":"With reference to my response to question S3W-37464 the budget for the smoke-free laws has not been applied separately from the budget for smoke-free legislation. This budget allows local authorities to enforce the smoke-free laws. Separately identified in my response to S3W-37464 was the specific budget for the new Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Act 2010. This budget in the main will be used to raise awareness of the measures contained in the new act, specifically among tobacco retailers but also the general public. It will also be used to produce guidance materials for the trading standards service and to set up a national register of tobacco retailers. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245221,"EventID":"S3W-38703","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, how much of the £425,000 allocated to the implementation of the Tobacco and Primary Med","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37464 by Shona Robison on 11 November 2010, how much of the £425,000 allocated to the implementation of the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Act 2010 (a) has been spent and (b) is expected to be spent by the end of 2010-11.","AnswerText":"As at 12 January 2011, £244,617 has been spent from the allocated budget. We expect to spend the remainder of the budget by the end of this financial year. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245222,"EventID":"S3W-38704","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it publishes comparisons of non-domestic rates repayments broken down by local authority area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it publishes comparisons of non-domestic rates repayments broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38707 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245223,"EventID":"S3W-38705","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what length of time would constitute prompt repayment of non-domestic rates, as referred to in Local Government Finance Circular No. 15/2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what length of time would constitute prompt repayment of non-domestic rates, as referred to in Local Government Finance Circular No. 15/2010.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38707 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245224,"EventID":"S3W-38706","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what processes are in place to assess the timeliness of local authorities’ repayment of non-domestic rates.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what processes are in place to assess the timeliness of local authorities’ repayment of non-domestic rates.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38707 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245225,"EventID":"S3W-38707","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what processes are in place to address delays in repayments of non-domestic rates by local authorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what processes are in place to address delays in repayments of non-domestic rates by local authorities.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government engages regularly with a range of ratepayers and business organisations on the operation of the business rates system. As part of that engagement, at a rate payers forum meeting on 16 December 2010 involving a range of rate payers and business organisations it was agreed that the Scottish Government would remind local authorities of the need for prompt repayment, particularly when the rates liability reduces as the result of a successful valuation appeal. This led to the issue of Local Government Finance Circular No 15/2010 on 20 December 2010. As set out in that finance circular, the Scottish Government considers that any repayment of business rates should be made as soon as possible, particularly in the current economic climate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245226,"EventID":"S3W-38708","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of retail price index it used when calculating non-domestic rates revenue for 2011-12 as set out in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of retail price index it used when calculating non-domestic rates revenue for 2011-12 as set out in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to the Scottish poundage rate not rising above the English poundage rate during the current Scottish Parliament. The calculations underpinning the Draft Budget 2011-12, published on 17 November 2010, were based on a then anticipated inflationary uplift in the poundage rate of 2.5 per cent. The UK Government announced on 14 December 2010 that the uplift for the poundage in England would be 4.6 per cent, and this is now the rate used for the Scottish poundage. The estimated income will be subject to a number of factors including take up of reliefs, appeals and balances in the non-domestic rates income (NDRI) pool. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245227,"EventID":"S3W-38709","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the total non-domestic rates income would be in 2011-12 if the poundage rate were increased by 3% from 2010-11 and how this differs from the estimate in Scotland’s S","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the total non-domestic rates income would be in 2011-12 if the poundage rate were increased by 3% from 2010-11 and how this differs from the estimate in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The estimated non-domestic rates income in the Draft Budget 2011-12, published on 17 November 2010, was based on a then anticipated inflationary uplift in the poundage rate of 2.5 per cent. The increase in revenue resulting from a 3.0 per cent uplift in the poundage rate rather than the 2.5 per cent inflationary uplift assumed at the time of the Draft Budget 2011-12 publication would be around £11 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245228,"EventID":"S3W-38710","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what business poundage rate assumptions it used to calculate the non-domestic rates income for 2011-12 at £2,179.5 million.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what business poundage rate assumptions it used to calculate the non-domestic rates income for 2011-12 at £2,179.5 million.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s estimate of distributable non-domestic rate income for 2011-12 in the Draft Budget 2011-12 is £2,170.5 million. The £2,179.5 million figure published in the Draft Budget includes an additional £9 million for other Annually Managed Expenditure grants as noted in Table 14.01 in Scotland''s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12. The Scottish Government is committed to the Scottish poundage rate not rising above the English poundage rate during the current Scottish Parliament. The calculations underpinning the Draft Budget 2011-12, published on 17 November 2010, were based on a then anticipated inflationary uplift in the poundage rate of 2.5 per cent. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245229,"EventID":"S3W-38711","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it estimates the non-domestic rates income for 2011-12 will be, broken down by the amount received from businesses paying (a) the poundage rate at 43.3p, (b) the lar","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it estimates the non-domestic rates income for 2011-12 will be, broken down by the amount received from businesses paying (a) the poundage rate at 43.3p, (b) the large business supplement, (c) the large retail supplement, (d) the 50% small business bonus, (e) the 25% small business bonus and (f) other discounted rates.","AnswerText":"The information requested is given in the following table using updated income estimates except that the actual poundage rate of 42.6p for 2011-12 has been used rather than a rate of 43.3p. A poundage rate of 43.3p would double count the large business supplement of 0.7p. Estimated Distributable Amount 2011-12 (£ Million) | Description | | | Non-domestic rate income at 42.6p | 2,828.4 | | plus: Large business supplement (0.7p) | 36.9 | | plus: Large retail supplement | 30 | | less: total small business bonus scheme relief | -128.4 | | less: all other reliefs | -384.2 | | less: other adjustments² | -212.3 | | Total estimated distributable amount³ | 2,170.5 | Notes: 1. There are three bands of relief under the Small Business Bonus Scheme (100%, 50% and 25%) and these are given in total. 2. Other adjustments include write offs, bad debts collected, back dated reliefs, prior year adjustments and preliminary estimates of adjustments for appeals, all of which are subject to revision as more up to date information becomes available. As a result, the total amount above is also subject to revision from time to time. 3. Numbers may not add due to rounding. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245230,"EventID":"S3W-38712","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the percentage increase in business rates bills for retail properties with a rateable value greater than £750,000 in 2011-12 compared with ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the percentage increase in business rates bills for retail properties with a rateable value greater than £750,000 in 2011-12 compared with 2010-11, expressed in (a) cash and (b) real terms.","AnswerText":"At an individual property level, the percentage increase in business rates bills for retail properties that will apply from 2011-12 compared to 2010-11 ranges from between 8.9% in cash terms, or 6.4% in real terms, for those retail properties with a rateable value of more than £750,000 but less than £1,000,000, to 39.1% in cash terms, or 35.8% in real terms, for those retailers with a rateable value over £2,140,000. These figures include both the annual increase in the poundage rate and the proposed new large retail property supplement. However, companies liable for the large retail supplement would only pay it on the largest of their properties. For these companies, business rates typically account for around 2% of turnover. In terms of their total business rates bills, the large retail supplement would only generally account for around an additional 0.3% of turnover. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245231,"EventID":"S3W-38713","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget is for each Business Improvement District (BID) project, showing (a) amounts raised from businesses by BID levies and (b) grants.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget is for each Business Improvement District (BID) project, showing (a) amounts raised from businesses by BID levies and (b) grants.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. Business Improvement District (BID) companies are organisations which are independent of the Scottish Government. Projects, including the budgets and funding for these, which individual BID companies take forward are therefore a matter for each company. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245232,"EventID":"S3W-38714","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the amounts raised from businesses through Business Improvement District levies came from retailers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the amounts raised from businesses through Business Improvement District levies came from retailers.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. Amounts raised through Business Improvement District (BID) levies are a matter for each BID company. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245233,"EventID":"S3W-38715","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the number of jobs created by retailers since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the number of jobs created by retailers since 2007.","AnswerText":"There is no information held centrally on the number of jobs created in Scotland. However, data are available on the net change in jobs over time. Data on the number of workforce jobs by broad sector are available on a quarterly basis. Table 1 shows the number of workforce jobs in wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles. Table 1: Workforce Jobs, Scotland, Wholesale and Retail Trade; Repair of Motor Vehicles and Motorcycles | Date | Jobs | | 2007Q1 | 378,000 | | 2007Q2 | 379,300 | | 2007Q3 | 382,500 | | 2007Q4 | 391,700 | | 2008Q1 | 390,800 | | 2008Q2 | 394,900 | | 2008Q3 | 392,600 | | 2008Q4 | 381,000 | | 2009Q1 | 383,700 | | 2009Q2 | 388,100 | | 2009Q3 | 387,800 | | 2009Q4 | 382,100 | | 2010Q1 | 358,400 | | 2010Q2 | 359,400 | | 2010Q3 | 355,300 | Source: Office for National Statistics, Workforce Jobs. Data are seasonally adjusted and rounded to the nearest 100. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245234,"EventID":"S3W-38716","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the number of jobs in construction and associated trades supported by investment from retailers since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the number of jobs in construction and associated trades supported by investment from retailers since 2007.","AnswerText":"As with the UK and other developed economies, an estimate of the impact of business investment by specific sectors, such as retail, on other sectors of the economy is not carried out as part of any assessment of the economy. Business investment is however an important driver of aggregate demand in the economy and is measured on that basis. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245235,"EventID":"S3W-38717","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional revenue would be raised if the large retail supplement were increased from 0.7p to 0.8p in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional revenue would be raised if the large retail supplement were increased from 0.7p to 0.8p in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The large retail supplement applies to properties with a rateable value of over £750,000 and involves a range of levels starting at 2.5p. The large business supplement, which applies to properties with a rateable value over £35,000 and has been in place for many years in both Scotland and in England, is currently 0.7p. Increasing the large business supplement from 0.7p to 0.8p would raise an additional estimated £5.3 million in 2011-12. This estimate is before any account is taken of reliefs and appeals, which would reduce the amount. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245236,"EventID":"S3W-38718","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional revenue would be raised if a new supplement of 0.1p was applied to all properties with a rateable value in excess of £1 million.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional revenue would be raised if a new supplement of 0.1p was applied to all properties with a rateable value in excess of £1 million.","AnswerText":"It is not possible to provide an accurate estimate. While an estimated £1.7 million could be raised in 2011-12 by applying a 0.1p universal supplement to all property with a rateable value over £1 million, the actual amount would be lower once appeals and reliefs are taken into account. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245237,"EventID":"S3W-38719","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) total rateable value and (b) number of rateable properties will be in 2011-12, broken down by (i) sector and (ii) bands of (A) up to £18,000, (B) £18,001 to ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) total rateable value and (b) number of rateable properties will be in 2011-12, broken down by (i) sector and (ii) bands of (A) up to £18,000, (B) £18,001 to £34,999, (C) £35,000 to £49,999, (D) £50,000 to £64,999, (E) £65,000 to £89,999, (F) £90,000 to £119,999, (G) £120,000 to £249,999, (H) £250,000 to £499,999, (I) £500,000 to £999,999 and (J) £1,000,000 and over.","AnswerText":"The total number of properties and combined rateable values of all properties broken down by band and sector is as follows. | Sector | Zero Rated | (a) Up to £18,000 | (b) £18,001 to £34,999 | | No. | No. | Rateable Value | No. | Rateable Value | | Advertising | 0 | 1,937 | 5,645,334 | 33 | 832,605 | | Care Facilities | 5 | 1,624 | 12,065,760 | 555 | 14,172,500 | | Communications | 11 | 286 | 961,755 | 13 | 315,200 | | Cultural | 23 | 942 | 6,401,120 | 204 | 5,089,750 | | Education and Training | 8 | 933 | 8,566,390 | 510 | 13,057,325 | | Garages and Petrol Stations | 9 | 3,668 | 17,462,850 | 359 | 9,192,575 | | Health and Medical | 9 | 1,927 | 14,286,215 | 416 | 10,354,900 | | Hotels | 9 | 3,181 | 18,890,186 | 518 | 13,000,948 | | Industrial Subjects | 68 | 34,877 | | Sector | Zero Rated | £750,000 or Less | (a) £750,001 to £1,000,000 | | No. | Total Rateable Value | No. | Total Rateable Value | No. | Total Rateable Value | | Advertising | 0 | - | 1,985 | 8,405,189 | 0 | - | | Care facilities | 5 | 0 | 3,158 | 102,734,470 | 0 | - | | Communications | 11 | 0 | 364 | 13,086,805 | 1 | 909,000 | | Cultural | 23 | 0 | 1,337 | 31,902,620 | 0 | - | | Education and training | 8 | 0 | 3,852 | 398,946,865 | 46 | 39,159,000 | | Garages and petrol stations | 9 | 0 | 4,518 | 69,494,075 | 0 | - | | Health and medical | 9 | 0 | 3,067 | 105,800,015 | 7 ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245239,"EventID":"S3W-38721","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the total amount of non-domestic rates payable by all retail properties with a rateable value in excess of £750,000 is in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the total amount of non-domestic rates payable by all retail properties with a rateable value in excess of £750,000 is in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The combined rateable value of all non-domestic properties classified by the Scottish Assessors as shops with an individual rateable value over £750,000 is £330 million. For these properties in 2010-11, the business rates bill is estimated to be £137 million. In 2011-12, before application of the large retail property supplement, the rates bill for these properties is estimated to be £143 million. Both estimates are before the impact of appeals and reliefs. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245240,"EventID":"S3W-38722","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it estimates the non-domestic rates income would be in 2011-12, broken down by category of rateable value (RV), if the following supplements were applied for propert","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it estimates the non-domestic rates income would be in 2011-12, broken down by category of rateable value (RV), if the following supplements were applied for properties with the following RV: 2.5p for more than £750,000 but not exceeding £1,000,000; 5p for more than £1,000,000 but not exceeding £1,099,999; 10p for more than £1,099,999 but not exceeding £1,265,000; 12p for more than £1,265,000 but not exceeding £2,140,000, and 15p for more than £2,140,000.","AnswerText":"It is not possible to provide fully accurate estimates because appeals and reliefs will reduce expected income. However, the additional income generated in 2011-12 over and above the large business supplement, before taking account of appeals and reliefs, is estimated to be as follows. | If a supplement of 2.5p were paid by all property with a rateable value of more than £750,000, but not exceeding £1,000,000 | £4.4 million | | If a supplement of 5p were paid by all property with a rateable value of more than £1,000,000, but not exceeding £1,099,999 | £2.6 million | | If a supplement of 10p were paid by all property with a rateable value of more than £1,100,000, but not exceeding £1,265,000 | £10.7 million | | If a supplement of 12p were paid by all property with a rateable value of more than £1,265,001 but not exceeding £2,140,000 | £47.8 million | | If a supplement of 15p were paid by all property with a rateable value of more £2,140,000 | £156.5 million | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245241,"EventID":"S3W-38723","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the properties subject to the proposed large retail supplement is appealing the 2010 revaluation figure.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the properties subject to the proposed large retail supplement is appealing the 2010 revaluation figure.","AnswerText":"Information on whether an individual retail property with a rateable value of over £750,000, and therefore liable for the large retail supplement, is under appeal is not held centrally but is available on the Scottish Assessors'' website at www.saa.gov.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245242,"EventID":"S3W-38724","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects 2010 rates revaluations appeals to be concluded.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects 2010 rates revaluations appeals to be concluded.","AnswerText":"2010 Revaluation appeals must be disposed of by the Valuation Appeal Committees no later than 31 December 2013, although in practice many will be resolved well in advance of that date. In addition, in certain circumstances, appeals may be referred to the Lands Tribunal for determination. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245243,"EventID":"S3W-38725","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the criteria are for people to purchase prepaid prescriptions and what percentage of the adult population purchases these.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the criteria are for people to purchase prepaid prescriptions and what percentage of the adult population purchases these.","AnswerText":"A person who has a Community Health Index (CHI) number, or who is the holder of a valid entitlement card, is eligible to buy a Prescription Pre-payment Certificate (PPC). The people most likely to benefit from buying a PPC include those with long-term medical conditions who may need regular prescribed medicines, and who are not exempt from prescription charges. Four hundred and thirty-seven thousand, eight hundred and seventy-three PPCs were sold in 2009-10, broken down as 375,627 four-month certificates and 62,246 12-month certificates. However, patients can buy up to three four-month PPCs each year and as a result we do not hold data which shows how many individuals bought those certificates. Since 2007-08, the year prior to the introduction of our policy of phasing out prescription charges, the cost of a four-month certificate has been reduced from £35.85 to £10, and the cost of a 12-month certificate has been reduced from £98.70 to £28. The number of PPCs bought has increased over that period by 160%, benefitting all that buy them, particularly those with long-term conditions, for whom the cost of prescriptions may act as a barrier to maintaining good health. This barrier will be removed in Scotland when prescription charges are abolished on 1 April 2011, subject to parliamentary approval. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245244,"EventID":"S3W-38726","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public engagements were undertaken by each minister between 23 December 2010 and 9 January 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public engagements were undertaken by each minister between 23 December 2010 and 9 January 2011.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to pro-actively publishing all ministerial engagements three months in arrears. The information the member has requested will be published on the Scottish Government website in line with this commitment. You can access this information at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/About/14944/MinisterialEngagements ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245245,"EventID":"S3W-38727","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what research it has available demonstrating the connection between police numbers and the level of crime.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what research it has available demonstrating the connection between police numbers and the level of crime.","AnswerText":"The research report Community Policing: A review of the Evidence by Mackenzie and Henry, demonstrates that effective community policing is associated with a reduction in crime and disorder. This report was published by the Scottish Government in 2009, and is available at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/11/19091609/0. There are now 17,371 police officers in Scotland. This is an increase of 1,137 since March 2007. This government''s investment in police officer numbers has enabled chief constables to deploy significant new resources towards making our communities safer. This has helped to reduce Scotland''s crime rate to a 32 year low. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245246,"EventID":"S3W-38728","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to assess the risk to it and its agencies from (a) cybercrime and (b) cyber attack.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to assess the risk to it and its agencies from (a) cybercrime and (b) cyber attack.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government ICT network is connected to the Government Secure Intranet (GSI) and complies with the requirements for GSI accreditation. Risk assessment of the GSI is carried out by CESG, the national technical authority for information assurance. The Scottish Government has also carried out risk assessments of ICT systems against a range of threats. The Scottish Government has adopted the Cabinet Office Security Policy Framework (SPF), which provides technical standards, policy and guidance for security and information assurance, and is implementing its requirements, including risk assessment. The SPF also applies to Scottish Government agencies. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245247,"EventID":"S3W-38729","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what posts are currently unfilled in each prison and young offenders institution.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what posts are currently unfilled in each prison and young offenders institution.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: As at 18 January 2011 the posts that were vacant in each public sector prison and young offenders institution were as follows: | Establishment | Posts | Type | Pay Grades | | Aberdeen | 1.6 | Administration | B | | | 1.0 | Office Manager | E | | | 15.2 | Uniform Prison Staff | C, D & E | | Barlinnie | 3.9 | Administration | B | | | 1.4 | Administration | C | | | 3 | Office Manager | E | | | 6.8 | Uniform Prison Staff | C, D & E | | | 2 | Operational Manager | F+ | | | 0.4 | Chaplain | F | | | 5.5 | Nurse | D | | Cornton Vale | 0.2 | Administration | B | | | 1 | Administration | <","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245248,"EventID":"S3W-38730","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what estimates it has made regarding the amounts that might be realised from the sale of public assets in each year to 2015.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what estimates it has made regarding the amounts that might be realised from the sale of public assets in each year to 2015.","AnswerText":"The 2011-12 draft budget contains estimated health capital receipts of £10 million. Additional receipts would add to capital spending within individual portfolios. Detailed decisions as to the scale and timing of future disposals are a matter for the next spending review. No central estimate of the amounts that might be realised from the disposal of estates assets is maintained across the Scottish public sector as property management is decentralised to the body holding the assets. However, the recommendations of the Asset Management Review, published in January 2008, set out the principles of the Scottish Government strategy on estates asset management, reinforcing the Scottish Public Finance Manual guidelines which require assets to be disposed of as soon as they are declared surplus. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245249,"EventID":"S3W-38731","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated number of crossings of the Forth Road Bridge was in each of the last five years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated number of crossings of the Forth Road Bridge was in each of the last five years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"Responsibility for the operations of the Forth Road Bridge is a matter for the Forth Estuary Transport Authority (FETA). ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245250,"EventID":"S3W-38732","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has estimated the cost of setting up separate departments for (a) pensions, (b) employment, (c) social security benefits, (d) road tax, (e) passports, (f) driv","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has estimated the cost of setting up separate departments for (a) pensions, (b) employment, (c) social security benefits, (d) road tax, (e) passports, (f) driving licences, (g) defence, (h) foreign affairs and (i) other reserved areas should Scotland become independent.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-30960 on 16 February 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245251,"EventID":"S3W-38733","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many train journeys on the Motherwell/Coatbridge Central/Cumbernauld route were cancelled between November 2010 and 11 January 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many train journeys on the Motherwell/Coatbridge Central/Cumbernauld route were cancelled between November 2010 and 11 January 2011.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. ScotRail is not contractually required to produce performance information in this format. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245252,"EventID":"S3W-38734","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3538,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":13,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the staffing ratio per bed is of qualified nurses in paediatric intensive care units.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the staffing ratio per bed is of qualified nurses in paediatric intensive care units.","AnswerText":"Paediatric intensive care units in Scotland follow the Paediatric Intensive Care Society Paediatric Intensive Care Standards for staffing ratio per bed as a minimum guide. The PICS Standards state the ratio should vary from 1:1 to 2:1, depending on the level of care required. The actual level of qualified nurse per bed is set following an assessment of individual patient nursing needs. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245253,"EventID":"S3W-38735","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what external technical advisors in energy and energy engineering it has used in the formulation of policy and what meetings it has had with them in the last 12 months.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what external technical advisors in energy and energy engineering it has used in the formulation of policy and what meetings it has had with them in the last 12 months.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government works in partnership with industry, academia and the public sector in the formulation of energy policy. This includes regular meetings of the Scottish Energy Advisory Board (SEAB) and a network of themed advisory groups, the membership of which includes significant technical and engineering expertise, and which takes expert advice on specific technical and engineering issues as required. The membership, dates and minutes of all meetings of the SEAB, and advisory groups including the Forum for Renewable Energy Development in Scotland are published on the Scottish Government''s at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/Energy/resources/working-groups/energy-advisory-board/ The Scottish government also leads, or is a partner in a number of collaborative projects which provide access to the work of technical experts from academia and industry. These include an EU working group on North Sea grid connections; the Irish-Scottish links in energy study and the GP wind project, which aims to develop good practice with European partners in order to reconcile objectives on renewable energy with wider environmental objectives. In addition, the Scottish Government commissions a range of technical and engineering consultants to carry out specific studies to help inform policy development. Recently, this has included an energy storage and management study, carried out by AEA Technology, which was published in November 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245254,"EventID":"S3W-38736","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will issue guidance to local authorities to ensure that the implementation of personalised budgets for disabled people will not lead to a deterioration in the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will issue guidance to local authorities to ensure that the implementation of personalised budgets for disabled people will not lead to a deterioration in the care that they receive.","AnswerText":"The National Strategy for Self-directed Support (SDS) sets out the core values and principles of SDS. Implementation of the strategy should deliver improved outcomes for people who need support and should not lead to a deterioration in the care they receive. I have recently written to those with a role in implementation, including Directors of Social Work, outlining the importance of the values and principles of SDS. A copy of this letter is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/care/adult-care-and-support/independent-living. A National Implementation Group is currently developing an action plan that will include consideration of the need for further SDS guidance. The 2007 Scottish Government guidance on self-directed support states that, when arranging an SDS package, a local authority should meet the cost of providing a service which is of an equivalent standard to that which it would otherwise provide. The Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 places a firm duty of care on local authorities, and SDS does not remove that. The Scottish Government is also consulting on a draft Self-directed Support Bill. The bill seeks to enshrine choice and control through general principles that enable the citizen to choose how they wish to receive their care and support. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245255,"EventID":"S3W-38737","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether NHSScotland undertakes or is planning to undertake contracts for cloud computing and, if so, with what companies.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether NHSScotland undertakes or is planning to undertake contracts for cloud computing and, if so, with what companies.","AnswerText":"NHSScotland is monitoring the development of cloud services but has no current plans to let national contracts for cloud-based services at this time. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245256,"EventID":"S3W-38738","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3763,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many shops have failed test purchasing for selling tobacco products since 2003, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many shops have failed test purchasing for selling tobacco products since 2003, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. However, the information has been routinely collected by the Society for Chief Officers for Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS) from 1 April 2008. The information is shown in the following table. Breakdown of Tobacco Test Purchasing Failures per Authority between 1 April 2008 and 30 September 2010. | Local Authority | First Failure | Second Failure | Total | | Aberdeen City | 35 | 7 | 42 | | Aberdeenshire | 8 | 2 | 10 | | Angus | 20 | 4 | 24 | | Argyll and Bute | 40 | 0 | 40 | | Comhairle nan Eilean Siar | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Clackmannanshire | 8 | 1 | 9 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 14 | 0 | 14 | | Dundee | 15 | 0 | 15 | | East Ayrshire | 8 | 0 | 8 | | East Dunbartonshire | 9 | 0 | 9 | | East Lothian | 12 | 0 | 12 | | East Renfrewshire | 15 | 2 | 17 | | Edinburgh | 68 | 3 | 71 | | Falkirk | 0 | 0 | 0 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245258,"EventID":"S3W-38740","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many GP practices used premium rate telephone numbers as of 1 November 2010, broken down by NHS board area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many GP practices used premium rate telephone numbers as of 1 November 2010, broken down by NHS board area.","AnswerText":"As of 1 November 2010, 40 GP practices were using premium rate telephone numbers. This represents around 4% of the total GP practices in Scotland. The geographic breakdown across health board area is detailed in the following table. | Health Board | Number | | Ayrshire and Arran | 4 | | Borders | 0 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 0 | | Fife | 1 | | Forth Valley | 1 | | Grampian | 20 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 4 | | Highland | 3 | | Lanarkshire | 3 | | Lothian | 4 | | Orkney | 0 | | Shetland | 0 | | Tayside | 0 | | Western Isles | 0 | | Total | 40 | Note: Not all 084 telephone numbers are charged at a premium rate. Callers using BT landlines are charged at local rates. Mobile and other landline providers normally charge premium rates to 084 numbers. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245259,"EventID":"S3W-38741","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) initial estimated cost was and (b) current forecast cost is of the development of the new Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) initial estimated cost was and (b) current forecast cost is of the development of the new Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles.","AnswerText":"Initial cost estimates were based on a small scale re-development of the existing facilities budgeted at approximately £2 million. This was based on an upgrade of the existing facilities at the Osprey Car Park. This would significantly have reduced car park capacity and caused disruption to business. The current forecast for the new Glentress Peel Project stands at £8.5 million. This final forecast cost for the project includes the purchase of the new 12 acre site, the design and build of four new purpose built sustainable buildings (caf©, bike shop, service building with offices and meeting rooms including a woodfuel heating system, wildlife viewing with interpretation, changing, showers and toilets), additional car parking and significantly improved access from the A72. The project is within the approved budget and timetable. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245260,"EventID":"S3W-38742","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many visitors the Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles, has had and how many of these were mountain bikers, in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many visitors the Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles, has had and how many of these were mountain bikers, in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The amount of visitors to the Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles in each of the last five years is listed in the following table. | Financial Year | Total Visits | Mountain Biker Visits (3) | Comments on Vehicle Data | | 2005-06 | 222,000 | 104,000 | Count (1) | | 2006-07 | 234,000 | 110,000 | Count (1) | | 2007-08 | 248,000 | 117,000 | Count (1) | | 2008-09 | 266,000 | 125,000 | Estimate (2) | | 2009-10 | 301,000 | 141,000 | Estimate (2) | Notes: 1. Data sourced from induction loop vehicle counter with a calibration sample survey to determine vehicle occupancy (figures are rounded up). 2. Counter removed from Glentress Forest access road during construction of new road junction and access as part of the new development. The estimated figures are based on an extrapolation of historic figures informed by recent monthly data from new counter on new access road from part of calendar year 2010. 3. Estimated breakdown of purpose of visit determined by All Forests visitor survey undertaken in 2004-05. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245261,"EventID":"S3W-38743","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many vehicles used, and how much revenue was raised by, the car park at the Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles, in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many vehicles used, and how much revenue was raised by, the car park at the Forestry Commission visitor centre at Glentress, Peebles, in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The amount of vehicles and revenue raised at the Forestry Commission visitor centre and car park at Glentress, Peebles in each of the last five years is listed in the following table. | Year | Number of Vehicles | Revenue | Comments on Vehicle Data | | 2005-06 | 101,000 | 49,000 | Count (1) | | 2006-07 | 106,000 | 56,000 | Count (1) | | 2007-08 | 113,000 | 59,000 | Count (1) | | 2008-09 | 114,000 | 84,000 | Estimate (2) | | 2009-10 | 120,000 | 103,000 | Estimate (2) | Notes: 1. Data sourced from induction loop vehicle counter (figures are rounded up). 2. Counter removed from Glentress Forest access road during construction of new road junction and access as part of the new development. The estimated figures are based on an extrapolation of historic figures informed by recent monthly data from new counter on new access road during calendar year 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245262,"EventID":"S3W-38744","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3743,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many written representations regarding town centre regeneration funding it has received from (a) the convener of infrastructure services and (b) officials of Angus Co","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many written representations regarding town centre regeneration funding it has received from (a) the convener of infrastructure services and (b) officials of Angus Council in each month since October 2009.","AnswerText":"We have received no written representations from the Convener of Infrastructure Services of Angus Council within this timeframe. According to our records, we have received written representation from Angus Council officials as follows: | Month | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | | January | | 0 | 0 | | February | | 7 | | | March | | 6 | | | April | | 3 | | | May | | 5 | | | June | | 1 | | | July | | 1 | | | August | | 3 | | | September | | 0 | | | October | | 2 | | | November | | 2 | | | December | 3 | 6 | | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245263,"EventID":"S3W-38745","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3743,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many requests for meetings regarding town centre regeneration funding it has received from (a) the convener of infrastructure services and (b) officials of Angus Coun","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many requests for meetings regarding town centre regeneration funding it has received from (a) the convener of infrastructure services and (b) officials of Angus Council in each month since October 2009.","AnswerText":"We have received no requests for meetings regarding town centre regeneration funding from the Convener of Infrastructure Services at Angus Council within that timeframe. According to our records, there were five meetings held with Angus Council officials: in December 2009, February 2010, May 2010, June 2010 and September 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245264,"EventID":"S3W-38746","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1857,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":15,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidelines it issues to NHS boards to ensure that disabled people have access to pharmacies.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidelines it issues to NHS boards to ensure that disabled people have access to pharmacies.","AnswerText":"The Achieving Fair Access guidance was issued in October 2006, to help NHS Scotland meet the needs of disabled people. Health Facilities Scotland issued in August 2007 a non-binding guidance note SHPN 36-3 Community Pharmacy Premises in Scotland for those planning new premises or upgrades to existing community pharmacies. The formal responsibility for registration and standards for pharmacies in the United Kingdom lies with the recently established General Pharmaceutical Council who have yet to issue formal guidance. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245265,"EventID":"S3W-38747","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1857,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":15,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the guidelines issued to NHS boards in relation to access to pharmacies are compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the guidelines issued to NHS boards in relation to access to pharmacies are compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is not aware that any existing guidance related to Community Pharmacy in Scotland issued by the Scottish Government including through the NHS is inconsistent with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245266,"EventID":"S3W-38748","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3743,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it plans to ensure effective independent monitoring of prisons.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it plans to ensure effective independent monitoring of prisons.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government will consult formally over the next few months on the best and most effective way of providing independent monitoring of prisons across Scotland. The consultation will be launched on 14 January 2011. A copy of the document will be placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52280). ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245267,"EventID":"S3W-38749","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which aspects of the Supporting Sustainability budget will be affected by the reduction in that budget line of £20.7 million between 2010-11 and 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which aspects of the Supporting Sustainability budget will be affected by the reduction in that budget line of £20.7 million between 2010-11 and 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The reductions arise from the agreed profile of grant payments due to landlords which acquired housing stock transferred from local authorities; and from a reduction in the budget supporting the Energy Assistance Package, reflecting the reduction of almost 25% in the capital funding provided to the Scottish Government by the UK Government. Final budget decisions, of course will depend on Parliament''s consideration of the 2011-12 Budget Bill. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245268,"EventID":"S3W-38750","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which aspects of the Supporting Transitions budget will be affected by the reduction in that budget line of £20.2 million between 2010-11 and 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which aspects of the Supporting Transitions budget will be affected by the reduction in that budget line of £20.2 million between 2010-11 and 2011-12.","AnswerText":"Whilst some decisions have been taken about the allocation of the £57.2 million budget published in the draft budget 2011-12, further decisions remain to be finalised. Therefore, it is not possible at this stage to confirm which aspects of the draft budget will be affected by the proposed reduction between 2010-11 and 2011-12. Final budget decisions, of course will depend on the Parliament''s consideration of the 2011-12 Budget Bill. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245269,"EventID":"S3W-38751","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it proposes to do with the new £50 million competitive funding contained in the draft housing budget.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it proposes to do with the new £50 million competitive funding contained in the draft housing budget.","AnswerText":"We will use the fund to encourage applications from all providers to increase new affordable housing supply as much as possible. Further details will be made available shortly. \r\nm","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245270,"EventID":"S3W-38752","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been readmitted within 24 hours of discharge in each year since 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been readmitted within 24 hours of discharge in each year since 1999.","AnswerText":"The following table shows the number of emergency readmissions to hospital which took place on either the same day or following day when compared to the preceding hospital stay. Number of Hospital Emergency Readmissions on the Same Day or following Day from the Preceding Hospital Stay; Calendar Years 1999 to 2009 | Calendar Year | Total Number of Hospital Stays | Number of Emergency Readmissions | Readmissions on the Same or Following Day as a % of all Hospital Stays | | 1999 | 1,085,821 | 7,850 | 0.72% | | 2000 | 1,079,376 | 8,112 | 0.75% | | 2001 | 1,071,263 | 8,593 | 0.80% | | 2002 | 1,036,562 | 8,361 | 0.81% | | 2003 | 1,024,488 | 8,180 | 0.80% | | 2004 | 1,045,285 | 8,680 | 0.83% | | 2005 | 1,058,524 | 8,793 | 0.83% | | 2006 | 1,095,338 | 9,596 | 0.88% | | 2007 | 1,112,211 | 10,710 | 0.96% | | 2008 | 1,143,908 | 11,336 | 0.99% | | 2009 | 1,161,137 | 11,282 | 0.97% | Source: ISD Scotland (SMR01). ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245271,"EventID":"S3W-38753","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38443 by Nicola Sturgeon on 11 January 2011, what steps it is taking to link more detailed information on diagnosis and outcomes to","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38443 by Nicola Sturgeon on 11 January 2011, what steps it is taking to link more detailed information on diagnosis and outcomes to the data collected by the Scottish Ambulance Service on overdose and poisoning related calls.","AnswerText":"We recognise that the data collected by the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) on overdose and poisoning related calls provides valuable information on drug overdoses and we are exploring how to make best use of this data to inform approaches to drug treatment and the prevention of drug-related deaths. The Scottish Government recognises the important role SAS staff play in responding to, and recording information on, overdose and poisoning related calls. SAS staff, along with the police, are often the first on the scene of an overdose and provide life-saving interventions to the individual in overdose and also information and advice to their family and friends. SAS is working with a number of groups across Scotland to attempt to link and share data, for example in relation to the Scottish National Naloxone Programme. The service is keen to share information and good practice to provide a more effective service for this patient group. In recognition of the unique perspective SAS can bring to discussions around how best to prevent drug-related deaths, they are a member of the National Forum on Drug-related Deaths. The role of this forum is to examine any trends and to disseminate good practice around how to reduce the number of drug-related deaths in Scotland. In particular, the role of this forum is to make recommendations to Scottish Government ministers, alcohol and drug partnerships and other agencies, as appropriate, on action and policy changes relating to the reduction of drug-related deaths. Furthermore, SAS was one of the primary data sources which provided information to the National Drug-related Death Database. This database, which reports for the first time on 25 January 2011, will provide in-depth information on the nature and circumstances of individuals who have died a drug-related death. This information will help to inform local drug treatment and support services of how they can tailor and target their interventions to help prevent drug-related deaths. When an individual is treated at accident and emergency following an overdose, whether they are brought in by the ambulance service or other means, it is important that they are signposted and, where appropriate, referred to local drug treatment and support services. Work is underway to investigate how best to support this process. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245272,"EventID":"S3W-38754","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38443 by Nicola Sturgeon on 11 January 2011, on how many occasions in relation to the calls listed the Scottish Ambulance Service (","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38443 by Nicola Sturgeon on 11 January 2011, on how many occasions in relation to the calls listed the Scottish Ambulance Service (a) recorded that Naloxone had been administered and (b) administered Naloxone on attending.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Ambulance Service have advised that Naloxone was administered to patients 44 times in 2008 and 44 times in 2009. The administration of Naloxone by ambulance crews is always recorded on the patient record. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245273,"EventID":"S3W-38755","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) change in percentage use of and (b) expenditure for agency and bank nursing and midwifery staff was in each NHS board in (i) 2006-07, (ii) 2007-08, (iii) 200","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) change in percentage use of and (b) expenditure for agency and bank nursing and midwifery staff was in each NHS board in (i) 2006-07, (ii) 2007-08, (iii) 2008-09 and (iv) 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The information requested is as follows: (a) Separate tables showing information about the change in percentage use of agency and bank nursing and midwifery staff have been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52305 and 52306 respectively). (b) Trend costs for agency nursing and midwifery staff in each NHS board are available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Agency%20Nurse%20200910.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. Trend costs for bank nursing and midwifery staff in each NHS board are available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Bank%20Nurses%20200910.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245274,"EventID":"S3W-38756","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated to each local authority area under the CashBack for Communities programme since the inception of the scheme, also broken down by year.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated to each local authority area under the CashBack for Communities programme since the inception of the scheme, also broken down by year.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold the amount allocated broken down by each local authority except for the funding given to Youthlink Scotland, which is broken down in this way for each year. The following table sets out the amounts administered by Youthlink Scotland since 2007 within each local authority. However, as from 1 April 2011 we will be collecting this information from all CashBack partners, which will allow allocations to be shown by each local authority. To date the Scottish Government has committed to invest £24 million in the CashBack for Communities programme which includes diversionary and participatory projects for young people across Scotland, and in a wide range of projects. So far over 300,000 young people participate in CashBack for Communities activities. Cashback for Communities Youth Work Fund, Summary of Awards by Local Authority in Each Funding Round at 17 January 2011 | LA NO | LA | Round 1 Awards Total | Round 2 Awards Total | Round 3 Awards Total | Round 4 Phase 1 Awards Total | LA Total Awards | | 1 | Aberdeen | £24,966.00 | £63,525.00 | £33,623.00 | £47,808.00 | £169,922.00 | | 2 | Aberdeenshire | £28,620.00 | £52,379.56 | £56,987.00 | £37,576.00 | £175,562.56 | | 3 | Angus | £7,200.00 | £35,800.00 | £22,501.00 | £8,731.00 | £74,232.00 | | 4 | Argyll and Bute | £40,000.00 | Nil | £21,474.00 | £19,880.00 | £81,354.00 | | 5 | Clackmannanshire | Nil | £40,000.00 | £9,721.00 | £19,904.00 | £69,625.00 | | 6 | Local Authority | Round 1 Allocation (2009-10) | Round 2 Allocation (2009-10) | Round 3 Allocation (2010-11) | Rounds 1 to 3 Total | | Aberdeen City | 78 units £1.95 million | 42 units £1.05 million | 31 units £0.93 million | 151 units £3.93 million | | Aberdeenshire | 35 units £875,000 | 74 units £1.85 million | 45 units £1.35 million | 154 units £4.075 million | | Angus | Unsuccessful application | 38 £950,000 | 43 units, £1.29 million | 81 units £2.24 million | | Argyll and Bute | Did not apply | Did not apply | Did not apply | N/A | | City of Edinburgh | 134 units £3.35 million | 50 units £1.25 million | 96 units, £2.88 million | 280 units, £7.48 million | | Clackmannan-shire | Did not apply | 24 units £600,000 | Did not apply | 24 units £600,000 | | Comhairle nan Eilean Siar | Did not apply | Did not apply | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Housing-Regeneration/HSfS/NewBuildLA. With regard to council houses planned by each local authority, the Affordable Housing Securing Planning Consent Survey collects data from planning authorities on planning applications that have been granted consent. Table 1 shows how many new council houses were granted consent in each financial year from 2005-06, the earliest date for which these data are available. As there is no comprehensive mechanism for monitoring planning applications, it is possible that some applications that should be recorded in the survey are not recorded at the time they are received. They may be recorded in subsequent years. Table 1: Units Consented For Local Authority Rent, by Planning Authority Area | | Units Consented for Local Authority Rent1,2,3 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | Total | | Aberdeen City | 33 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 33 | | Aberdeenshire | 0 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 23 | 31 | | Angus | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Argyll and Bute | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Cairngorms4 | - | I understand that Fife Fire and Rescue Service is now facing cuts in its funding which may have an impact on frontline delivery this year. Operational decisions are a matter for individual fire authorities. However, this situation clearly demonstrates why the Scottish Government is about to consult on options for structural reform of the Fire and Rescue Services. Only by doing so will we ensure that the frontline services that are of importance to the public in Fife, and throughout Scotland, are protected. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245278,"EventID":"S3W-38760","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidelines cover the release of information and documents by the (a) police, (b) Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and (c) courts to the press or public in ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidelines cover the release of information and documents by the (a) police, (b) Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and (c) courts to the press or public in connection with criminal prosecutions.","AnswerText":"The police, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and the courts are required to comply with the relevant legal requirements such as the provisions of the Contempt of Court Act 1981, the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002. The Lord Advocate has issued guidelines to police on releasing information to the media in relation to criminal investigations. These are publicly available on the COPFS website at: http://www.crownoffice.gov.uk/publications/1983/07/lag-police-media. Internal guidance is available to Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal staff to deal with routine enquiries. Internal guidance is available to Scottish Court Service (SCS) staff to assist them in handling enquiries received from either the press or public on accessing court records or on other aspects of criminal proceedings. Further advice is available from SCS senior staff or SCS communications where required. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245279,"EventID":"S3W-38761","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what documents were released by the police, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service or the court to the press or public in connection with the prosecution of Her M","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what documents were released by the police, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service or the court to the press or public in connection with the prosecution of Her Majesty’s Advocate v Thomas Sheridan and Gail Sheridan.","AnswerText":"The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service made the following documents available to the media for use in the event that Thomas Sheridan was found guilty. These were: i. Barbara Scott''s handwritten notes from 9 November 2004 meeting; ii. Typed draft minute of 9 November 2004 meeting; iii. Photograph of Thomas Sheridan and others at his wedding; iv. Photograph of diary entries for week 27 September 2002. v. Copy transcript of the McNeillage tape (released during the trial to assist the media in following the evidence). This material was led in evidence and was the subject of a request by the media. This request was considered and approved by Crown Counsel. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245280,"EventID":"S3W-38762","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether recordings of interviews under caution with Tommy and Gail Sheridan by police officers of Lothians and Borders Police were officially released to the BBC and, if ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether recordings of interviews under caution with Tommy and Gail Sheridan by police officers of Lothians and Borders Police were officially released to the BBC and, if not, what action has been taken regarding the use of this material in the BBC programme, The Rise and Lies of Tommy Sheridan.","AnswerText":"Recordings of interviews under caution with Tommy and Gail Sheridan were not released to the BBC by the police or the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. Both the police and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service must adhere to strict requirements around the release of information. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38760 on 24 January 2011. It is for Lothian and Borders Police and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service to consider whether these requirements have been met. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245281,"EventID":"S3W-38763","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it has issued to local authorities and other public bodies in relation to fair trade in procurement.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it has issued to local authorities and other public bodies in relation to fair trade in procurement.","AnswerText":"Guidance on fair trade and procurement was issued by the Scottish Government to local authorities and the wider public sector in October 2009 as part of the Scottish Sustainable Procurement Action Plan. The advice explains the scope for encouraging and supporting fair trade products in public procurement whilst still complying with procurement legislation. Support for fair trade is one of the key elements of the Scottish Government''s international development policy. As such, the Scottish Government provides core funding to the Scottish Fair Trade Forum to drive forward the campaign to make Scotland a fair trade nation and encourages the use of fair trade products, such as those covered by the Fairtrade scheme. Fairtrade or ethically traded products (including tea, coffee, sugar, juice and snacks) are available in all of the staff restaurants across the Scottish Government estate. In addition, Fairtrade tea, coffee and sugar are used as standard hospitality for meetings. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245282,"EventID":"S3W-38764","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures it is taking to support smallholder producers in Malawi through its procurement policies and international development funding.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures it is taking to support smallholder producers in Malawi through its procurement policies and international development funding.","AnswerText":"Under the Sustainable Economic Development strand of the Scotland Malawi Co-operation Agreement, the Scottish Government has provided funding to a number of organisations to support smallholder producers in Malawi. Details of these projects can be found on the Scottish Government website. Guidance on fair trade and procurement was issued by the Scottish Government to local authorities and the wider public sector in October 2009. The advice explains the scope for encouraging and supporting fair trade products in public procurement whilst still complying with procurement legislation. Through the Scottish Government''s own procurement policy we continue to work with our catering provider to offer a wide range of Fairtrade or ethically traded products (including tea, coffee, sugar, juice and snacks) in all of the staff restaurants across the Scottish Government estate. In addition, Fairtrade tea, coffee and sugar are used as standard hospitality for meetings. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245283,"EventID":"S3W-38765","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to promote Fairtrade Fortnight 2011 to public bodies.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to promote Fairtrade Fortnight 2011 to public bodies.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Fair Trade Forum (SFTF) receives core funding from the Scottish Government to drive forward this government''s commitment to become one of the world''s first Fair Trade Nations. During previous Fairtrade Fortnights, I and other ministerial colleagues have participated in a number of Fair Trade events in Scotland and I look forward to doing so again this year. The SFTF leads on wider activities for Fairtrade Fortnight and my officials are in regular contact with them to identify where the Scottish Government can add value to the promotion of Fairtrade Fortnight 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245284,"EventID":"S3W-38766","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-12T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it can do to support the Scottish Fair Trade Forum in its Countdown Campaign and whether it will encourage local authorities who have not made a commitment to fair t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it can do to support the Scottish Fair Trade Forum in its Countdown Campaign and whether it will encourage local authorities who have not made a commitment to fair trade to do so.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Fair Trade Forum (SFTF) receives core funding from the Scottish Government to drive forward this Government''s commitment to become one of the world''s first fair trade nations. My officials work closely with the SFTF and Scottish Government ministers have previously written to local authorities actively encouraging them to support the Fair Trade Nation campaign. I am very pleased that the majority of local authorities are now active in the Fair Trade Nation campaign and in consultation with the SFTF I will continue to actively encourage all sectors of Scottish society to engage with the Fair Trade Nation campaign. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245285,"EventID":"S3W-38767","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1876,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":43,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual saving for a commuter has been since the abolition of tolls on the Forth Road bridge.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual saving for a commuter has been since the abolition of tolls on the Forth Road bridge.","AnswerText":"On abolition in 2007, the tolls on the Forth Road Bridge (FRB) for cars and light goods vehicles were £1 per crossing. North bound only. This meant an annual cost of tolls of £230 per annum (based on a five-day working week over a 46-week working year, assuming six weeks holiday per annum). Frequent user discount vouchers were available on the FRB. If these were used then the reduced rate of £0.90 was applied and the annual cost would have been £207 per annum based on the same conditions above. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245286,"EventID":"S3W-38768","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3901,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":53,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual saving for a commuter has been since the abolition of tolls on the Tay Bridge.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual saving for a commuter has been since the abolition of tolls on the Tay Bridge.","AnswerText":"On abolition in 2007, the toll on the Tay Road Bridge for cars and light goods vehicles was £0.80 per crossing, southbound tolling only. This would have meant an annual cost of tolls of £184 per annum (based on a
five-day working week over a 46-week working year, assuming six weeks holiday per annum). ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245287,"EventID":"S3W-38769","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to address the key findings of the report by For Scotland’s Disabled Children, Setting the Scene.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to address the key findings of the report by For Scotland’s Disabled Children, Setting the Scene.","AnswerText":"For Scotland''s Disabled Children (FSDC) is a lead partner, along with Scottish Government and COSLA, in a national review of services for disabled children undertaken in 2010 and due to be published shortly. FSDC''s baseline survey, Setting the Scene, was a key source for this review and will remain central to its work with plans to update it on an ongoing basis. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245288,"EventID":"S3W-38770","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2678,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what legal basis private car park operators operating NHS car parking facilities issue fixed penalty notices.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what legal basis private car park operators operating NHS car parking facilities issue fixed penalty notices.","AnswerText":"This is a matter for NHS boards, who have responsibility for managing their car parking appropriately. It is understood that private car park operators who manage NHS car parking facilities on behalf of NHS boards do not issue fixed penalty notices, as that is not an option open to private land owners. It is also understood that there are civil remedies open to private landowners, including NHS boards, to control the use of their land, including car parking. Where an NHS board has a car parking management policy and the conditions of car park use are breached, the policy may provide for unauthorised parking notices to be issued and any follow up action pursued as a civil matter. The car parking conditions are made available on notices at the relevant car parks and in the NHS board''s car parking management policy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245289,"EventID":"S3W-38771","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2678,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the contract for the management of car parking at NHS hospitals is between the NHS-appointed car park operator and the (a) driver or (b) owner of the vehicle.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the contract for the management of car parking at NHS hospitals is between the NHS-appointed car park operator and the (a) driver or (b) owner of the vehicle.","AnswerText":"These contracts are a matter for NHS boards. However, it is understood that by parking within an NHSScotland operated car park, the driver of the vehicle is accepting the conditions governing use of that car park and made available on notices in the car parks and the NHS board''s car parking management policy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245290,"EventID":"S3W-38772","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the forthcoming Council Tax (Discounts) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2011 can make it possible for students, including those who take non-traditional routes to univ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the forthcoming Council Tax (Discounts) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2011 can make it possible for students, including those who take non-traditional routes to university, to benefit equally from council tax discounts and, if so, whether it plans to use these powers to do so.","AnswerText":"All students who meet the relevant qualifying criteria will be eligible for an exemption from council tax charges and thus will benefit equally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245291,"EventID":"S3W-38773","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on students taking a non-traditional route toward a degree qualification and who move from one institution to another over a summer break benefiting ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on students taking a non-traditional route toward a degree qualification and who move from one institution to another over a summer break benefiting from the same council tax discounts during the summer as other students.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is supportive of students accessing education through all routes. Students leaving one institution before enrolling at another to commence further studies are not deemed to be students during that period. Consequently, they may be liable to council tax. However, where they are liable, they may be eligible for council tax benefit of up to 100% to help pay their council tax bill. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245292,"EventID":"S3W-38774","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been targeted at sports clubs and governing bodies through the Sports Facilities Fund and what facilities have been improved as a result.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been targeted at sports clubs and governing bodies through the Sports Facilities Fund and what facilities have been improved as a result.","AnswerText":"Sportscotland''s Sports Facilities Fund is an application based funding programme designed to support the development, refurbishment and improvement of the stock of Scotland''s sports facilities. This information is not held centrally by the Scottish Government as this fund is managed by sportscotland. I have therefore asked the Chief Executive of sportscotland to write to the member providing the detailed operational information requested. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245293,"EventID":"S3W-38775","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many meetings of the Small Business Consultative Group took place in (a) 2005, (b) 2006, (c) 2007, (d) 2008, (e) 2009 and (f) 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many meetings of the Small Business Consultative Group took place in (a) 2005, (b) 2006, (c) 2007, (d) 2008, (e) 2009 and (f) 2010.","AnswerText":"Details of meetings of the Small Business Consultative Group between 2005 and 2010 are listed in the following table: | Year | Number | Dates | | 2005 | 2 | 12 April; 27 September | | 2006 | 3 | 30 January; 22 May; 26 September | | 2007 | 2 | 16 January; 2 October | | 2008 | 1 | 12 May | | 2009 | 1 | 11 May | | 2010 | 1 | 9 June | On 6 January 2009, the business membership of the group proposed moving to annual meetings. The Scottish Government accepted that proposal recognising that the National Economic Forum, the Business in Parliament conference and a range of other meetings and events also provide substantive opportunities to work together to optimise support for small businesses. During the period May 2007 to January 2010 in addition to many one to one meetings with small businesses we also conducted many sessions with small business addressing specific issues such as regulation, procurement and recruitment of skilled people. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245294,"EventID":"S3W-38776","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last conducted the Annual Survey of Small Businesses’ Opinions.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last conducted the Annual Survey of Small Businesses’ Opinions.","AnswerText":"The latest Annual Survey of Small Businesses'' Opinions (2007-08) was conducted between November 2007 and February 2008. In addition that frequent mind-mapping sessions held between 2007 and 2011 have kept ministers informed of small business opinion and also insured that small business have become even more closely connected with local government, public agencies, regulators, government and each other. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245295,"EventID":"S3W-38777","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers to be the potential adverse impacts and benefits for biodiversity of the growth of the marine renewables industry.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers to be the potential adverse impacts and benefits for biodiversity of the growth of the marine renewables industry.","AnswerText":"Marine renewables and offshore wind will make a significant contribution to our renewable energy targets and contribute to our wider environmental objectives, particularly in relation to climate change. The climate change benefits associated with marine renewables and offshore wind will benefit marine biodiversity as well as society and the environment more generally. It will provide Scotland with a better mix of sources of power by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The development of a marine renewables and offshore wind industry will also contribute to economic growth, including significant potential for new sources of employment in coastal communities. The potential impacts for biodiversity are dependent on the design of wave, tidal and offshore wind projects, construction and operating plans, location of the proposed development and biodiversity features of interest. The potential impacts include habitat loss, disturbance of marine species, collision risk with marine species and barrier effects to migration of marine species. Developments also have the potential to provide artificial reefs, through the placement of manmade structures on the seabed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245296,"EventID":"S3W-38778","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to ensure that the planned growth of the marine renewables industry furthers the conservation of biodiversity.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to ensure that the planned growth of the marine renewables industry furthers the conservation of biodiversity.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is taking a planned approach to the development of wave, tidal and offshore wind energy sectors in a sustainable manner. The Scottish Government undertook a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to examine the wider environmental effects of wave and tidal power which was published on 31 March 2007. Marine Scotland proposes to undertake an SEA maintenance exercise to update the 2007 SEA. This will incorporate Habitats Regulations Appraisal to assess potential impacts on Special Areas of Conservation, and Special Protection Areas and to ensure that the requirements of the Habitats Directive are met. Proposed developments will also be subject to environmental impact assessment including Habitats Regulations Appraisal at the project level. The marine licensing process will also consider the potential for impacts on European protected species. The Scottish Government is also supporting a research programme on the environmental impacts of marine renewables to increase knowledge of the likelihood of potential impacts, provide a better baseline for environmental assessments and research mitigation strategies. Surveys have also been undertaken in the Pentland Firth to improve knowledge of the distribution of marine biodiversity features and inform licensing decisions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245297,"EventID":"S3W-38779","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to ensure that the planned growth of marine renewables does not adversely affect European protected species or special areas of conservation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to ensure that the planned growth of marine renewables does not adversely affect European protected species or special areas of conservation.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38778 on 26 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245298,"EventID":"S3W-38780","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment will be made of the environmental effects of projects before they are considered eligible for funding from the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment will be made of the environmental effects of projects before they are considered eligible for funding from the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund.","AnswerText":"Applications for funding through the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund will be considered by Scottish Enterprise (SE) and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). SE and HIE both require that projects obtain the necessary planning consents prior to the provision of funding. This will include environmental impact assessment of projects, where it is required. A Strategic Environmental Assessment of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan has been undertaken in accordance with the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005. The results may be used by the site owners when progressing their site-specific proposals. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245299,"EventID":"S3W-38781","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund will be made available to assist developers in avoiding damage to the natural environment.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund will be made available to assist developers in avoiding damage to the natural environment.","AnswerText":"The National Renewables Infrastructure Fund is being administered by Scottish Enterprise (SE) and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). Where funding is provided by SE or HIE to support infrastructure projects these will have been subject to the relevant consenting processes to ensure environmental impacts are addressed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245300,"EventID":"S3W-38782","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers the (a) status and (b) role of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan will be in relation to (i) decisions on planning applications, (ii) the prepa","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers the (a) status and (b) role of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan will be in relation to (i) decisions on planning applications, (ii) the preparation of development plans, (iii) decisions on applications under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 and (iv) marine planning.","AnswerText":"The National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (N-RIP) Stage 1 and 2 reports identify Scotland''s key locations that can support the development of a globally competitive offshore renewables industry. The reports set out the indicative infrastructure requirements and associated economic returns that could be generated. All projects associated with N-RIP will be required to follow planning and/or consenting procedures, including consents under the Harbours Act and/or the Town and Country Planning Act, and (in future) dredging licences under the Marine (Scotland) Act where dredging may be proposed. In respect of planning, the National Marine Plan will take cognisance of the N-RIP. Scottish Government officials will also be working closely with planning authorities to ensure that N-RIP objectives are taken into account in the preparation of main issues reports and development plans. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245301,"EventID":"S3W-38783","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what correspondence it has had, or intends to have, with the European Commission regarding the potential for the planned growth of marine renewables to affect special are","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what correspondence it has had, or intends to have, with the European Commission regarding the potential for the planned growth of marine renewables to affect special areas of conservation and European protected species.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government regularly contributes to discussions with the European Commission, UK Government and EU member states on marine renewables and offshore wind energy issues. It contributed to the development of recently published EU Guidance on Wind Energy Developments and Natura 2000 and is represented on several UK groups including the UK Renewable Energy Deployment Environmental Issue Board. There has been no specific correspondence so far with the European Commission, UK Government and EU member states regarding the potential for marine renewable projects to affect special areas of conservation and European protected species. However, ongoing work on Habitats Regulation Appraisals and other environmental assessments provide the basis for consideration of these issues and discussions with relevant countries and the European Commission where necessary. The EU Guidance on Wind Energy Developments and Natura 2000 can be found via the following link http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/guidance_en.htm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245302,"EventID":"S3W-38784","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what correspondence it has had, or intends to have, with (a) the UK Government and (b) other EU member states regarding the potential for the planned growth of marine ren","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what correspondence it has had, or intends to have, with (a) the UK Government and (b) other EU member states regarding the potential for the planned growth of marine renewables to affect special areas of conservation and European protected species in the (i) UK territorial or marine area outside Scotland and (b) territory or marine area of other member states.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38778 on 26 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245303,"EventID":"S3W-38785","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much installed offshore wind energy generating capacity it considers could be developed by (a) 2020, (b) 2030 and (c) in the longer term without adversely affecting t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much installed offshore wind energy generating capacity it considers could be developed by (a) 2020, (b) 2030 and (c) in the longer term without adversely affecting the marine environment.","AnswerText":"A valuation of the UK''s offshore renewable resource, published in May 2010, estimated that Scotland has 169 Gigawatts (GW) of practical offshore wind resource. The Scottish Government also published a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Draft Plan for Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish territorial waters for public consultation in May 2010. The SEA identified the potential for a likely significant effect on sites designated for their nature conservation interest at a European level. Accordingly, the Scottish Government is currently undertaking a Habitats Regulations Appraisal of the Draft Plan which will be complete by the end of January and will inform the preparation of the Final Plan for Offshore Wind. The Draft Plan proposed 10 short term options for development up to 2020 with a potential generation capacity of 6.5GW. The 10 short-term options have now been reduced to nine, due to irresolvable issues with radar impacts. The nine short-term options have a potential generation capacity of 5.8GW. The Draft Plan also proposed 25 areas of search, titled medium term options, for possible development beyond 2030. No generating capacity has been set for these areas of search and any possible areas in the longer term. In addition, we are aware that the Crown Estate has agreed leases for two Round 3 sites in the Moray Firth and the Firth of Forth, beyond the Scottish Territorial Water limit of 12 nautical miles. These sites have a potential to generate a combined capacity of 4.8GW by 2020. The Crown Estate is currently undertaking a Habitats Regulations Appraisal of the Round 3 sites. All offshore renewable energy projects are and will be subject to assessment under the relevant legislation to ensure that there is no adverse effect on European sites and species. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245304,"EventID":"S3W-38786","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with (a) Scottish Enterprise and (b) Highlands and Islands Enterprise regarding the need for the (i) environmental assessment of plans, progra","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with (a) Scottish Enterprise and (b) Highlands and Islands Enterprise regarding the need for the (i) environmental assessment of plans, programmes and strategies and (ii) habitats regulations assessment of plans.","AnswerText":"In 2010, discussions were held between the Scottish Government''s SEA Gateway and Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise regarding the need for environmental assessment of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (N-RIP). A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) was undertaken of the short-term and medium-term sites (20 in total) included in the N-RIP. The environmental report and the Stage 2 N-RIP report were published for public consultation in September 2010, for a period of 10 weeks. A Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) of the N-RIP is currently underway and is due to report in January 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245305,"EventID":"S3W-38787","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Projects): Regional Locational Guidance published by Mari","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Projects): Regional Locational Guidance published by Marine Scotland Science will be a material consideration in the determination of applications for relevant energy development made under the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does consider that the document referred to will be a material consideration in the determination of applications for relevant energy development made under the Electricity Act 1989. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245306,"EventID":"S3W-38788","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Projects): Regional Locational Guidance publ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Projects): Regional Locational Guidance published by Marine Scotland Science to be a qualifying plan or programme in terms of section 5 of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"The purpose of this report is to collate baseline information relevant to the development process, to assist developers interested in competing for the Saltire Prize to identify and develop projects rapidly. As its primary purpose is the provision of baseline information, it is not considered to be a qualifying plan or programme under the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005. The Scottish Government is currently undertaking an SEA Maintenance exercise in support of the preparation of the Marine Renewables Plan. The information contained in the report will be used in support of this maintenance exercise. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245307,"EventID":"S3W-38789","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that a habitats regulations assessment of the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Pr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that a habitats regulations assessment of the Scottish Marine and Freshwater Science Volume 1 No 18: Further Scottish Leasing Round (Saltire Prize Projects): Regional Locational Guidance published by Marine Scotland Science is required and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"The purpose of this report is to collate baseline information relevant to the development process, to assist developers interested in competing for the Saltire Prize to identify and develop projects rapidly. As its primary purpose is the provision of baseline information, it is not considered to be a qualifying plan or project under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, as amended for Scotland, which implement the EC Habitats Directive. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245308,"EventID":"S3W-38790","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many letters have been sent by its ministers highlighting its policies to interested parties in each year since 2007, broken down by (a) minister, (b) number of lette","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many letters have been sent by its ministers highlighting its policies to interested parties in each year since 2007, broken down by (a) minister, (b) number of letters and (c) cost.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245309,"EventID":"S3W-38791","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many council houses were completed in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many council houses were completed in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010.","AnswerText":"There were 195 council houses completed in 2008 and 452 in 2009. The figure for 2010 will be published on 23 February 2011. This information is published on the Housing Statistics for Scotland pages of the Scottish Government''s website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Housing-Regeneration/HSfS/NewBuildLA. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245310,"EventID":"S3W-38792","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many housing association houses were completed in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many housing association houses were completed in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010.","AnswerText":"There were 5,797 housing association houses completed in 2008 and 8,654 were completed in 2009. The figure for 2010 will be published on 23 February 2011. These figures include all Housing Association completions carried out through the Affordable Housing Investment Programme (AHIP) including new house building, off the shelf purchases and rehabilitations. The figures are published on the Housing Statistics for Scotland web pages of the Scottish Government''s website. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Housing-Regeneration/HSfS/NB-AHIP. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245311,"EventID":"S3W-38793","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the minutes of the December 2010 Curriculum for Excellence Management Board will be published.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the minutes of the December 2010 Curriculum for Excellence Management Board will be published.","AnswerText":"The minutes of Curriculum for Excellence Management Board meetings are published when they are agreed by the board. The minutes of the December 2010 meeting will be considered at the board''s next meeting which is scheduled for 10 February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245312,"EventID":"S3W-38794","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision has been reached on how many exams pupils will be able to sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision has been reached on how many exams pupils will be able to sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence.","AnswerText":"As the member is aware, there are no national prescriptions for the number of subjects pupils should be examined for in S4. The precise number and range of qualifications on offer, as well as when they are taken, will be a decision for schools to take in consultation with learners and parents. Schools will take into consideration how they can provide a variety of options to suit the needs of the learner rather than treating all S4 pupils as a uniform cohort. Several models developed by schools to illustrate emerging thinking on how the senior phase (S4-S6) could be delivered are available on the Curriculum for Excellence website, including school models which illustrate how five to eight subjects can be taken. The website address is www.ltscotland.org.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245313,"EventID":"S3W-38795","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision has been reached on how many exams most pupils will be expected to sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision has been reached on how many exams most pupils will be expected to sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38794 on 25 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245314,"EventID":"S3W-38796","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether guidance will be published on how many exams pupils will sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence and, if so, when.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether guidance will be published on how many exams pupils will sit in S4 under the Curriculum for Excellence and, if so, when.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38794 on 25 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. The general approach to curriculum structures is provided in the following publications: Building the Curriculum 3: a framework for learning and teaching (published in 2008): www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2008/06/06104407/0. Curriculum for Excellence senior phase: management board discussion paper (published in 2009): www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/09/23105948/6. Practitioner guidance/Q&A (published in 2010): www.ltscotland.org.uk/Images/PractitionergroupQA_tcm4-637977.pdf. Illustrations of how the senior phase (S4-S6) could be delivered have been developed by schools and are available on the Learning and Teaching Scotland website at: www.ltscotland.org.uk/sharingpractice/s/curriculummodels/introduction.asp?strReferringChannel=buildingyourcurriculum&strReferringPageID=tcm:4-623319-64. This includes a model put forward by Charleston Academy which illustrates how seven or eight subjects can be studied. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245315,"EventID":"S3W-38797","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1756,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":7,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether the same convention rights of individuals and international obligations attach","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether the same convention rights of individuals and international obligations attaching to information provided by foreign authorities would have to be taken into account whether the order were amended by primary legislation or by statutory instrument.","AnswerText":"Yes, the same convention rights of individuals and international obligations would apply. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245316,"EventID":"S3W-38798","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1756,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":7,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether it can confirm that considerations in relation to data protection legislation ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether it can confirm that considerations in relation to data protection legislation are not relevant in this case given that section 194K(4) of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 ensures that, where Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission disclosure is permitted by means of a statutory order, “the disclosure of the information is not prevented by any obligation of secrecy or other limitation on disclosure (including any such obligation or limitation imposed by, under or by virtue of any enactment) arising otherwise than under that section.”","AnswerText":"No, considerations in relation to data protection legislation are relevant in this case. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245317,"EventID":"S3W-38799","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1756,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":7,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether it intends to bring forward primary legislation and, if so, whether it will sp","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38294 by Kenny MacAskill on 11 January 2011, whether it intends to bring forward primary legislation and, if so, whether it will specify the reasons for so doing rather than amending the order by means of a new statutory instrument.","AnswerText":"Primary legislation is needed for full flexibility to ensure that an appropriate legislative framework is put in place. The proposed legislation will facilitate, as far as possible, the release of a statement of reasons by the commission in circumstances where an appeal has been abandoned. In doing so, it will also maintain appropriate provision for such matters as data protection, the convention rights of individuals and international obligations attaching to information provided by foreign authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245318,"EventID":"S3W-38800","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3743,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-13T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what financial estimates it has made of the impact of the VAT increase on Scotland’s police and fire services, broken down by board or authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what financial estimates it has made of the impact of the VAT increase on Scotland’s police and fire services, broken down by board or authority.","AnswerText":"Police and fire services can recover VAT on all expenditure and therefore no financial estimates have required to be made. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245319,"EventID":"S3W-38801","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) inspection is undertaken and (b) regulations there are on the application of standards for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with regard to (i) acce","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) inspection is undertaken and (b) regulations there are on the application of standards for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with regard to (i) accessibility to and (ii) the regular programming of pulmonary rehabilitation.","AnswerText":"The NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) clinical standards for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) apply to all NHS boards in Scotland with responsibility for delivering COPD services. We expect NHS boards'' Respiratory Managed Clinical Networks (MCNs) to use the standards, and the associated evaluation tool, to monitor and assess performance against the standards. Promotion of pulmonary rehabilitation services is widely recognised as the most significant aspect of the standards, and is therefore one of the main focuses of the NHS QIS implementation programme. To assist boards with this, NHS QIS has arranged a national event on 22 February 2011 at which it will demonstrate the web-based pulmonary rehabilitation electronic resource it has been developing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245320,"EventID":"S3W-38802","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to collect Scottish Patients At Risk of Readmission and Admission data in relation to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to collect Scottish Patients At Risk of Readmission and Admission data in relation to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.","AnswerText":"Information on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is already included as one of 16 long term conditions in the current Scottish Patients At Risk of Readmission and Admission (SPARRA) output. Regular use of SPARRA data informs multi-disciplinary, multi-agency team discussions and helps identify people who could benefit from a care management approach, or whose care plan might require re-assessment. SPARRA data are also being used to help identify appropriate interventions for people living with COPD, for example by referring them for pulmonary rehabilitation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245321,"EventID":"S3W-38803","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it takes to ensure that older people in care homes are not given medication covertly.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it takes to ensure that older people in care homes are not given medication covertly.","AnswerText":"Under the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000, it is incumbent on the medical practitioner primarily responsible for the medical treatment of an adult to complete a section 47 certificate once they have established that the adult is incapable in relation to a decision about the medical treatment in question. Part 5 of the act, and certification under section 47, should not be used as justification for the administration of unwanted, unnecessary or potentially harmful medication whether such medication is given covertly or otherwise. Subsection 47(7) of the act prohibits the use of force or detention, unless it is immediately necessary in the circumstances. Covert medication is permissible in certain, but limited, circumstances: for example, if it is required to safeguard the health of an adult who is unable to consent to the treatment in question and where other alternatives have been explored and none are practicable. A revised code of practice on part 5 of the act was published by the Scottish Government in October 2010 and can be found on its website at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/10/20153801/0. The Mental Welfare Commission has published guidance on this issue: Consent to Treatment and Covert Medication - a legal and practical guide are both available on the Mental Welfare Commission website at http://www.mwcscot.org.uk/mwc_home/home.asp. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245322,"EventID":"S3W-38804","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it takes to ensure that pharmacists visit care homes for older people to improve knowledge and understanding of medication management.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it takes to ensure that pharmacists visit care homes for older people to improve knowledge and understanding of medication management.","AnswerText":"Care home operators are responsible, as part of the package of care provided to residents, for medication supervision and support. It is the responsibility of each patient''s GP to ensure that medicines prescribed for each patient are appropriate. There is a provision for NHS boards to contract with community pharmacies to provide advisory services to residential homes. Each board negotiates local payments for these services. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245323,"EventID":"S3W-38805","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the construction of the replacement prison at Low Moss is due for completion.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the construction of the replacement prison at Low Moss is due for completion.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: Construction of HMP Low Moss is due to be completed in the autumn of 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245324,"EventID":"S3W-38806","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the first prisoners to arrive at the replacement prison at Low Moss.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the first prisoners to arrive at the replacement prison at Low Moss.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The first intake of prisoners is expected to be in the spring of 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245325,"EventID":"S3W-38807","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff will be employed at the replacement prison at Low Moss.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff will be employed at the replacement prison at Low Moss.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: Staff numbers have yet to be finalised but are expected to be in the region of 350. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245326,"EventID":"S3W-38808","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to move the specialist unit for sex offenders at HMP Peterhead to the replacement prison at Low Moss.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to move the specialist unit for sex offenders at HMP Peterhead to the replacement prison at Low Moss.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: Convicted sex offenders are currently held in a number of establishments across the SPS estate; including Peterhead, Polmont, Dumfries, Edinburgh, Barlinnie and Glenochil. There are no plans to move sex offenders held at HMP Peterhead to HMP Low Moss when it opens in 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245327,"EventID":"S3W-38809","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many companies are on the shortlist for the new prisoner escort contract; what companies, and how many originally expressed interest in it.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many companies are on the shortlist for the new prisoner escort contract; what companies, and how many originally expressed interest in it.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is currently conducting a procurement process for the renewal of the current Prisoner Escort and Court Custody service contract which is due to expire in January 2012. The procurement timetable provides an opportunity for the successful contractor to make appropriate preparations in advance of assuming responsibility for this service. Four bidders submitted pre-qualification questionnaires and three were invited to submit tenders. SPS has not announced the identity of the bidders in order to maintain a competitive procurement process. This information could be made available following the completion of the procurement process. SPS expect to make an announcement regarding the successful supplier by early spring 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245328,"EventID":"S3W-38810","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects to announce what company has been successful in the bid for the new prisoner escort contract.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects to announce what company has been successful in the bid for the new prisoner escort contract.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38809 on 24 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245329,"EventID":"S3W-38811","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the prisoner escort contract is currently being tendered, in light of the current contract not expiring until 2012.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the prisoner escort contract is currently being tendered, in light of the current contract not expiring until 2012.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The current Prisoner Escort and Court Custody Service contract is due to expire in January 2012. The procurement timetable is designed to ensure that the tendering process is completed in good time and provides an opportunity for the successful contractor to make appropriate preparations in advance of assuming responsibility for this service. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245330,"EventID":"S3W-38812","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the views expressed in the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Advice Paper (11-01): The Teaching of History in Scottish Schools that there should be a r","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the views expressed in the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Advice Paper (11-01): The Teaching of History in Scottish Schools that there should be a review of the teaching and learning resources for history in schools.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government rejects that view. Learners in Scotland have benefitted from a wide range of high-quality resources to support the learning and teaching of history which have been developed and approved in consultation with the history profession. The History in Curriculum for Excellence Group, established in 2008, informed the development of the excellent Scotland''s History online resource launched in October 2009 and resources on the new Higher History have been welcomed. Support from the Heritage Education Forum, Scran, Glow and other developments in recent years have made available resources and exciting learning experiences in and out of school across Scotland. Resources are kept under constant review and the History Excellence Group is developing further guidance for teachers and schools to provide learners with a more coherent experience of history from early years to senior phase as part of Curriculum for Excellence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245331,"EventID":"S3W-38813","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the decrease in the number of principal teachers of history in state-funded secondary schools.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the decrease in the number of principal teachers of history in state-funded secondary schools.","AnswerText":"The organisation of schools is a matter for local authorities and head teachers. As more schools organise on a faculty basis, there has been a decrease in the number of principal teachers of history. This is not unique to history and advice from HM Inspectorate of Education suggests that principal teachers are seeking appropriate advice and collaborating with colleagues to plan courses that are coherent, relevant and engaging, with an appropriate place for history in the curriculum. In Scottish education we encourage leadership at all levels. There may not be a principal teacher in history but that does not mean that there is nobody leading the subject. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245332,"EventID":"S3W-38814","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on concerns expressed in the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Advice Paper (11-01): The Teaching of History in Scottish Schools that there is an insuffic","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on concerns expressed in the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Advice Paper (11-01): The Teaching of History in Scottish Schools that there is an insufficient balance of subject knowledge taught in some schools.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government rejects that conclusion. Curriculum for Excellence aims to raise standards for all young people through a more flexible, coherent and enriched curriculum. It is for schools and local authorities to ensure they get the right balance of subject knowledge within broad curricular guidance and drawing on available resources. Practitioners are empowered to make teaching of history relevant and engaging drawing on local, national and international contexts while maintaining a focus on changes that have shaped Scotland. The curriculum encourages deeper learning which may involve a smaller number of topics and the History Excellence Group is working to produce further guidance for teachers and schools to provide learners with a coherent experience of history from early years to senior phase. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245333,"EventID":"S3W-38815","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown of where Scottish Rugby Union: Cashback for Communities funding is spent, broken down by local authority area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown of where Scottish Rugby Union: Cashback for Communities funding is spent, broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"Details are as follows: Distribution of Cashback Funding by Local Authority | | 2008-08 £ | 2009-10 £ | 2010-11 (planned) £ | | Costs for management, monitoring/evaluation, specialist staff training; regional project equipment, resources, travel support1 | 170,600 | 180,800 | 192,170 | | Investments into expanded development officer infrastructure:2 | | | | | Aberdeen City | 5,800 | 2,000 | 3,000 | | Aberdeenshire | 20,000 | 13,000 | 15,000 | | Angus | 5,000 | 5,000 | 7,500 | | Argyll and Bute | 2,500 | 2,500 | 3,500 | | Clackmannanshire | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 2,000 | 9,000 | 9,500 | | Dundee City | 20,000 | 15,000 | 12,500 | | East Ayrshire | - | 5,000 | 4,000 ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245334,"EventID":"S3W-38816","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much financial assistance North Lanarkshire has received from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme, broken down by (a) organisation and (b) contribu","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much financial assistance North Lanarkshire has received from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme, broken down by (a) organisation and (b) contribution.","AnswerText":"Through the CashBack for Communities programme, the Scottish Government has invested £45,000 over three years for the three full-time rugby development officer posts, which is invested through partnerships with North Lanarkshire Council and North Lanarkshire Leisure Trust. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245335,"EventID":"S3W-38817","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers the Coatbridge and Chryston constituency to have benefited from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers the Coatbridge and Chryston constituency to have benefited from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government believes that Coatbridge and Chryston constituency has benefited significantly from the Scottish Rugby CashBack for Communities programme. This is demonstrated by: Primary School Programme The following schools in Coatbridge and Chryston have received a six week block in tag rugby, this was then followed up by a tag rugby festival. All work in the primary schools is focused towards expanding the mini rugby section at Waysiders Drumpellier RFC, the local rugby club: St Barbara''s, Auchinloch, Glenmanor, Langloan, Stepps and Chryston, Glenboig, Corpus Christi, Our Ladys and St Josephs, St Bartholomew''s, Townhead, Langloan, Greenhill, Old Monkland and Kirkshaws. The third tag rugby block of the school year has just started. The schools involved in this block are: St Augustine''s, Shawhead, Bargeddie, St Marys P6, St Marys P7, Sikeside, St Stephens, St Patricks, St Timothys and St Kevins. After School The Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) have recently started a pilot primary after school club for all pupils in Coatbridge, to be used as a stepping stone between school and club rugby. Secondary School Programme The SRU currently have rugby champions in all seven of the secondary schools in the area, reflecting after school rugby programmes in all seven high schools. Running in conjunction with the Monklands rugby initiative the secondary schools provide one night after school training per week for the pupils of their school. All schools will have a minimum of 10 weeks after school rugby over the year, while for those schools with indoor facilities, this will extend have over 20 weeks. Street Rugby In Coatbridge there have been four Street Rugby sessions this year. Youth Coaching Course In October and November 2010 in Airdrie, the SRU put two classes of CSLA students through the rugby ready course, 20 pupils of which be put through the Youth Coaching Course in February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245336,"EventID":"S3W-38818","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme has been distributed to schemes in the Coatbridge and Chryston constituency, broken down by o","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities programme has been distributed to schemes in the Coatbridge and Chryston constituency, broken down by organisation, in each year since the programme started.","AnswerText":"Funding by the Scottish Government through the CashBack for Communities programme for rugby is provided solely to the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU). I understand that the Coatbridge and Chryston constituency benefits from this funding through the SRU working in partnership with North Lanarkshire Leisure and North Lanarkshire Council, to employ professional staff to deliver jointly agreed and managed programmes that enable more young people to play rugby in schools, clubs and communities, leading to longer term rugby participation with longer term community benefit. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245337,"EventID":"S3W-38819","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that all communities benefit equally from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities funding and, if so, what policies it has to ensure this.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that all communities benefit equally from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities funding and, if so, what policies it has to ensure this.","AnswerText":"Scottish Rugby is required by the terms of its agreement with the Scottish Government''s CashBack for Communities programme to deliver free rugby playing and coaching opportunities in each local authority area in Scotland, and to meet, ideally exceed, national delivery targets, ensuring that rugby is delivered in areas of both urban and rural deprivation. In order to achieve this, the SRU has agreed to expand its successful community development model (established in 2006) which sees jointly funded development officers working to build strong school and community programmes, leading to more young people into strong community focussed rugby clubs. The Scottish Government is satisfied that communities across Scotland benefit equally from its CashBack funding to the SRU, based upon the quarterly and annual reports submitted by the SRU, and frequent meetings it has with the SRU to monitor progress of it delivering its agreed programme. However, the Scottish Government recognises that the provision in each community is also dependent on factors such as the level of existing provision in school and local authority sport/rugby programmes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245338,"EventID":"S3W-38820","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it audits the distribution of the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities funding among those organisations responsible for awarding funds.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it audits the distribution of the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities funding among those organisations responsible for awarding funds.","AnswerText":"Scottish Rugby does not award grants to external groups so such an audit process is not required. However, Scottish Rugby monitors and audits all of its partnerships involving the investment of CashBack for Communities monies to ensure agreed programmes are being delivered. On a quarterly and annual basis the performance of these posts and partnerships are measured against key performance indicators/targets, and assessment made of their success and whether further investment is warranted. On a quarterly and yearly basis the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) provide the Scottish Government with a progress report on all CashBack activity strands focussing on delivery, short and long-term beneficiaries, with supporting evidence. SRU also provide the Scottish Government with quarterly financial statements showing how expenditure compares with the profile agreed within the grant and any deviation from the plan must be agreed with the Scottish Government and any unexpended monies returned. Payments are only released to the SRU once Scottish Government Justice officials who manage the CashBack for Communities programme are satisfied at the use and proper management which the SRU are making of these funds. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245339,"EventID":"S3W-38821","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1769,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":2,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown of the areas that have received funding from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities Street Rugby Programme, broken down by (a) l","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown of the areas that have received funding from the Scottish Rugby: Cashback for Communities Street Rugby Programme, broken down by (a) local authority area and (b) parliamentary constituency, in each year since the programme started.","AnswerText":"Information is not held on the delivery of street rugby. Street rugby forms part of the overall programme delivered as part of the development officers'' remit, to ensure that those young people who engage with Street rugby can be supported by the SRU''s Development Officer into mainstream school and club programmes. The following table is a breakdown of all delivery since the start of our CashBack funding. Distribution of CashBack Funding By Local Authority | | 2008-09 £ | 2009-10 £ | 2010-11 (planned) £ | | Costs for management, monitoring/evaluation, specialist staff training; regional project equipment, resources, travel support1 | 170,600 | 180,800 | 192,170 | | Investments into expanded development officer Infrastructure:2 | | | | | Aberdeen City | 5,800 | 2,000 | 3,000 | | Aberdeenshire | 20,000 | 13,000 | 15,000 | | Angus | 5,000 | 5,000 | 7,500 | | Argyll and Bute | 2,500 | 2,500 | 3,500 | | Clackmannanshire | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 2,000 | 9,000 | 9,500 | | Dundee City | 20,000 | 15,000 | 12,500 | | East Ayrshire | - | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245341,"EventID":"S3W-38823","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1814,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support it provides to inventors in relation to marketing their inventions.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support it provides to inventors in relation to marketing their inventions.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government recognises the importance of innovation as a key driver of long-term sustainable economic growth. Our focus is on creating a flexible, supportive business environment and we look to our enterprise agencies to deliver support for Scottish businesses and inventors, including help in the marketing of new inventions. The principle support for individual inventors is delivered through the Innovators Counselling and Advisory Service for Scotland, funded by the Scottish Government. This free confidential service provides specialist advice to inventors and small companies on how to develop and protect their inventions. This includes identifying markets, routes to market and introductions to marketing and design experts and potential buyers. This service currently helps over 1,000 inventors a year and over the last two years helped inventors develop over 215 products. Our enterprise agencies and business gateway provide a wide range of support to companies for the development of competitive products and services. For example, through Scottish Enterprise''s Winning Through Innovation seminars and workshops, innovators receive guidance on developing and launching new products and services. These workshops cover the complete process of developing a product from the initial research stage through to marketing and sales. \r\n ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245342,"EventID":"S3W-38824","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34240 by Fergus Ewing on 7 June 2010, how many racist incidents were recorded in the Grampian Police force area in 2009-10, broken ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34240 by Fergus Ewing on 7 June 2010, how many racist incidents were recorded in the Grampian Police force area in 2009-10, broken down by ethnic origin of the victim.","AnswerText":"The statistical bulletin Racist Incidents Recorded by the Police in Scotland, 2009-10 is scheduled for publication on 29 March 2011. Under the Pre-release Access to Official Statistics (Scotland) Order 2008, the requested data will not be available until 9.30 am on the day of publication. The dates of all Scottish Government Official and National Statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245343,"EventID":"S3W-38825","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33724 by Stewart Stevenson on 27 May 2010, what progress has been made on the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and when it anticip","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33724 by Stewart Stevenson on 27 May 2010, what progress has been made on the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and when it anticipates that the road will be fully operational.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3O-11578 on 7 October 2010. The answer to the oral parliamentary question is available on the Parliament''s website, the official report can be viewed at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/officialReports/meetingsParliament/or-10/sor1007-02.htm#Col29457. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245344,"EventID":"S3W-38826","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offences of wasting police time were committed in the Grampian Police force area in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offences of wasting police time were committed in the Grampian Police force area in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10. ","AnswerText":"Offences of public mischief1 recorded by Grampian Police, 2008-09 and 2009-10 | | Grampian | | 2008-09 | 95 | | 2009-10 | 122 | Note: 1. The offence of public mischief includes, but is not restricted to, wasting police time. Source: Scottish Government Justice Analytical Services. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245345,"EventID":"S3W-38827","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the change has been in the number of (a) primary school teachers, (b) secondary school teachers and (c) classroom assistants in the North East of Scotland parliament","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the change has been in the number of (a) primary school teachers, (b) secondary school teachers and (c) classroom assistants in the North East of Scotland parliamentary region in each year since May 2007, also broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"The following tables give the changes in teachers and classroom assistants in the North East of Scotland parliamentary constituency, since the September 2006 school census. Primary | | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Aberdeen City | -56 | -96 | 40 | -20 | | Aberdeenshire | 16 | 83 | -19 | 29 | | Angus | 14 | 5 | -10 | 15 | | Dundee City | 36 | -16 | 3 | -10 | | Moray | -3 | -2 | 1 | -1 | | Perth and Kinross | 3 | -3 | 2 | -1 | | NES PC | 11 | -29 | 17 | 12 | Secondary | | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Aberdeen City | -6 | -92 | -15 | -55 | | Aberdeenshire | 22 | SPS does not hold this information as it is not practicable or cost effective to assess all prisoners to determine their literacy or numeracy needs. However, any prisoner who engages with the prison learning centre undergoes a detailed literacy and numeracy screening assessment to establish the individual''s starting point level. The SPS classifies a prisoner''s capabilities based on the national levels of Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) qualifications. Those identified at SQA Intermediate 1 level are deemed to be functioning at approximately foundation/general level at standard grade. Anybody at or below Intermediate 1 is considered to be lacking functional literacy or numeracy. The SPS will introduce a new literacy and numeracy screening and levelling tool as part of the new learning and skills contract which is scheduled to go live on 1 August 2011. This tool will be applied to all prisoners serving six months or more. The following table shows the level of assessed literacy and numeracy need of those who attended the prison learning centres during 2009-10. | Prison | Less than SQA Intermediate 1 Communication | Less than SQA Intermediate 1 Numeracy | | Aberdeen | 188 out of 274 = 69% | 154 out of 276 = 56% | | Addiewell | 484 out of 731 = 66% | 332 out of 731 = 45% | | Barlinnie | 557 out of 831 = 67% | 502 out of 830 = 60% | | Cornton Vale* | 91 out of 144 = 63% | 62 out of 101 = 61% | | Dumfries | 101 out of 166 = 61% | 95 out of 166 = 57% | | Edinburgh | 191 out of 279 = 68% | 145 out of 204 = 71% | | Glenochil | 394 out of 625 = 63% | 204 out of 285 = 72% | | Greenock | 336 out of 562 = 60% | 333 out of 557 = 60% | | Inverness | 180 out of 320 = 56% | 163 out of 320 = 51% | | Kilmarnock** | N/A | N/A | | Open Estate | 57 out of 147 = 39% | 38 out of 147 = 26% | | Perth | 142 out of 327 = 43% | 138 out of 327 = 42% | | Peterhead ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245348,"EventID":"S3W-38830","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38036 by Kenny MacAskill on 2 December 2010, how many offenders received a custodial sentence of three months or less in 2009-10, b","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38036 by Kenny MacAskill on 2 December 2010, how many offenders received a custodial sentence of three months or less in 2009-10, broken down by (a) main offence and (b) police force area.","AnswerText":"The information requested is given in Table 10(a) of the additional datasets to the statistical bulletin Court Proceedings in Scotland 2009-10, which is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/Datasets/PFA0910. The dates of all Scottish Government Official and National Statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245349,"EventID":"S3W-38831","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it supports the creation of a single Scottish police force. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it supports the creation of a single Scottish police force. ","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38563 on 24 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245350,"EventID":"S3W-38832","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will outline its position before 5 May 2011 on the creation of a single Scottish police force.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will outline its position before 5 May 2011 on the creation of a single Scottish police force.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38563 on 24 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245351,"EventID":"S3W-38833","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-32624 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 April 2010, how many prisoners obtained (a) SQA and (b) vocational qualifications in 2009-10, broken","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-32624 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 April 2010, how many prisoners obtained (a) SQA and (b) vocational qualifications in 2009-10, broken down by prison.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: Information on the number of SQA Qualifications obtained in 2009-10 and the number of prisoners who attained them is set out in the following tables: Information on other vocational qualifications is presently being collected from establishments. I will write to the member with this information as soon as it becomes available. SQA Education Qualifications: | Prison | 2009-10 | | | Number of Prisoners | Number of SQA Education Qualifications | | Aberdeen | 68 | 260 | | Addiewell | 0 | 0 | | Barlinnie | 249 | 1033 | | Cornton Vale | 81 | 143 | | Dumfries | 97 | 200 | | Edinburgh | 226 | 524 | | Glenochil | 77 | 190 | | Greenock | 167 | 405 | | Inverness | 68 | 170 | | Kilmarnock | 86 | 116 | | Open Estate | 22 | 61 | | Perth | 209 | 656 | | Peterhead | 60 | 132 | | Polmont | 184 | 482 | | Shotts | 127 | 333 | | Total Education | 1,721 | 4,705 | SQA Vocational Qualifications: | Prison | 2009-10 | | Number of Prisoners | Number of SQA Vocational Qualifications | | Addiewell | 66 | I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38833 on 28 January 2011 advising that information on other vocational qualifications is currently being collected from establishments. I will write to the member with this information as soon as it becomes available. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245353,"EventID":"S3W-38835","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37637 by Kenny MacAskill on 2 December 2010, whether there has been a change to the mid-2013 target date for the Gartcosh crime cam","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37637 by Kenny MacAskill on 2 December 2010, whether there has been a change to the mid-2013 target date for the Gartcosh crime campus to be fully operational.","AnswerText":"No. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245354,"EventID":"S3W-38836","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on Education Maintenance Allowance in (a) Dundee and (b) Angus in each year since 2007-08.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on Education Maintenance Allowance in (a) Dundee and (b) Angus in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"Details of how much has been spent on Education Maintenance Allowances in Dundee and Angus in each academic year since 2007-08 are in the following table: | | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Dundee | £624,710 | £632,315 | £697,430 | | Angus | £446,645 | £456,680 | £449,625 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245355,"EventID":"S3W-38837","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) inpatient and day case episodes and (b) new and return outpatient attendances there have been in NHS Tayside in each year since 2007-08.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) inpatient and day case episodes and (b) new and return outpatient attendances there have been in NHS Tayside in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"Information on (a) inpatient and day case episodes and (b) new and return outpatient attendances in NHS Tayside for financial years ending 31 March 2001 to 2010 is published on the Information Services Division (ISD) website at: Inpatients and Day Cases: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4066.html Outpatients: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4156.html. The number of inpatient and day case episodes are provided in Table 1 and the number of new and return outpatient attendances are provided in Table 2 for NHS Tayside for financial year 2007-08 to 2009-10. Table 1: Number of Inpatient and Day Cases for NHS Tayside from All Acute Specialties for the Financial Year 2007-08 to 2009-10 | Patient Type | Financial Year | | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10P | | All Patient Types | 96,127 | 101,971 | 96,266 | | Day Cases | 21,279 | 22,021 | 16,617 | | Elective Inpatients | 17,709 | 18,978 | 18,666 | | Emergency Inpatients | 44,707 | 46,415 | 46,083 | | Transfers | 12,432 | 14,557 | 14,900 | P2009-10 data is provisional. Table 2: Number of New and Return Outpatient Attendances for NHS Tayside for All Specialties (Excluding Accident and Emergency) for the Financial Years 2007-08 to 2009-10 | Indicator | Financial Year | | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10P | | New Outpatient Attendances | 119,500 | 131,300 | 132,747 | | Return Outpatient Attendances | 309,382 | 319,182 | 310,644 | <","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245356,"EventID":"S3W-38838","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances there have been at nurse-led clinics for acute specialities in NHS Tayside, broken down by (a) new and (b) total attendances in each year since 2007-","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances there have been at nurse-led clinics for acute specialities in NHS Tayside, broken down by (a) new and (b) total attendances in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"Information on the number of attendances at nurse-led clinics for acute specialities in NHS Tayside, broken down by (a) new and (b) total attendances for financial years ending 31 March 2007 to 2010 is published on the Information Services Division (ISD) website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4453.html. Please note that this data is developmental and should be treated with caution. The number of attendances at nurse-led clinics for NHS Tayside for acute specialties is provided in the following table. Number of attendances at nurse-led clinics for NHS Tayside for acute specialties for financial years 2007-08 to 2009-10 | Indicator | Financial Year | | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | New Attendances | 11,574 | 13,260 | 14,927 | | Total Attendances | 58,608 | 71,365 | 105,363 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245357,"EventID":"S3W-38839","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many procedures have been performed in acute specialities in NHS Tayside broken down by (a) inpatients and (b) day cases, in each year since 2007-08.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many procedures have been performed in acute specialities in NHS Tayside broken down by (a) inpatients and (b) day cases, in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"The following table shows the total number of inpatient and day case procedures performed in NHS Tayside for the financial years ending 31 March 2008 to 2010. Number of Inpatient and Day Case Procedures Performed in NHS Tayside, Financial Years 2007-08 to 2009-10 | | Financial Year | | NHS Tayside | 2007-08 | 2008-091 | 2009-101 | | Inpatients | 67,811 | 35,253 | 34,250 | | Day Cases | 23,034 | 23,688 | 21,071 | | Total | 90,845 | 58,941 | 55,321 | Source: ISD Scotland (SMR01). Note: 1. It should be noted that from the 1 April 2008, it was no longer mandatory to record interventions/procedures (such as imaging, injections, infusions, x-rays etc) unless the patient is specifically admitted for this purpose. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245358,"EventID":"S3W-38840","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances there have been at each NHS Tayside accident and emergency centre in each year since 2007-08.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances there have been at each NHS Tayside accident and emergency centre in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"The number of attendances (new and unplanned returns) from July 2007 to September 2010 for each accident and emergency department in NHS Tayside are provided in the following table. The number of monthly attendances at each accident and emergency department across Scotland is published quarterly and can be viewed at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4024.html. Prior to 1 July 2007 information for accident and emergency attendances was collected centrally from the ISD monthly aggregate return ISD(S)1 but is only published at NHS Board level at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4156.html. A new data collection system was introduced from 1 July 2007 which provides information on attendances on all accident and emergency departments. Accident and emergency departments are classified as either core or non-core sites. Core sites include all accident and emergency departments within large hospitals. Non-core sites include minor injury units, small hospitals with manual systems and health centres in rural areas that carry out accident and emergency type activity. The information provided in the table covers the periods: 1 July 2007 to 31 March 2008; the full year periods for 2008-09 and 2009-10; and for 1 April 2010 to 30 September 2010. Total Number of Attendances at Accident and Emergency Departments in NHS Tayside for Financial Years 2007-08 to 2010-11 | | Financial Year | | Accident and Emergency Department | 2007-08* | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11P | | Ninewells Hospital | 35,500 | 48,646 | 48,045 | 25,079 | | Perth Royal Infirmary | 18,737 | 24,854 | 24,927 | 13,602 | | Arbroath Infirmary | 6,578 | 9,045 | 13,394 | 7,451 | | Blairgowrie Community Hospital | 1,349 | 1,906 | 3,054 | 1,659 | | Brechin Infirmary | 1,482 | 1,748 | 3,374 | 1,827 | | Cottage Hospital, Aberfeldy | - | 6 | 202 | 52 ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245360,"EventID":"S3W-38842","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of an emergency ambulance call out in the East Central division of the Scottish Ambulance Service area in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of an emergency ambulance call out in the East Central division of the Scottish Ambulance Service area in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The average cost of an emergency ambulance in 2009-10 in East Central division of the Scottish Ambulance Service was £263.24. This, and a range of other information relating to the cost of ambulance activity, is published annually in the ISD Scotland Cost Book. This information can be found at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/costs-overview.jsp?pContentID=3726&p_applic=CCC&p_service=Content.show&. \r\nhttp://www.scottishambulance.com/AboutUs/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245362,"EventID":"S3W-38844","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of an attendance at an accident and emergency unit in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of an attendance at an accident and emergency unit in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The average cost of an attendance at an NHSScotland hospital providing accident and emergency consultant-led outpatient care in the financial year 2009-10 was £107. \r\nDX!","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245363,"EventID":"S3W-38845","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of a consultant outpatient attendance in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average cost was of a consultant outpatient attendance in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The average cost of a consultant outpatient attendance at an NHSScotland location in the financial year 2009-10 was £126. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245364,"EventID":"S3W-38846","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many bed days in NHS Tayside were associated with alcohol-related conditions in 2009-10. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many bed days in NHS Tayside were associated with alcohol-related conditions in 2009-10. ","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-31621 on 9 March 2010. Data for 2008-09 are the latest available. Data for 2009-10 are due to be published on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245365,"EventID":"S3W-38847","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how Scotland scored in the latest OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) report, PISA 2009 Assessment Framework - Key Competencies in Reading, Mathema","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how Scotland scored in the latest OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) report, PISA 2009 Assessment Framework - Key Competencies in Reading, Mathematics and Science, for extracurricular reading and how this compares with the scores of other participants.","AnswerText":"There are a range of questions asked to pupils about extracurricular reading, with no one overall measure. The results of these are summarised on page 15 of the report PISA 2009, Highlights from Scotland''s Results available on the government website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/stats/bulletins/00880. More detailed data are available in Volume III, annexes B1 and B2 of the OECD Report PISA 2009 Results: Learning to Learn which is available from the OECD website www.oecd.org/pisa or in the parliament library. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245366,"EventID":"S3W-38848","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how Scotland’s scoring for extracurricular reading in the latest OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) report, PISA 2009 Assessment Framework - Key C","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how Scotland’s scoring for extracurricular reading in the latest OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) report, PISA 2009 Assessment Framework - Key Competencies in Reading, Mathematics and Science, compares with its results in previous PISA reports.","AnswerText":"There are a range of questions asked to pupils about extracurricular reading, with no one overall measure. The results of these are summarised on page 15 of the report PISA 2009, Highlights from Scotland''s Results available on the government website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/stats/bulletins/00880. More detailed data are available in Volume III, annex B2 of the OECD Report PISA 2009 Results: Learning to Learn which is available from the OECD website www.oecd.org/pisa or in the parliament library. Reading was last assessed in detail in PISA in 2000. The results for reading engagement are published in Section 5 of the report PISA 2000 “ Scotland Analysis, available on the government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2004/06/19464/38485. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245367,"EventID":"S3W-38849","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it is doing to increase the levels of extracurricular reading among school-age children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it is doing to increase the levels of extracurricular reading among school-age children.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government recognises the important role of extracurricular reading in the literacy development of young people. Our Literacy Action Plan, launched in October, sets out our vision to raise standards of literacy for all, from the early years through to adulthood. The plan recognises the importance of reading as a valued activity from an early age, and the social, educational, and familial benefits of reading in the home. We will continue to work with our partners to support measures to develop Scotland as a literate, reading nation. Within Curriculum for Excellence, reading is a key focus of the development of literacy skills, and the associated guidance indicates that young people should have opportunities to experience reading for enjoyment and interest at all stages. Through the Scottish Book Trust (SBT) early reading experiences are encouraged by the Bookbug book-gifting scheme, which includes the provision of a free book to all children in their first year of primary school. For financial year 2010-11, we have provided SBT with £1.05 million towards this scheme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245368,"EventID":"S3W-38850","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what importance it considers extracurricular reading to have in the context of improving literacy among school-age children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what importance it considers extracurricular reading to have in the context of improving literacy among school-age children.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38849 on 25 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245369,"EventID":"S3W-38851","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1970,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":65,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when an announcement will be made regarding who has been appointed chief executive of Healthcare Improvement Scotland and what the reasons are for the time taken to make ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when an announcement will be made regarding who has been appointed chief executive of Healthcare Improvement Scotland and what the reasons are for the time taken to make the announcement.","AnswerText":"Healthcare Improvement Scotland will be established on 1 April 2011. Following open competition for the role of chief executive, Dr Frances Elliot has been appointed on an interim basis until December 2011. This is a new post in a new organisation and as such a number of practical issues had to be considered. This is reflected in the time taken to confirm the arrangements. Future appointments will be a matter for the board of Healthcare Improvement Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245370,"EventID":"S3W-38852","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1814,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the disposal of assets from local authorities to community groups or trusts.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the disposal of assets from local authorities to community groups or trusts.","AnswerText":"It is for local authorities as independent corporate bodies to decide whether to dispose of their assets to community groups or trusts. However, the Scottish Government recognises, that in the right circumstances, community asset ownership can be a powerful way for communities to develop and become more empowered. For that reason, we have invested £250,000 in a programme run by the Development Trust Association Scotland which aims to learn from and promote good practice in transferring assets from local authorities to community groups. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245371,"EventID":"S3W-38853","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1814,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is able to assist community groups or trusts that wish to acquire assets from local authorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is able to assist community groups or trusts that wish to acquire assets from local authorities.","AnswerText":"It is for local authorities as independent corporate bodies to decide whether they dispose of their assets to community groups or trusts. New Regulations were introduced on 1 June 2010 simplifying the procedures local authorities must follow when considering a disposal at less than best consideration. The Scottish Government supports local authorities making local decisions to meet the needs and priorities of their local communities. It also recognises that, in the right circumstances, community asset ownership can be a powerful way for communities to develop and become more empowered. For that reason, we have invested £250,000 in a programme run by the Development Trust Association Scotland which aims to learn from and promote good practice in transferring assets from local authorities to community groups. Six good practice seminars aimed specifically at community groups and trusts have been run as part of that programme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245372,"EventID":"S3W-38854","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many test purchases have been carried out of deliveries of alcohol purchased via the internet and with what results, in each year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many test purchases have been carried out of deliveries of alcohol purchased via the internet and with what results, in each year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The use of test purchasing is an operational matter for the chief constables. At present, the police operate an intelligence led deployment of test purchasing to ensure that resources are effectively targeted. There have been no test purchases made on deliveries of alcohol purchased via the internet. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245373,"EventID":"S3W-38855","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people convicted for shoplifting in each of the last three years have reoffended within a year of conviction.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people convicted for shoplifting in each of the last three years have reoffended within a year of conviction.","AnswerText":"The information requested is provided in the following table. One Year Reconviction Rates for Offenders Receiving a Community Sentence/Released from a Custodial Sentence for Shoplifting: 2005-06 to 2007-08 | 2005-06 | | | Number of Offenders | 3,761 | | Number Reconvicted | 2,149 | | % Reconvicted | 57.1% | | 2006-07 | | | Number of Offenders | 3,999 | | Number Reconvicted | 2,261 | | % Reconvicted | 56.5% | | 2007-08 | | | Number of Offenders | 3,898 | | Number Reconvicted | 2,156 | | % Reconvicted | 55.3% | Note: 1. Re-offending rates cannot be measured directly since not all offences result in prosecution and conviction. Instead, reconviction rates are used as a proxy measure of the rate of re-offending. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245374,"EventID":"S3W-38856","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3O-12587 by Jim Mather on 13 January 2011, whether any of the £32 million invested came from a source other than the Scottish Co-inves","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3O-12587 by Jim Mather on 13 January 2011, whether any of the £32 million invested came from a source other than the Scottish Co-investment Fund, the Scottish Venture Fund and the Scottish Seed Fund.","AnswerText":"Primarily, the investment activity would be delivered through the Scottish Co-investment Fund, the Scottish Venture Fund and the Scottish Seed Fund. Some 90% of the investments in 2009-10 relate to these funds. In addition, Scottish Enterprise, through the Scottish Investment Bank team, delivers a Portfolio Fund to support follow on investment activity and can also invest directly in businesses, which accounted for £3.4 million investment in 2009-10. Full performance details on investment activity are published in the Scottish Enterprise Investments 2009-10 annual review, available through the Scottish Enterprise website. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245375,"EventID":"S3W-38857","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will update the information on the visual influence of built development and land use change recorded in the August 2008 edition of Scottish Natural Heritage’s","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will update the information on the visual influence of built development and land use change recorded in the August 2008 edition of Scottish Natural Heritage’s Natural Heritage Indicator, which stated that, between 2002 and 2008, “the extent of Scotland unaffected by any form of visual influence declined from 41% to 31%.”","AnswerText":"I understand that Scottish Natural Heritage plans to publish an update on its Natural Heritage Indicator, Visual influence of built development and land use change by the end of January 2011. This will confirm that the area of Scotland from which no built development is visible reduced from 31% in January 2008 to 28% in December 2009. This is in the main caused by wind turbine development and its associated visual influence which is greater than development at ground level. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245376,"EventID":"S3W-38858","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the findings of the final report, commissioned by it, Review of Status and Conservation of Wild Land, by the University of Leeds’ Wildland Researc","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the findings of the final report, commissioned by it, Review of Status and Conservation of Wild Land, by the University of Leeds’ Wildland Research Institute.","AnswerText":"The Leeds University, Wildland Research Institute report Review of the Status and Conservation of Wild Land in Europe is a useful contribution to the debate on wild land following on from the European Parliament resolution of February 2009 calling for special status and stricter protection for wilderness zones in Europe and the Natura 2000 network. The research examined approaches to the management of wild land elsewhere in Europe comparable to that found in Scotland with a view to identifying lesson from their experiences relevant to the future care of wild land in Scotland. A key recommendation of the report is for the identification of wild land areas so that these may be safeguarded. Scottish Natural Heritage''s (SNH) wildness mapping project will give a more detailed view of the extent and location of relative wildness than the current indicative search areas of wild land. The new maps will inform revisions to SNH''s guidance and advice regarding wild land in Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245377,"EventID":"S3W-38859","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the principles set out by European Parliament resolution INI/2008/2210, Wilderness in Europe, which was approved by 538 votes to 19 on 3 February ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the principles set out by European Parliament resolution INI/2008/2210, Wilderness in Europe, which was approved by 538 votes to 19 on 3 February 2009.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government welcomes the discussion and debate in the European Parliament about the contribution that Europe''s wild areas make to safeguarding biodiversity. In contrast to Scotland''s wilder landscapes, some of which show the imprint of past generations, some continental areas are wilderness in the true sense of the word “ including relatively pristine forests in Eastern Europe. A Scottish approach to the issues raised by the resolution is therefore appropriate. We have commissioned research exploring approaches to the management of wild land elsewhere in Europe and are considering the results of this study. In the meantime Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is currently undertaking further work on the definition and mapping of wildness and wild land areas. We will consider the results of this when it is completed. The Scottish Government will keep under review progress on the resolution in discussion with SNH. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245378,"EventID":"S3W-38860","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what statistics are available regarding the contribution made to the economy by the natural heritage sector.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what statistics are available regarding the contribution made to the economy by the natural heritage sector.","AnswerText":"There are no annual statistics produced specifically for the natural heritage sector. However, some analysis has been undertaken in reports commissioned by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Scottish Government, although each report looks at different aspects of the natural heritage contribution. The details are as follows: | Report name | Published | Estimated Contribution | Number of Jobs | | SNH Commissioned Report 72: The role of the natural heritage in generating and supporting employment opportunities in Scotland | 2004 | £2.2 billion | 93,000 | | Valuing our Environment - The Economic Impact of Scotland''s Natural Environment (SNH) | 2008 | £17.2 billion | 242,000 | | SNH Commissioned Report 398: Assessing the value of nature based tourism in Scotland | 2010 | £1.4 billion | 39,000 | | The Economic Impact of Wildlife Tourism in Scotland (Scottish Govt) | 2010 | £64 million | 2,760 | Copies of the reports can be found on the following web links: http://www.snh.org.uk/pubs/detail.asp?id=489 http://www.snh.org.uk/pubs/detail.asp?id=1035 http://www.snh.org.uk/pubs/detail.asp?id=1548 http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/05/12164456/0. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245379,"EventID":"S3W-38861","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2675,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide an update on its policy for the long-term management of higher activity radioactive waste arising in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide an update on its policy for the long-term management of higher activity radioactive waste arising in Scotland.","AnswerText":"I am pleased to announce publication today of the policy for higher activity radioactive waste arising in Scotland and also the Post-Adoption Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Statement. The documents can be accessed at www.scotland.gov.uk/hawpolicy and www.scotland.gov.uk/hawpostadoption. Copies of the documents have also been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52310 and Bib. number 52311).The Scottish Government position remains that it does not support deep geological disposal of radioactive waste. The Scottish Government policy is that the long-term management of higher activity radioactive waste should be in near-surface facilities. Facilities should be located as near to the site where the waste is produced as possible. Developers will need to demonstrate how the facilities will be monitored and how waste packages, or waste, could be retrieved. All long-term waste management options will be subject to robust regulatory requirements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245380,"EventID":"S3W-38862","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many instances of dangerous driving by people under 25 have been recorded in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many instances of dangerous driving by people under 25 have been recorded in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. The police recorded crime data collected centrally is based on an aggregate return from each of the eight police forces in Scotland and does not include the ages of perpetrators. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245381,"EventID":"S3W-38863","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years have (a) received a lifetime ban, (b) had their car confiscated, (c) had their car ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years have (a) received a lifetime ban, (b) had their car confiscated, (c) had their car seized and (d) had their licence removed.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. There was one person aged under 25 disqualified for life in 2008-09. Information on the numbers of cars confiscated or seized is not held centrally. Persons Under 25 with a Charge Proved for Dangerous Driving1 who were Disqualified, from 2005-06 to 2009-10 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total convicted | 430 | 548 | 558 | 455 | 383 | | Of which disqualified | 404 | 474 | 461 | 432 | 352 | | Percentage disqualified | 94.0 | 86.5 | 82.6 | 94.9 | 91.9 | Note: 1. Where main offence. The following is the original answer (published on 28 January 2011); see below. The available information on persons disqualified from driving for dangerous driving in 2005-06 to 2009-10 is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Information on the numbers of cars confiscated or seized is not held centrally. Persons Under 25 with a Charge Proved for Dangerous Driving1 who were Disqualified, from 2005-06 to 2009-10 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total Convicted | 430 | 548 | 558 | 455 | 383 | | Of Which Disqualified | 404 | 474 | 461 | 431 | 352 | | There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Information on the numbers of cars confiscated or seized is not held centrally. Persons under 25 with a Charge Proved for Causing Death through Dangerous Driving1, from 2005-06 to 2009-10 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total | 9 | 8 | 13 | 7 | 10 | | Of which disqualified | 7 | 6 | 13 | 6 | 9 | | Percentage disqualified | 77.7 | 75.0 | 100.0 | 85.7 | 90.0 | Note: 1. Where main offence. The following is the original answer (published on 28 January 2011); see below. The available information on persons disqualified from driving for causing death through dangerous driving in 2005-06 to 2009-10 is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Information on the numbers of cars confiscated or seized is not held centrally. Persons Under 25 with a Charge Proved for Causing Death Through Dangerous Driving1, from 2005-06 to 2009-10 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total | 10 | 12 | 13 | 8 | 12 | | Of Which Disqualified | 8 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245384,"EventID":"S3W-38866","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money it has given the Scottish Society for Autism in each year since 2007 and for what purpose.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money it has given the Scottish Society for Autism in each year since 2007 and for what purpose.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has awarded the following funding to the Scottish Society for Autism: 1. Voluntary Sector Development Fund 2009-10: £22,270 2010-11: £35,000. 2. Section 9 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 2008-09: £99,460 2009-10: £99,075 2010-11: £103,278. Section 9 funding was awarded to help the Scottish Society for Autism to develop and deliver training courses for local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245385,"EventID":"S3W-38867","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37293 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, what issues were discussed at the meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on Resource","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37293 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, what issues were discussed at the meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation on 30 November 2010.","AnswerText":"The meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation (TAGRA) on 30 November 2010 was cancelled due to the severe weather disruption. The issues which were due for discussion were: Updates to the morbidity and life circumstances adjustment within the NHSScotland Resource Allocation Committee (NRAC) formula; Options for the future development of the NRAC formula; TAGRA''s 2011-12 work plan; and Potential changes to the Costs Book which may affect NRAC formula data. These issues have been discussed through correspondence with members. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245386,"EventID":"S3W-38868","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37293 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, whether the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation considered its work plan ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37293 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, whether the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation considered its work plan for 2011-12 at its meeting on 30 November 2010 and, if so, what its work plan is.","AnswerText":"The meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation (TAGRA) on 30 November 2010 was cancelled due to the severe weather conditions. TAGRA''s work plan for 2011-12 has been discussed through correspondence with members, and will cover: GP out of hours services; Moving from episodes to spells within specialty as the basis of acute activity costs; Commencing a review of the morbidity and life circumstances adjustment, and Reviewing the split between fixed and variable costs. A new working group will also be established between members of TAGRA and the North of Scotland Planning Group to progress issues concerning the provision of healthcare in remote and rural areas. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245387,"EventID":"S3W-38869","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37923 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, whether the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation has agreed a timetable fo","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37923 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 November 2010, whether the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation has agreed a timetable for implementation of the recommendations in its recently published report on the impact of the NHSScotland Resource Allocation Committee (NRAC) formula on remote and rural areas.","AnswerText":"The key recommendation of the report, relating to GP out-of-hours, has been included on the Technical Advisory Group on Resource Allocation''s work plan for 2011-12. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245388,"EventID":"S3W-38870","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many under-18s sustained sports-related injuries in 2009-10 and how this compares with the European Union average per head of population.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many under-18s sustained sports-related injuries in 2009-10 and how this compares with the European Union average per head of population.","AnswerText":"Complete data on the number of people of who have sustained sports-related injuries in Scotland is not collected centrally. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38871 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx . ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245389,"EventID":"S3W-38871","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to further develop Scotland’s sports-injury reporting system.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to further develop Scotland’s sports-injury reporting system.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is currently funding ISD to run a project which will gather relevant data on injuries presenting through accident and emergency (A&E) services in Scotland in order to develop a better evidence base on the size and nature of the problem of both intentional (assaults) and unintentional injuries. This data gathering is seen as an essential first step before considering what measures might need to be taken to address the issue of injury reduction. The 18-month project started on 1 July 2010 and is anticipated to end in December 2011. Data will enable the breakdown of the figures by age, gender, location injury occurred and type of accident (i.e. fall, or burn etc), activity when injured and social sector (using deprivation categories). Place of injury and activity when injured will make it easier to identify sports injuries presented through A&E services in future. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245390,"EventID":"S3W-38872","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the termination of statistical reporting by the UK-wide Home Accident Surveillance System and the Leisure Accident Surveillance System in 2003, for what reas","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the termination of statistical reporting by the UK-wide Home Accident Surveillance System and the Leisure Accident Surveillance System in 2003, for what reason Scotland has no official body that collates injury statistics, including for sporting activities.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38871 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245391,"EventID":"S3W-38873","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much public funding Arts and Business Scotland received in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and has received for (c) 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much public funding Arts and Business Scotland received in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and has received for (c) 2010-11.","AnswerText":"Arts and Business Scotland received public funding, from the Scottish Government and other national organisations, of: (a) £462,000 in 2008-09 plus lottery funding of £32,650. (b) £484,400 in 2009-10 plus lottery funding of £21,930. (c) £485,000 has been allocated for 2010-11. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245392,"EventID":"S3W-38874","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the membership is of the Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the membership is of the Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee members are; Ian Livingstone CBE (Convener), Marlene Anderson, Dan Brown, Declan Hall, Mark Irvine and Jack Wilson. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245393,"EventID":"S3W-38875","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to build a new sheriff court in Inverness.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to build a new sheriff court in Inverness.","AnswerText":"This question relates to operational matters that are the responsibility of the Scottish Court Service (SCS) corporate body. The question has been passed to the Chief Executive of the SCS who will reply in writing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245394,"EventID":"S3W-38876","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-21939 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 March 2009, what progress has been made on the evaluation of the suitability of the identified sites","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-21939 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 March 2009, what progress has been made on the evaluation of the suitability of the identified sites for the proposed HMP Highland.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) announced in October 2008 that it planned to replace HMP Inverness with a new prison, HMP Highland. Work was taken forward in conjunction with Highland Council to identify potential sites for this development within or near to Inverness. This exercise identified a number of sites which merited consideration and further detailed work was then carried out to evaluate the suitability of these sites. From this work, SPS identified that the most suitable site for the development was a site owned by Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE) which is located adjacent to the Inverness Retail Park. SPS met with HIE on 2 September 2010 to discuss the possible sale of the site land. HIE confirmed at this meeting that it would not be prepared to sell the land to SPS therefore SPS is currently considering its options for taking forward the proposed development. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245395,"EventID":"S3W-38877","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-19T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what disposals were applied to people charged under section 33(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 in each year since 2007-08.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what disposals were applied to people charged under section 33(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. Persons Proceeded Against Under Section 33(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 19901, by Main Result, from 2007-08 to 2009-10 | Main Result of Proceedings | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Not Guilty | 6 | 5 | 12 | | Imprisonment | 1 | 0 | 0 | | Fine | 24 | 17 | 8 | | Admonished | 2 | 0 | 1 | | Total | 33 | 22 | 21 | Note: 1. Where main offence. Source: Scottish Government Court Proceedings database. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245396,"EventID":"S3W-38878","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of babies has been exclusively breastfed at six to eight weeks in NHS Tayside in each quarter since June 2007 and what the corresponding figures are for e","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of babies has been exclusively breastfed at six to eight weeks in NHS Tayside in each quarter since June 2007 and what the corresponding figures are for each of its community health partnership areas.","AnswerText":"Details are as follows: NHS Tayside: Exclusive Breastfeeding at the Six to Eight Week Review1 by Community Health Partnership | | NHS Tayside | Angus CHP | Dundee CHP | Perth and Kinross CHP | | Birth Quarter Ending | Number of Reviews | % Exclusively Breastfed | Number of Reviews | % Exclusively Breastfed | Number of Reviews | % Exclusively Breastfed | Number of Reviews | % Exclusively Breastfed | | June 2007 | 997 | 29.4 | 315 | 27.6 | 361 | 21.3 | 322 | 40.1 | | September 2007 | 1,071 | 27.4 | 285 | 25.3 | 411 | 22.1 | 375 | 34.7 | | December 2007 | 1,041 | 25.5 | 304 | 23.7 | 401 | 18.7 | 336 | 35.1 | | March 2008 | 1,054 | 25.5 | 291 | 28.5 | 396 | 15.7 | 367 | 33.8 | | June 2008 | 1,033 | 27.6 | 315 | 27 | 406 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245398,"EventID":"S3W-38880","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the ban on the selling of raw cow’s drinking milk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the ban on the selling of raw cow’s drinking milk.","AnswerText":"The Food Standards Agency in Scotland is responsible for food safety and standards and for the legislation controlling the sale of raw milk. The ban, which was first introduced in 1983 has subsequently been reviewed in 1995, 1998 and most recently in 2004 as part of the EU wide review of food hygiene controls. The Minister''s position in 2004 was informed by a wide ranging public consultation. At each of these reviews the evidence provided supported the policy decision to maintain the ban. In 2004 Scottish ministers reconfirmed their wish to maintain the ban. The ban in Scotland offers a high level of public health protection and has marked a decline in milk-related illness, which has been maintained in subsequent years. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245399,"EventID":"S3W-38881","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received supporting the ban on selling raw cow’s drinking milk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received supporting the ban on selling raw cow’s drinking milk.","AnswerText":"In March 2004, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in Scotland consulted with approximately 700 Scottish stakeholders on the European Commission proposals to consolidate and simplify EU food hygiene legislation. In total 26 Scottish stakeholders responded to this consultation of which nine commented specifically on Article 10(8) of EC Regulation No 2/2004, which allowed member states to maintain or establish national rules prohibiting the sale of raw milk or raw cream direct for human consumption. All nine Scottish stakeholders were in favour of retaining the ban in Scotland. Approximately 700 Scottish stakeholders were consulted on the draft Food Hygiene Regulations (Scotland) consultation held in October 2004. A total of 16 responses received were in favour of retaining the ban and in support of regulation 32 Schedule 6 providing restrictions on the placing on the market of raw milk and raw cream. Nine responses were from Scottish local authorities. Two responses were received from food liaison groups (Lothian and Borders and West of Scotland) and three were from NHS service areas (Lothian, Highland and Dumfries and Galloway). Responses were also received from a hospitality association (British Hospitality Association) and from the Scottish Food Advisory Committee. All responses fully supported the retention of the raw milk and cream ban in Scotland. FSA in Scotland did not receive any responses from Scottish stakeholders opposing the raw milk ban in Scotland. In September 2005, approximately 700 Scottish stakeholders were again consulted on a further draft Food Hygiene (Scotland) (No 2) Regulations. On this occasion two responses were received - one from the NHS National Services Scotland and one from the food liaison group (Lothian and Borders). Both reinforced the importance on public health grounds of retaining the raw milk and cream ban in Scotland. FSA Scotland again did not receive comments from Scottish stakeholders opposing the ban in Scotland. From 2005-2008, FSA in Scotland received 3 letters from the Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome Help (HUSH)* UK E-coli support group. The correspondence from HUSH supported the ban on raw drinking milk and raised concerns about the sale of raw milk for the use in raw milk products such as unpasteurised cheese and the labelling of unpasteurised cheeses. In September 2000 an E.coli Task Force was appointed by the then Minister for Health and Community Care, Susan Deacon, under the joint sponsorship of the FSA in Scotland and the then Scottish Executive Health Department to examine the sources of E.coli O157 and the risks and measures to avoid or minimise exposure to infection. In 2000-01, the task force received representations from the Scottish Food Co-ordinating Committee, HUSH and the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food and they all supported the continued application of the Scottish ban and proposed the introduction of compulsory pasteurisation of raw cow''s milk in England and Wales. This task force published its report in October 2001 focusing mainly on the Scottish situation. It examined the foods associated with outbreaks of E.coli 0157, including the consumption of raw milk on farm in Scotland. The task force recommended that all raw drinking milk for sale in England and Wales should be heat treated and that the pasteurisation process should be extended to include all raw milk from other species such raw sheep and goat''s milk. Note: * HUSH charitable organisation was set up in 1997 following the outbreak of E.coli 0157 in central Scotland (Wishaw) where 20 people died and there were 497 reported cases. HUSH aims to increase public awareness of E.Coli 0157, to disseminate information to avoid infection, to increase public awareness of E.coli 0157 and to encourage the Government to decrease the cases of E.coli 0157. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245400,"EventID":"S3W-38882","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received supporting the sale of raw cow’s drinking milk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received supporting the sale of raw cow’s drinking milk.","AnswerText":"Since the Food Standards Agency inherited policy responsibility for this matter in 2000, it has received correspondence from five individual members of the public expressing support for the sale of raw drinking milk. In addition it has received five pieces of ministerial correspondence where concerns have been raised about the current ban and restrictions on access to raw cow''s drinking milk. The agency has carried out three major public consultations on this matter during this time where, on each occasion, over 700 key stakeholder''s views were sought. On each of these occasions, no representations were received supporting the removal of the existing ban. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245401,"EventID":"S3W-38883","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are undertaken to ensure that raw cow’s drinking milk is not sold.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are undertaken to ensure that raw cow’s drinking milk is not sold.","AnswerText":"Under the consolidated EU hygiene rules, which took effect from on 1 January 2006, member states were able to introduce or maintain national rules prohibiting or restricting the placing on the market, within its territory, of raw milk or raw cream. Regulation 32 and Schedule 6 of the Food Hygiene (Scotland) Regulations 2006 prohibits the placing on the market of raw milk and raw cream, for direct human consumption. These regulations are enforced by Scotland''s 32 local food authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245402,"EventID":"S3W-38884","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Food Standards Agency regarding the safety of raw cow’s drinking milk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Food Standards Agency regarding the safety of raw cow’s drinking milk.","AnswerText":"The Food Standards Agency in Scotland is responsible for food safety and standards and for the legislation controlling the sale of raw milk. In 2004 and 2005, three public consultations were carried out on the EU proposals and on the draft Food Hygiene Regulations and included a restriction on the placing on the market of raw cow''s drinking milk intended for direct human consumption. Scottish Government colleagues within the Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department, the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Scottish Executive Development Department and the Scottish Executive Health Department and the Scottish Parliament were consulted. No adverse comments were received. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245403,"EventID":"S3W-38885","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding its policy allowing the sale of raw cow’s drinking milk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding its policy allowing the sale of raw cow’s drinking milk.","AnswerText":"The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in Scotland is responsible for food safety and standards and for the legislation controlling the sale of raw milk. The agency is a non-ministerial UK government department operating at arm''s length from ministers. It is governed by a board appointed to act in the public interest. Its policy remit relates to food and feed safety and is wholly devolved. In this context, for the delivery of its functions the agency has responsibilities to the Westminster and devolved administrations. The FSA board considered the position with respect to the sale of raw milk in the four UK countries in 2005 during its wider consideration of the implementation of the consolidated EU food hygiene legislation, which allows member states to introduce or maintain national rules restricting the placing on the market of raw milk for direct human consumption. The FSA board agreed that while there was no risk basis for different approaches in the four UK countries with regards to raw drinking milk, it recognised the different historical patterns of consumption and consumer preference across the UK which was reflected in the differing views of stakeholders received during formal consultations, and noted the recommendations for each country. The recommendation for Scotland reflected the wish of Scottish Ministers, reconfirmed to the agency in 2004, to maintain and extend the ban so that all raw drinking milk sales in Scotland would be prohibited. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245404,"EventID":"S3W-38886","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many milk-related (a) illnesses and (b) deaths there have been in each year since 1980.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many milk-related (a) illnesses and (b) deaths there have been in each year since 1980.","AnswerText":"The agency responsibility for this policy started from 2000 and therefore we do not hold all of the data requested for each year since 1980. However, the data which is available to the Food Standards Agency suggests that the numbers of cases of foodborne disease associated with the consumption of milk and cream have decreased significantly since the ban was introduced in 1983. Published studies carried out in Scotland between 1980 and 1985 (Sharp JCM., Milk and dairy products, PHLS Microbiological Digest, 1986; 3: 28-9.) indicated that, in 1981, there were 782 cases of food-borne disease associated with all milk and cream, including three deaths, and in 1982, there were 539 cases, including one death. From 1983 (when the ban on the sale of raw milk was introduced), the number of cases decreased, with 29 cases recorded in 1983, 27 in 1984 and 74 in 1985. The majority of cases recorded during 1983 to 1985 occurred in the farming community. Please see the following table with data from 1980 to 1995. Outbreaks of Foodborne Diseases In Scotland Associated With Raw Milk 1980 to 1995 | Year | Numbers of Outbreaks | Numbers Affected By Illness (Deaths) | | 1980 | 3 | 98 (4) | | 1981 | 8 | 782 (3) | | 1982 | 14 | 539 (1) | | 1983 | 7 | 29 | | 1984 | 5 | 27 | | 1985 | 8 | 74 | | 1986 | 2 | 10 | | 1987 | 5 | 30 | | 1988 | 1 | 4 | | 1989 | 0 | 0 | | 1990 | 2 | 6 | | 1991 | 4 | 17 | | 1992 | 2 | 6 | | The following table illustrates the total number of self-harm incidents recorded as such on the Prisoner Record System broken down by establishment. | Establishment | 2009 | 2010 | | Aberdeen | 10 | 8 | | Addiewell | 24 | 66 | | Barlinnie | 39 | 37 | | Cornton Vale | 106 | 105 | | Dumfries | 10 | 15 | | Edinburgh | 1 | 13 | | Glenochil | 8 | 12 | | Greenock | 7 | 3 | | Inverness | 8 | 13 | | Kilmarnock | 39 | 38 | | SPS Open Estate | 1 | 0 | | Perth | 20 | 34 | | Peterhead | 14 | 13 | | Polmont | 8 | 21 | | Shotts | 13 | 5 | The following is the original answer (published on 1 February 2011); see below. I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The following table illustrates the total number of self-harm incidents recorded as such on the Prisoner Record System broken down by establishment. | Establishment | 2009 | 2010 | | Aberdeen | 10 | 8 | | Addiewell | 24 | 66 | | Barlinnie | 9 | 5 | | Cornton Vale | 41 | 46 | | Dumfries | 9 | 3 | | Edinb","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245406,"EventID":"S3W-38888","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions each prison breached its assessed operational limit in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions each prison breached its assessed operational limit in 2010.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The assessed operational limit (AOL) was last reported in the answer to question S3W-32621 on 15 April 2010. However it has not been actively used for some time. The AOL was introduced in 2008 to assist in managing the consequential risks associated with the pressure on the prison system. It was used to establish the numerical level at which prison management assessed they could safety operate the establishment in the short term. The AOL is a dynamic risk assessment of the number of prisoners beyond which Governors assess there to be unacceptable risks taking into account the health and safety of both prisoners and staff, the need to deliver an acceptable regime, European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) and other minimum requirements All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245407,"EventID":"S3W-38889","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many teeth were extracted in the NHS general dental service setting in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many teeth were extracted in the NHS general dental service setting in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"Records show that in 2009-10 there were 518,685 teeth extracted in the NHS general dental service in Scotland. Source: MIDAS (Management Information and Dental Accounting System). ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245408,"EventID":"S3W-38890","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) under five, (b) five to 18 and (c) over 18 had teeth extracted in the (i) NHS general and (ii) hospital dental service setting in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) under five, (b) five to 18 and (c) over 18 had teeth extracted in the (i) NHS general and (ii) hospital dental service setting in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The information you requested in provided in the following tables. Table 1 Number of Patients in Scotland who had Teeth Extracted in the NHS General Dental Service (GDS) Setting in 2009-10 | Patient age | | 0 - 4 years | 5 - 18 years | Over 18 | | 578 | 55,802 | 251,779 | Source: MIDAS (Management Information and Dental Accounting System). Table 2 Number of patients in Scotland who had a Tooth Extraction procedure carried out in the NHS Hospital Dental Service (HDS) setting in 2009-10 | Patient Age | | 0 - 4 years | 5 - 18 years | Over 18 | | 1,944 | 6,350 | 5,646 | Source: Information Sources Division SMR01. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245409,"EventID":"S3W-38891","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many deaths there were where obesity was mentioned on the death certificate in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many deaths there were where obesity was mentioned on the death certificate in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010.","AnswerText":"There were 196 deaths registered in Scotland in 2009 for which the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code for obesity (E66) was identified as either the underlying cause of death or as one of the factors which contributed to the death, due to obesity or an equivalent term having been mentioned on the death certificate. The corresponding figure for 2010 is not yet available. The provisional total number of deaths registered in Scotland in 2010 will be published by the General Register Office for Scotland (GROS) on 10 March 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245410,"EventID":"S3W-38892","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions resulted from deliberate self-harm by people aged 16 and over in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions resulted from deliberate self-harm by people aged 16 and over in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The number of hospital admissions for patients aged 16 and over with a diagnosis of intentional self-harm for the year 2009-10 was 13,872. Caution is advised when interpreting these figures as the procedures in place for admitting cases of intentional self harm may vary between NHS board areas. The information given in the answer is based on episodes of care which may include multiple episodes for individual patients within the year. This information is based on data from the national Scottish Morbidity Record Scheme 01 (SMR01), which records all inpatient and day case discharges from non-obstetric and non-psychiatric specialties in NHS hospitals in Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245411,"EventID":"S3W-38893","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions resulted from deliberate self-harm by people under 16 in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions resulted from deliberate self-harm by people under 16 in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The number of hospital admissions for patients aged under 16 with a diagnosis of intentional self-harm for the year 2009-10 was 438. Caution is advised when interpreting these figures as the procedures in place for admitting cases of intentional self-harm may vary between NHS board areas. The information given in the answer is based on episodes of care which may include multiple episodes for individual patients within the year. This information is based on data from the national Scottish Morbidity Record Scheme 01 (SMR01), which records all inpatient and day case discharges from non-obstetric and non-psychiatric specialties in NHS hospitals in Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245412,"EventID":"S3W-38894","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the 28-day hospital readmission rate following discharge from a mental health speciality was for patients aged (a) under 18, (b) 18 to 44, (c) 45 to 64 and (d) 65 an","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the 28-day hospital readmission rate following discharge from a mental health speciality was for patients aged (a) under 18, (b) 18 to 44, (c) 45 to 64 and (d) 65 and over in (i) 2009 and (ii) 2010, also broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"The following table shows the latest figures for the number of discharges from mental health hospitals (SMR04) that have a subsequent readmission to a mental health hospital within 28 days. Number of discharges from mental health hospitals in Scotland that have a subsequent readmission within 28 days, and rate of readmission as a percentage of all discharges, year ending 31 March: | NHS Board of Residence / Age Group | 2009 | 2010P | | Number | % of all discharges | Number | % of all discharges | | Ayrshire and Arran | | | | | | Under 18 | * | 16.7 | * | 8.3 | | 18 to 44 | 76 | 13.7 | 71 | 12.8 | | 45 to 64 | 31 | 9.1 | 32 | 9.5 | | 65 and over | 18 | 7.0 | 11 | 4.7 | | Borders | | | | | | Under 18 | - | - | * | 10.0 | | 18 to 44 | 21 | 12.1 | 22 | 13.3 | | 45 to 64 | 23 | 23.0 | 13 | We are, however, introducing a drug and alcohol waiting times database which from 1 April 2011 will accurately capture national alcohol treatment waiting times. Data from this system will be published for the first time at the end of September 2011 and will provide a breakdown of data at both NHS board and alcohol and drug partnership level. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245414,"EventID":"S3W-38896","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) average and (b) maximum waiting time is from referral to treatment for alcohol addiction, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) average and (b) maximum waiting time is from referral to treatment for alcohol addiction, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38895 on 28 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245415,"EventID":"S3W-38897","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will reappraise the guidance on infant feeding regarding the introduction of other foods.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will reappraise the guidance on infant feeding regarding the introduction of other foods.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government endorses, and adopts as policy, the World Health Organization''s guidance recommending exclusively breastfeeding for an infant''s first six months, and the introduction of solids, for all infants, at around six months. This is not only Scottish Government and World Health Organization policy but the consensus of international clinical opinion. Therefore we have no plans to reappraise current guidance on infant feeding, however we will continue to monitor emerging evidence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245416,"EventID":"S3W-38898","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the proceeds of the proposed large retail supplement will be accounted for in the local government budget line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the proceeds of the proposed large retail supplement will be accounted for in the local government budget line.","AnswerText":"The Parliament voted on 2 February 2011 that nothing further be done under the regulations that would have introduced the large retail property supplement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245417,"EventID":"S3W-38899","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the First Minister’s statement that the £30 million proceeds from the proposed large retail supplement could fund 1,000 nurses is accurate.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the First Minister’s statement that the £30 million proceeds from the proposed large retail supplement could fund 1,000 nurses is accurate.","AnswerText":"The First Minister''s statement was accurate. A newly qualified nurse would currently make £21,176 per annum in basic pay. In order to calculate total cost, it is necessary to add 33.6% to this figure to represent both employer on-costs and additional payments which nurses are eligible for such as unsocial hours supplements. This then gives a figure of £28,291 which divides into £30 million 1,060 times. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245418,"EventID":"S3W-38900","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by local authority area of the number of jobs associated with each of the categories set out in figure 2.2 of Energy in Scotland: A Co","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by local authority area of the number of jobs associated with each of the categories set out in figure 2.2 of Energy in Scotland: A Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics and Information, December 2010","AnswerText":"The low carbon environmental goods and services data in figure 2.2 of the Energy in Scotland report provides an estimate of low carbon jobs by sector at a national level or by local authority at an aggregated level. The methodology that underpins the data in figure 2.2 is, however, not designed for sectoral interrogation at a local authority level. More detail on the methodology and content of the data in figure 2.2 of the Energy in Scotland report will be available from the Scottish low carbon environmental goods and services sector study, which is currently being finalised and will be published prior to the dissolution of the Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245419,"EventID":"S3W-38901","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by local authority area of sales of low-carbon and environmental goods and services, as set out in figure 2.4 of Energy in Scotland: A","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by local authority area of sales of low-carbon and environmental goods and services, as set out in figure 2.4 of Energy in Scotland: A Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics and Information, December 2010","AnswerText":"The low carbon environmental goods and services data in figure 2.4 of the Energy in Scotland report provides an estimate of low carbon sales by sector at a national level or by local authority at an aggregated level. The methodology that underpins the data in figure 2.4 is, however, not designed for sectoral interrogation at a local authority level. More detail on the methodology and content of the data in figure 2.4 of the Energy in Scotland report will be available from the Scottish low carbon environmental goods and services sector study, which is currently being finalised and will be published prior to the dissolution of the Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245420,"EventID":"S3W-38902","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide figures for the Scottish share of UK (a) crude oil, (b) gas and (c) coal production, as set out in figures 3.1, 3.2 and 3.4 of Energy in Scotland:","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide figures for the Scottish share of UK (a) crude oil, (b) gas and (c) coal production, as set out in figures 3.1, 3.2 and 3.4 of Energy in Scotland: A Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics and Information, December 2010","AnswerText":"Official statistics on the Scottish share of UK (a) crude oil and (b) gas are not available. However, research carried out by Alex Kemp and Linda Stephen from the University of Aberdeen provides estimates of a hypothetic Scottish share of production, expenditure and revenues from the UK Continental Shelf based on a detailed financial model of the North Sea oil and gas industry. This research has been used in Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland and is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2008/06/UKContinentalShelfRevenue. A full disaggregation of annual coal production is available from the Coal Authority website at: http://www.coal.gov.uk/publications/miningtechnology/index.cfm. For ease of reference a Scottish disaggregation of the coal production statistics provided in Figure 2.4 of the Energy in Scotland report is as follows; In the period from April 1999 to March 2000 Scotland''s share of total UK coal production was 23.8%; In the period from January 2009 to December 2009 Scotland''s share of total UK coal production was 34.9%. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245421,"EventID":"S3W-38903","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of (a) UK and (b) Scottish coal production, as set out in figure 3.4 of Energy in Scotland: A Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics and Information, De","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of (a) UK and (b) Scottish coal production, as set out in figure 3.4 of Energy in Scotland: A Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics and Information, December 2010, was related to (i) underground and (ii) opencast mining","AnswerText":"A full disaggregation of annual coal production is available from the Coal Authority website at: http://www.coal.gov.uk/publications/miningtechnology/index.cfm. For ease of reference the relevant proportion of UK and Scottish coal production attributable to both surface and underground mining is reported below. (a) The UK (April 1999 to March 2000): (i) Surface mining accounted for 43.2% of UK coal production. (ii) Underground mining accounted for 56.8% of UK coal production. (a) The UK (January 2009 to December 2009): (i) Surface mining accounted for 56.4% of UK coal production. (ii) Underground mining accounted for 43.6% of UK coal production. (b) Scotland (April 1999 to March 2000): (i) Surface mining accounted for 87.8% of Scottish coal production. (ii) Underground mining accounted for 12.2% of Scottish coal production. (b) Scotland (January 2009 to December 2009): (i) Surface mining accounted for 100% of Scottish coal production. (ii) Underground mining accounted for 0% of Scottish coal production. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245422,"EventID":"S3W-38904","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the value of coal production (a) has been in each of the last 10 years and (b) is forecast to be in each of the next 10 years","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the value of coal production (a) has been in each of the last 10 years and (b) is forecast to be in each of the next 10 years","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. However historic estimates of the volume of coal production in both Scotland and the UK can be found at the Coal Authority website at: http://www.coal.gov.uk/publications/miningtechnology/index.cfm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245423,"EventID":"S3W-38905","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the peak demand for electricity consumption (a) has been in each of the last 10 years and (b) is forecast to be in each of the next 10 years","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the peak demand for electricity consumption (a) has been in each of the last 10 years and (b) is forecast to be in each of the next 10 years","AnswerText":"Regular monitoring and forecasting of peak electricity demand is the responsibility of the National Grid and annual (historical) figures for the UK are published by the Department for Energy and Climate Change. But forecast information is not held centrally. From 2005, following the introduction of the British Electricity Trading and Transmission Arrangements, official figures for Scotland are not available separately. Information before then is listed in the following table: | Year | Simultaneous Maximum Load Met (MW) | Date | | UK | Scotland | | 2009 | 60,231 | - | 7 January 2010 | | 2008 | 60,289 | - | January 2009 (no specific date) | | 2007 | 61,527 | - | 17 December 2007 | | 2006 | 59,071 | - | 23 January 2007 | | 2005 | 61,697 | - | 29 November 2005 | | 2004 | 61,013 | 5,579 | 13 December 2004 | | 2003 | 60,501 | 5,909 | 8 December 2003 | | 2002 | 61,717 | 5,688 | 10 December 2002 | | 2001 | 58,589 | 5,504 | January 2001 (no specific date) | | 2000 | 58,452 | 5,861 | December 1999 (no specific date) Regular dialogue is also maintained on the administration of Freight Mode Shift Grant applications which involve cross-border flows. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245425,"EventID":"S3W-38907","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to assess whether the grant criteria and process for applications for freight facilities grants were unnecessarily restrictive and deterred appli","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to assess whether the grant criteria and process for applications for freight facilities grants were unnecessarily restrictive and deterred applications","AnswerText":"The freight facilities grant (FFG) is a state aid and the scheme required the approval of the European Commission. The scheme rules are the same across Great Britain. We, the Department for Transport and the Welsh Assembly Government held a joint review of the Freight Mode Shift Grant schemes over the period from summer 2007 to summer 2009. No changes were made to the freight facilities grant scheme as a result. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245426,"EventID":"S3W-38908","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made as to whether state aid issues have arisen in relation to individual freight facilities grants","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made as to whether state aid issues have arisen in relation to individual freight facilities grants","AnswerText":"Freight facilities grant (FFG) is a state aid. The scheme was therefore notified to the European Commission (EC) in 2001 and notice was received of the scheme''s compliance with the state aid rules later that year. The EC approval noted that the aid as proposed was proportional and that it did not unduly distort competition. We have ensured that funding distributed under the scheme has been consistent with the terms of the approval given by the EC. The application process obtains information about sources of financial assistance so that any additional state aid issues can be addressed during the application assessment process. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245427,"EventID":"S3W-38909","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the Freight Transport Association and what matters were discussed","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the Freight Transport Association and what matters were discussed","AnswerText":"My officials last met the Freight Transport Association on 26 January 2011 to discuss winter resilience, the Rosyth to Zeebrugge freight service and other matters of mutual interest. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245428,"EventID":"S3W-38910","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the budget for freight facilities grants has been underspent in each of the last three years and to what projects this underspend was reallocated","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the budget for freight facilities grants has been underspent in each of the last three years and to what projects this underspend was reallocated","AnswerText":"The following table shows the underspend in the FFG budget for the financial years 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-10. FFG Budget and Spend (£ Million) | Year | Budget | Spent | Underspend | | 2007-081 | 12.9 | 2.2 | 10.9 | | 2008-09 | 13.1 | 3.9 | 9.2 | | 2009-101 | 13.1 | 0.7 | 12.8 | Note: 1. Where projects do not deliver their commitments, recoveries are effected. £235,935 was recovered in 2007-08 and £407,594 in 2009-10. The unused funds were managed as part of the Scottish Government financial outturn within its overall budgetary resources. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245429,"EventID":"S3W-38911","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received from (a) industry and (b) environmental organisations regarding the future of freight facilities grants","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received from (a) industry and (b) environmental organisations regarding the future of freight facilities grants","AnswerText":"We have received representations from the following industry organisations either directly or through their MSPs: Freight on Rail; Ailsa Horizons Ltd; Deltix; Rail Freight Group; Highland Spring Ltd ; Freight Transport Association (FTA)*; Ferguson Transport (Spean Bridge) Ltd; Direct Rail Services Ltd (DRS), and HITRANS. Note: * Albatrans UK Ltd, Russell Logistics, The Erdington Group, The Malcolm Group, JF Hillebrand Scotland Ltd, Scottish Council for Development and Industry and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport were co-signatories of the FTA letter. We have received representations from the following environmental organisations either directly or through their MSPs: Campaign for Better Transport and Transform Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245430,"EventID":"S3W-38912","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many foreign nationals are serving sentences in Scottish prisons.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many foreign nationals are serving sentences in Scottish prisons.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: There are currently 153 convicted foreign nationals in Scottish Prisons. Data correct as of 24 January 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245431,"EventID":"S3W-38913","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many foreign nationals are in Scottish prisons pending deportation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many foreign nationals are in Scottish prisons pending deportation.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: There are currently 20 foreign nationals in Scottish Prisons pending deportation. Information provided correct as of 24 January 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245432,"EventID":"S3W-38914","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it has received from the Migration Impacts Fund and how this has been spent, in each of the last three years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it has received from the Migration Impacts Fund and how this has been spent, in each of the last three years.","AnswerText":"In line with Barnett consequentials, the Scottish Government received transfers of £4.153 milliom funding for the Migration Impacts Fund (2009-11). Consequentials accrue to the Scottish Block as a whole and it is for ministers to decide how the additional spending should be allocated. I can confirm that this funding went towards priorities within the Scottish Budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245433,"EventID":"S3W-38915","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the minister of state responsible for immigration and what matters were discussed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the minister of state responsible for immigration and what matters were discussed.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not met with the UK Minister of State for Immigration Damian Green, despite our repeated requests for a meeting. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245434,"EventID":"S3W-38916","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with (a) BAA and (b) the UK Government regarding BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow Airport from April 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with (a) BAA and (b) the UK Government regarding BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow Airport from April 2011.","AnswerText":"I met with BAA''s Chief Executive Officer, Colin Matthews, on 19 January 2011 when I reiterated the Scottish Government''s concerns about the impact of the new charging structure on Scottish services to Heathrow. I also wrote on 20 January 2011 to the Secretary of State for Transport, Philip Hammond MP, requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the issue. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245435,"EventID":"S3W-38917","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it envisages the impact on air services to and from Scotland will be of BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow Airport from April 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it envisages the impact on air services to and from Scotland will be of BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow Airport from April 2011.","AnswerText":"Removing the domestic charging structure at Heathrow Airport and including domestic air services within a European charge will lead to increased charges for domestic access to Heathrow. We are concerned that this will be a disincentive to airlines to use Heathrow for domestic services and will place increased pressure on those existing services from Scottish airports. We do not accept that costs associated with international travel, including customs and immigration control, should be attributed to domestic services. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245436,"EventID":"S3W-38918","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the possibility of a reduction in air services to and from Scotland as a result of BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the possibility of a reduction in air services to and from Scotland as a result of BAA’s plans to increase domestic passenger charges at Heathrow Airport from April 2011.","AnswerText":"In the absence of a high speed rail alternative for the foreseeable future, any reduction in Scotland''s connections to Heathrow Airport would be unwelcome. Heathrow''s position as a global hub continues to be very important for Scottish business and for inbound tourism. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245437,"EventID":"S3W-38919","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the need for competition between providers of air services to and from Scotland via Heathrow Airport.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the need for competition between providers of air services to and from Scotland via Heathrow Airport.","AnswerText":"Where there is a sustainable market, competition can be beneficial, resulting in lower air fares for the consumer. We believe that such a market exists for air services from Scotland to Heathrow. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245438,"EventID":"S3W-38920","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what studies have been carried out in relation to the use of neonicotinoid insecticides and their effects.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what studies have been carried out in relation to the use of neonicotinoid insecticides and their effects.","AnswerText":"A wide range of studies on neonicotinoids are submitted as part of the pesticide approval process. Additional research has been carried out by government and other organisations. There are currently three Defra-funded research and development projects on the use of neonicotinoids. These are (a) potential impacts of synergism between systemic seed treatments and sprayed fungicides in crops, (b) assessing the impact of guttation on non-target arthropods, design of extended laboratory and field studies, and (c) assessing the impact of pesticides on honeybee brood evaluation of effects using the OECD Guidance document 75. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245439,"EventID":"S3W-38921","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance has been issued to Scottish National Heritage and the Scottish Agricultural College in relation to the use of neonicotinoid insecticides.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance has been issued to Scottish National Heritage and the Scottish Agricultural College in relation to the use of neonicotinoid insecticides.","AnswerText":"No specific guidance on the use of neonicotinoid insecticides has been issued to Scottish Natural Heritage or the Scottish Agricultural College. However, there is extensive guidance on the appropriate use of pesticides in the Pesticides Code of Practice for using plant protection products in Scotland. This is a practical guide for pesticide users and also refers to the various pieces of legislation covering the use of plant protection products. The code is aimed at pesticide users within agriculture, horticulture, forestry and the amenity sectors. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245440,"EventID":"S3W-38922","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what outcome measures will be used to test the new model of care for dementia patients introduced in the Strathmore area by the Perth and Kinross Community Health Partner","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what outcome measures will be used to test the new model of care for dementia patients introduced in the Strathmore area by the Perth and Kinross Community Health Partnership.","AnswerText":"Outcome measures as part of the Strathmore model of care for dementia patients are to be finalised soon and are likely to align with the five key challenges identified by the National Dementia Strategy. Perth and Kinross is one of three dementia demonstrator sites receiving national funding and improvement support. The sites will agree common core outcome measures, to align with the national dementia benchmarking framework which will be finalised in Spring 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245441,"EventID":"S3W-38923","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3538,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":13,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-20T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, in his official capacity, has had direct involvement with the Gourock to Dunoon ferry service tender by","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, in his official capacity, has had direct involvement with the Gourock to Dunoon ferry service tender by way of (a) meetings or (b) correspondence with (i) the selected bidders or (ii) Calmac.","AnswerText":"The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning has had no involvement in his official capacity. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245442,"EventID":"S3W-38924","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions drivers prosecuted for road traffic offences that would normally result in a ban have not received a ban in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions drivers prosecuted for road traffic offences that would normally result in a ban have not received a ban in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"The available information on the number of driving offences for which persons were disqualified from driving is given in table 25 of the Criminal Proceedings in Scottish Courts 2007-08 statistical bulletin, table 6 of the motor vehicle offences 2008-09 additional datasets and table 5 of the motor vehicle offences 2009-10 additional datasets. These are available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/04/27103325/0; http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/Datasets/MV0809, and http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/Datasets/MV0910. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245443,"EventID":"S3W-38925","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1921,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38364 by Michael Russell on 19 January 2011, whether it will provide the information that it holds regarding the funding of Scots l","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38364 by Michael Russell on 19 January 2011, whether it will provide the information that it holds regarding the funding of Scots language education in each year since 1990.","AnswerText":"There have been Scots language education initiatives since 1990, funded by Government or Scottish public bodies. The Scottish Government does not have a full list of these initiatives nor the funding attached to them. We provided Learning and Training Scotland with £690,500 in 2008-09, £690,500 in 2009-10 and £600,000 in 2010-11 to produce support resources for Literacy and Numeracy, of which Scots is part. Scottish Language Dictionaries received £200,000 and the Scots Language Centre received £70,000 in both 2009-10 and 2010-11. This was as a result the Scottish Government assuming responsibility for direct funding of these two organisations in February 2009, after its current allocations of funding from the Scottish Arts Council expired in 2009. We spent £19,500 on research costs for the Audit of Current Scots Language Provision in Scotland published in January 2009. We spent a further £16,900 on research costs for the Public Attitudes Towards the Scots Language survey which explored public perceptions of, and attitudes towards, the Scots language amongst the general public of Scotland, which was published in January 2010. The Scottish Government has provided the National Trust for Scotland with a grant of £8.6 million to develop £21 million Robert Burns Birthplace Museum which was officially opened on 21 January this year. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245444,"EventID":"S3W-38926","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on the reasons for the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator not considering a request from the Ayrshire branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Socie","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on the reasons for the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator not considering a request from the Ayrshire branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society to defer approval of the new proposed UK constitution for the society.","AnswerText":"None. This is an operational matter for the independent charity regulator. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245445,"EventID":"S3W-38927","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance and regulations are in place for contractors engaged in public construction projects regarding the disposal and recycling of construction waste after constr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance and regulations are in place for contractors engaged in public construction projects regarding the disposal and recycling of construction waste after construction is completed.","AnswerText":"All producers of waste, including construction companies, are required to comply with the duty of care set out in section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This places a legal responsibility on them to ensure that they manage waste without harming the environment or human health. Construction projects can impact on the environment in a number of ways, including emissions to air, land contamination, noise pollution and discharges to water, as well as waste disposal. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) provides a wide range of advice and information to the construction industry in order to help those undertaking construction projects better understand those impacts and their statutory environmental obligations. SEPA will, as part of its input into the planning process for large-scale construction projects, routinely suggest that planning authorities include a condition in their approvals that the applicant develop and implement a site waste management plan. This is intended to encourage contractors to explore the adoption of procurement and operational practices that will minimise waste produced on-site and maximise the recycling and recovery of any waste which is produced. SEPA offers a range of guidance to assist contractors with the production of site waste management plans and other recycling and recovery opportunities. Comprehensive information can be found in the Customer Information section of the SEPA website: http://www.sepa.org.uk/customer_information/construction.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245446,"EventID":"S3W-38928","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are in place regarding the disposal of construction or refurbishment waste from Commonwealth Games venues.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are in place regarding the disposal of construction or refurbishment waste from Commonwealth Games venues.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has recently set targets for achieving a zero waste society, not just for household waste, but also for the construction and commercial sectors. Zero waste is about making the most of all the resources we use and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games can act as an exemplar in all aspects of waste prevention, reduction and recycling. The Scottish Government will work with games delivery partners to reduce waste associated with the staging of the 2014 games to a minimum. Our commitment to sustainability was key to Glasgow''s successful bid for the 2014 games, with over 70% of venues in place when the bid was won. All of the new construction (except the alterations at Hampden Park) is being led by Glasgow City Council which has recently prepared a sustainable procurement policy, which uses procurement as a lever to reduce waste to landfill. The council has a sustainability plan which has a low waste games as one of its eight key themes and is working with constructors to implement its policies. The overlay required to upgrade existing venues to games standards will typically be temporary and will generate minimal waste. The main constructor within the consortium which is building the athletes'' village is a member of the Considerate Constructors scheme which requires that companies place emphasis on environmental factors such as sustainable procurement and waste minimisations including the hierarchy of avoid, reduce, reuse and recycle. The City Legacy consortium has drawn up a Constructors Environmental Management Plan which includes targets to re-use 80% of all cut materials, recycle 100% of all foundations and concrete and re-use 100% of road capping. The construction phase of the athletes'' village began with remediation of the contaminated land from its industrial past. A special cell was created at the Cathkin landfill site to deal with soil containing non-hazardous asbestos found on site. A soil washing machine was also brought on site and of the 140,000m3 excavated soil over 70% has been remediated and reused. The organising committee is currently developing its design to upgrade and temporarily transform Hampden Park. Environmental and sustainability issues will be addressed as part of the design process. Work is scheduled to begin at Hampden in October 2013. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245447,"EventID":"S3W-38929","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will make a formal representation to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee inquiry into the common agricultural policy.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will make a formal representation to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee inquiry into the common agricultural policy.","AnswerText":"Scottish Government officials received a communication from the House of Commons Select Committee on Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) on 7 December 2010 inviting us to submit written evidence to their Inquiry. Later that month we submitted The Road Ahead for Scotland a copy of the final report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland which had been published the previous month. The Scottish Government has not taken a detailed formal position on the report''s recommendations at this stage pending further analysis and discussion with stakeholders. Government officials also arranged for Brian Pack the Inquiry chairman to give oral evidence to the EFRA Committee on behalf of the Inquiry. The EFRA Committee informed Scottish Government on 17 January 2011 that under its rules the Pack report has to be treated as background information rather than evidence because it is previously published material, and invited us to submit a statement written specifically for the Committee. That afternoon we confirmed to the Committee we would submit a written statement, which we did on 25 January. On 19 January, The Scotsman newspaper contacted the Scottish Government seeking clarification of the Scottish Government''s engagement with the EFRA Committee and received the information detailed above. Despite this information on 20 January, The Scotsman published an article claiming incorrectly that Scotland will not have any formal representation in the EFRA Committee''s inquiry. We understand the committee will take our statement as formal written evidence in addition to the background information in the Pack Inquiry report and the oral evidence from Mr Pack. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245448,"EventID":"S3W-38930","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reasons are for its failure, as reported in The Scotsman on 20 January 2011, to make a valid submission to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affai","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reasons are for its failure, as reported in The Scotsman on 20 January 2011, to make a valid submission to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee inquiry into the common agricultural policy.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38929 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245449,"EventID":"S3W-38931","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions have taken place between its officials and representatives of the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee regarding its inquiry in","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions have taken place between its officials and representatives of the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee regarding its inquiry into the common agricultural policy.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38929 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245450,"EventID":"S3W-38932","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive at what point it (a) became aware of the planned inquiry into the common agricultural policy by the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, (b) se","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive at what point it (a) became aware of the planned inquiry into the common agricultural policy by the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, (b) sent its submission to the inquiry and (c) was told that the submission was invalid.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38929 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245451,"EventID":"S3W-38933","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken, or will undertake, a review of the proceedings that have reportedly resulted in a lack of formal representation by it to the House of Commons E","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken, or will undertake, a review of the proceedings that have reportedly resulted in a lack of formal representation by it to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee inquiry into the common agricultural policy.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38929 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245452,"EventID":"S3W-38934","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will establish a unit to monitor the implementation of the living wage in the public sector.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will establish a unit to monitor the implementation of the living wage in the public sector.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government will monitor the implementation of the living wage in relation to those bodies covered by the Scottish Government Public Sector Pay Policy 2011-12 through its pay remit process. Pay across the rest of the public sector in Scotland is determined through separate processes outwith the Public Sector Pay Policy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245453,"EventID":"S3W-38935","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason local authority employees are excluded from its living wage commitment.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason local authority employees are excluded from its living wage commitment.","AnswerText":"Local government pay is a matter for local government and the appropriate unions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245454,"EventID":"S3W-38936","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to increase the living wage for its employees on an annual basis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to increase the living wage for its employees on an annual basis.","AnswerText":"The pay of staff below Senior Civil Service level in the Scottish Government is determined within the parameters set by Public Sector Pay Policy. The Scottish Government''s Public Sector Pay Policy for 2011-12 requires employers covered by its provisions to introduce a Scottish living wage, currently set at £7.15 per hour. All full-time staff in the Scottish Government are currently paid above that rate. Any revision to the Scottish living wage set out in future Public Sector Pay Policy will be taken into account by the Scottish Government in determining minimum rates of pay. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245455,"EventID":"S3W-38937","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to encourage living wage agreements in the private and voluntary sectors.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken to encourage living wage agreements in the private and voluntary sectors.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is supportive of living wage commitments in the private and voluntary sectors. Our Public Sector Pay Policy for 2011-12 requires organisations covered by the policy to pay their employees a living wage of £7.15 per hour - the current living wage level proposed by the Scottish Living Wage Campaign. However, beyond the levels set by the National Minimum Wage, which is reserved to the UK Government, pay is a matter for organisations, their employees and trade unions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245456,"EventID":"S3W-38938","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what private sector employers it has met to discuss the implementation of a living wage policy and when.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what private sector employers it has met to discuss the implementation of a living wage policy and when.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is supportive of living wage commitments in the private and voluntary sectors. Beyond the levels set by the National Minimum Wage, which is reserved to the UK Government, private sector pay is a matter for companies, their employees and Trade Unions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245457,"EventID":"S3W-38939","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will set out how it is “maximising income within existing powers”, as referred to Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will set out how it is “maximising income within existing powers”, as referred to Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government described its plans for maximising income in Scotland''s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 and the supporting documentation. This includes the proposal to use our powers to help increase resources in 2011-12 by increasing business rates paid by the largest retail properties, including supermarkets and out-of-town retail parks. We will seek parliamentary support for our proposal shortly. In addition, we are maximising receipts from the sale of surplus land and buildings. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245458,"EventID":"S3W-38940","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has made an assessment of the impact on households in Scotland of the changes made by the UK Government to the housing benefit system.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has made an assessment of the impact on households in Scotland of the changes made by the UK Government to the housing benefit system.","AnswerText":"As well as contributing to the UK Government''s Housing Benefit impact study for the UK, we have carried out a Scotland specific assessment. The findings are set out in the paper entitled Housing Benefit changes: Scottish Impact Assessment, which is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/supply-demand/chma/marketcontextmaterials/hbchangesscottishimpact/. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245459,"EventID":"S3W-38941","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has made an estimate of how many households in Scotland will be affected by the changes made by the UK Government to the housing benefit system and what propor","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has made an estimate of how many households in Scotland will be affected by the changes made by the UK Government to the housing benefit system and what proportion of households will be worse off.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has carried out an assessment in our paper Housing Benefit changes: Scottish Impact Assessment which estimates that, as a result of the initial tranche of reforms to be introduced this April, 55,000 households claiming Local Housing Allowance in the private rental sector could be directly adversely affected losing an average of £10 per week. This represents around 2.4% of all households in Scotland and 97% of households claiming Local Housing Allowance. The impact of all the Department for Work and Pensions measures, including changes to be introduced later that impact on other tenures and which may adversely affect many more households, is assessed in the paper, which is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/supply-demand/chma/marketcontextmaterials/hbchangesscottishimpact/. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245460,"EventID":"S3W-38942","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the percentage increase in journeys across the Forth Road Bridge has been since the removal of tolls.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the percentage increase in journeys across the Forth Road Bridge has been since the removal of tolls.","AnswerText":"Responsibility for the operations of the Forth Road Bridge is a matter for the Forth Estuary Transport Authority (FETA). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245461,"EventID":"S3W-38943","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional CO2 has arisen from the increase in journeys across the Forth Road Bridge since the removal of tolls.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much additional CO2 has arisen from the increase in journeys across the Forth Road Bridge since the removal of tolls.","AnswerText":"Responsibility for the operations of the Forth Road Bridge is a matter for the Forth Estuary Transport Authority (FETA). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245462,"EventID":"S3W-38944","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Universal Home Insulation Scheme will operate in 2011-12 and, if so, how much funding it will provide.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Universal Home Insulation Scheme will operate in 2011-12 and, if so, how much funding it will provide.","AnswerText":"The future of the Supporting Sustainability budget is dependent on the passage of the 2011-12 budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245463,"EventID":"S3W-38945","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many new affordable homes planned to be built through the National Housing Trust initiative will be made available for (a) social rent and (b) owner-occupiers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many new affordable homes planned to be built through the National Housing Trust initiative will be made available for (a) social rent and (b) owner-occupiers.","AnswerText":"All homes provided under the National Housing Trust initiative (NHT) will be classed as private sector lets and will be available for rent at intermediate (mid-market) levels which makes them affordable to households on lower incomes, including those on housing benefit. That means that none of the NHT homes will be (a) offered for social rent through a Scottish secure tenancy or (b) made available for owner-occupiers. However, when the sale of homes is triggered between years five and 10 of the initiative, existing tenants will be given the option to buy their home before it is sold on the open market. Following exit from the initiative, homes could therefore be owner-occupied or available for continued letting. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245464,"EventID":"S3W-38946","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has spent on tackling poverty in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and how much it plans to spend on this in its 2011-12 draft budget.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has spent on tackling poverty in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and how much it plans to spend on this in its 2011-12 draft budget.","AnswerText":"There is no specific budget for tackling poverty. The majority of the social inclusion budget is for tackling poverty. Information on that is set out below, However, a range of other budgets across Scottish Government, including the Fairer Scotland Fund which allocated £435 million from 2008-11 and funding for policy areas such as early years, housing and health inequalities also contribute to tackling poverty. The budgets of local authorities and other delivery partners provide the main funding. As with Scottish Government spend, impact will be made through a wide range of mainstream as well as dedicated services. Social Inclusion Budget (Spring Revision) 2007-08 £7.3 Million 2008-09 £6.8 million 2009-10 £6.7 million 2010-11 £5.2 million. The Social Inclusion budget for 2011-12 in our draft budget is the same as for 2010-11. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245465,"EventID":"S3W-38947","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding will be made available for the Low-cost Initiative for First-Time Buyers scheme in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding will be made available for the Low-cost Initiative for First-Time Buyers scheme in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"As I announced on 19 January 2011, we plan to spend £5 million in 2011-12 on the New Supply Shared Equity with Developers scheme. We also plan to spend up to £2 million on the Open Market Shared Equity scheme, which is demand-led. The open market scheme will be targeted at priority groups such as social renters to help free up social rented housing for those who need it most. In addition, further new funding will be made available for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme, the level of which will depend on the bids received under the planned £50 million competitive funding arrangement. There will also be expenditure in 2011-12 on projects being funded through the Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT) schemes, which have been approved before or during 2010-11. The Scottish Government will be able to confirm the funding associated with these committed projects at the end of April 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245466,"EventID":"S3W-38948","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in establishing a national ecological network outside the area covered by the Central Scotland Green Network and the Glasgow and Clyde Valley ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in establishing a national ecological network outside the area covered by the Central Scotland Green Network and the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network.","AnswerText":"Action 42 of the National Planning Framework 2 (NPF2) Action Plan is to Develop a National Ecological Network potentially encompassing large strategic habitat restoration projects. As with the other actions, information on milestones and progress is available on the Scottish Government''s website. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/planning/National-Planning-Policy/npf/action-plan. The Scottish Government has started work on the NPF2 Monitoring Report as part of its commitment to keeping the framework under review. This will be published in 2011 and will monitor the progress made in implementing NPF2. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245467,"EventID":"S3W-38949","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in identifying candidate large strategic habitat restoration projects, as mentioned in paragraph 96 of the National Planning Framework for Sco","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in identifying candidate large strategic habitat restoration projects, as mentioned in paragraph 96 of the National Planning Framework for Scotland 2.","AnswerText":"RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils are in discussion on the potential for large scale coastal habitat creation on the Inner Forth. SNH, Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, the Central Scotland Green Network and RSPB Scotland have agreed to fund a project officer to undertake their Inner Forth Futurescape Project, which will result in the production of a strategy and delivery plan for landscape scale habitat restoration and management along the Inner Forth. Throughout the Central Scotland Green Network area a suite of integrated habitat network plans are being developed by partnership working between local authorities, SNH, Forestry Commission Scotland and Central Scotland Forest Trust. These will help identify the potential for future projects. Forestry Commission Scotland recently convened a meeting of agencies and environmental organisations to agree how best to co-ordinate future work on landscape scale ecosystem restoration initiatives throughout Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245468,"EventID":"S3W-38950","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the budget allocation for the Irvine Bay regeneration area will reflect the difficulties faced in the local area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the budget allocation for the Irvine Bay regeneration area will reflect the difficulties faced in the local area.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is aware of the challenges that are being faced in North Ayrshire, particularly issues around worklessness. This is why we have already provided £7.8 million to Irvine Bay Urban Regeneration Company (URC) since 2007. We will continue to support Irvine Bay URC in 2011-12 and will announce final funding allocations in due course. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245469,"EventID":"S3W-38951","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether North Ayrshire Council’s allocation to the Irvine Bay regeneration budget is proportionately higher than the allocations of other local authorities to their regen","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether North Ayrshire Council’s allocation to the Irvine Bay regeneration budget is proportionately higher than the allocations of other local authorities to their regeneration budgets.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold official figures on individual local authority budget allocations for regeneration activity. This is a matter for the local authorities concerned. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245470,"EventID":"S3W-38952","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will address regeneration in areas of deprivation in the budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will address regeneration in areas of deprivation in the budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government remains committed to the regeneration of Scotland''s most deprived communities. Despite unprecedented levels of spending cuts from Westminster, we will continue to support a range of regeneration activity in 2011-12. This will include: Support for Scotland''s Urban Regeneration Companies, with priority investment in Clyde Gateway URC to support the delivery of a successful Commonwealth Games; We have set up the new £50 million JESSICA (Joint European Support for Sustainable Investment in City Areas) fund which will begin to invest in projects in key regeneration areas during 2011; The regeneration resources associated with the former Fairer Scotland Fund, which have been retained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement; Support for the contribution made by registered social landlords to the regeneration of communities through our investment in the Wider Role Fund; Continued funding support for tackling vacant and derelict land through our vacant and derelict land fund, and Continued investment in our learning networks to support those working to deliver regeneration to identify, share and apply practice and innovation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245471,"EventID":"S3W-38953","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34012 by Shona Robison on 14 June 2010, whether it will seek to hold a debate on Scotland’s National Dementia Strategy before the d","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34012 by Shona Robison on 14 June 2010, whether it will seek to hold a debate on Scotland’s National Dementia Strategy before the dissolution of the Parliament in March 2011.","AnswerText":"We will seek to hold a debate on Scotland''s National Dementia Strategy before the dissolution of Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245472,"EventID":"S3W-38954","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Moray Council’s grant allocation has reduced from 1.629% of the Scottish budget in 2010-11 to 1.601% in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Moray Council’s grant allocation has reduced from 1.629% of the Scottish budget in 2010-11 to 1.601% in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The present needs-based distribution formula for local government funding is one which has been in place for many years. The formula was reviewed jointly, by the Scottish government and COSLA, in 2009, and it concluded that the existing indicators were reasonable and should be retained and updated for 2011-12. The key changes which have led to the Moray Council''s reduction in share are as a result of the following reasons: Population is the key driver and latest estimates show that the Moray Council''s population for young people aged five to 15 has fallen by 8.2% for 2011-12 compared with those used in the 2010-11 settlement. The Scottish average is a reduction of 4.6%. The Moray Council''s share of the former ring-fenced grants has fallen to 0.98% for 2011-12 compared to 1.27% in 2010-11. This represents a drop of £2.8 million from 2010-11. Again, this is a result of updated needs-based indicators as agreed with COSLA. The Moray Council will receive £11.735 million for Loan Charge Support in 2011-12 compared to £13.611 million 2010-11, a decrease of £1.876 million. This is equivalent to a 13.8% fall in funding compared to the Scottish average of 11.6%. These allocations are based on the council''s outstanding debt and latest interest charges. In allocating the available capital grant the funding allocations for flood prevention schemes that were approved earlier were protected. That is why the Moray Council receives the lowest reduction in its overall capital support of -9.0%, compared to 2010-11, than other councils (Scottish average is -18.0%). It is also why in 2011-12 the Moray Council receives the highest per capita capital funding of any mainland authority and 111% above the Scottish average. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245473,"EventID":"S3W-38955","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding commitment it will provide to local authorities for schemes where a flood prevention order is granted.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding commitment it will provide to local authorities for schemes where a flood prevention order is granted.","AnswerText":"Under the Flood Prevention (Scotland) Act 1961, which was revoked on 24 December 2010 with the coming into force of Part 4 of the Flood Risk Management Act 2009, flood prevention schemes became eligible for flood prevention grant on confirmation by Ministers subject to meeting certain criteria. There are no equivalent provisions for flood protection schemes under the 2009 act. Instead, the Scottish Government provides grant funding to local authorities through the provision of a General Capital Grant. Local authorities have the flexibility and freedom to determine how this grant is used to address local needs and priorities. The distribution of the General Capital Grant includes an element which reflects the need for local authorities to fund flood prevention and coast protection schemes. COSLA has agreed the way the General Capital Grant is currently distributed. To ensure the needs of future flood prevention schemes are reflected in future distributions of the General Capital Grant a review of the flooding element will shortly be undertaken in partnership with COSLA. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245474,"EventID":"S3W-38956","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the funding that it provides to local authorities for flood prevention schemes compares with the 80% of eligible costs provided by the previous administration.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the funding that it provides to local authorities for flood prevention schemes compares with the 80% of eligible costs provided by the previous administration.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government provides grants to local authorities to fund capital investment as a General Capital Grant. Local authorities have the flexibility and freedom to determine how this grant is used to address local needs and priorities. The distribution of the General Capital Grant includes an element which reflects the need for local authorities to fund flood prevention and coast protection schemes. This distribution reflects the need to provide funding for a list of agreed schemes receiving an allocation based on 80% of the cost identified at the time the 2007 settlement was agreed. A further sum is allocated to all local authorities on the basis of known flooding risk. COSLA has agreed the way the General Capital Grant is currently distributed. To ensure the needs of future flood prevention schemes are reflected in future distributions of the General Capital Grant a review of the flooding element will shortly be undertaken in partnership with COSLA. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245475,"EventID":"S3W-38957","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with NHS Lanarkshire regarding the removal of community X-ray facilities in Coatbridge and Cumbernauld.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with NHS Lanarkshire regarding the removal of community X-ray facilities in Coatbridge and Cumbernauld.","AnswerText":"Scottish Government officials remain in close contact with all NHS boards and ministers have been fully briefed on the issue of community radiology services in Lanarkshire. Due to its age, the equipment in Cumbernauld and in Kilsyth can no longer be covered by maintenance contracts. The safety of patients is absolutely paramount, and it would be in breach of national standards if any board was to continue to use equipment in those circumstances. As a result, patients from Cumbernauld and Kilsyth are being referred to the radiology department at Monklands Hospital. That will continue until a full review of radiology services has been completed by the NHS board. No final decisions on the overall review have yet been taken but, as always, I expect the NHS board to progress any proposal for permanent change with the full involvement of patients, the public and other stakeholders. If such a proposal was deemed to constitute major service change, formal public consultation and, ultimately, ministerial approval would be required. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245476,"EventID":"S3W-38958","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what improvements were carried out to the A9 trunk road (a) from May 1979 to May 1997, (b) from May 1997 to May 2007 and (c) since May 2007; what the cost of each was exp","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what improvements were carried out to the A9 trunk road (a) from May 1979 to May 1997, (b) from May 1997 to May 2007 and (c) since May 2007; what the cost of each was expressed in today's terms, and when each improvement was first announced.","AnswerText":"The following table represents the information currently available in Transport Scotland''s records. May 1979 to May 1997 | Scheme | Carriageway Type: Dual, Single or WS2+11 | Total Scheme Cost in December 2010 Prices £ million2 | Date Scheme First Announced3 | | Dornoch Firth Bridge | S | 32.904 | n/a | | Broomhill to Logie Easter | S | 11.41 | n/a | | Dunblane Bypass | D | 21.1 | n/a | | Greenloaning to Blackford | D | 16.74 | n/a | | Dunbeath Bridge | S | 9.71 | n/a | | Kessock Bridge | D | 107.404 | n/a | | Cromarty Bridge | S | 41.404 | n/a | | Longman to Charlestown | D | 5.90 | n/a | | Charlestown to Tore | D | 14.47 | n/a | | Tore to Duncanston | S | 9.18 | n/a | | Alness Bypass | S | 9.12 | n/a | | Evanton Bypass | S | 11.30 | n/a | | The Mound Bridge | S | 7.34 | n/a | | Pitlochry Bypass I | S | 2","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245477,"EventID":"S3W-38959","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will set out a full timetable for the dualling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness also showing construction costs.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will set out a full timetable for the dualling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness also showing construction costs.","AnswerText":"As I confirmed in the Members'' Business debate in the Chamber on the A9 on 20 January 2011, although it would clearly never have been possible to design, authorise, procure and complete major dualling of the A9 in the lifetime of this Parliament, the Scottish Government has committed to dualling the A9 from Perth to Inverness and have put the project into the Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR), so that it is on record as one of our priorities. I also confirmed that dualling this section involves approximately 87 miles of new carriageway and, as the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth made clear during the debate, that requires in-depth planning and design to ensure we deliver the right scheme, taking into consideration all the factors, including environmental constraints, such as the protected Cairngorms National Park. Once these stages have been completed, we can then finalise the timescales for the upgrading of the A9 which will be undertaken in the context of overall affordability and our commitments to the STPR recommendations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245478,"EventID":"S3W-38960","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will upgrade the A9 Moy 2+1 overtaking lane to dual carriageway status following its closure in November 2010 due to safety concerns.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will upgrade the A9 Moy 2+1 overtaking lane to dual carriageway status following its closure in November 2010 due to safety concerns.","AnswerText":"As part of normal procedures, a road safety audit of the A9 Moy improvement was carried out shortly after opening and this identified some driver behaviour which could produce a potentially dangerous situation. The overtaking lane was closed to protect safety and Transport Scotland is currently considering options for resolving the issues identified. The Scottish Government is committed to planning for the dualling of the whole of the A9 between Perth and Inverness and has already announced further improvements. The detail for this work, in terms of design, costs or programmes will be defined in the context of the development of the Strategic Transport Projects Review intervention relating to the upgrading of this trunk road from Dunblane to Inverness and wider funding and resource commitments. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245479,"EventID":"S3W-38961","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the dual carriageway on the A9 at Killiecrankie was constructed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the dual carriageway on the A9 at Killiecrankie was constructed.","AnswerText":"The A9 dual carriageway improvement was opened to traffic in November 1983. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245480,"EventID":"S3W-38962","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the statement by the First Minister’s official spokesman reported on the BBC News website on 30 May 2007 in reference to the Edinburgh trams project that “The gov","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the statement by the First Minister’s official spokesman reported on the BBC News website on 30 May 2007 in reference to the Edinburgh trams project that “The government intends all expenditure planned for these projects or any alterations will continue to be used for public transport projects that tackle congestion, connectivity and journey times in Edinburgh and across Scotland” accurately reflected the Scottish Executive position on the matter.","AnswerText":"In May 2007 we were faced with the budgets set by the outgoing administration. Had the Parliament supported our plans to stop the tram project and use the funds for more pressing transport priorities then we could have easily reallocated budgets and brought forward alternative possibilities such as targeting early dualling opportunities for the A9. It is clear that if the Parliament had not decided in June 2007 that the Scottish Government should fund the Edinburgh Tram project up to £500 million then that would have freed up funding for other transport options, such as significant investment in much needed transport infrastructure improvements on the A9. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245481,"EventID":"S3W-38963","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the reported statement of a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministe","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the reported statement of a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministers would have brought forward alternative budget proposals to target early dualling of the A9” contradicts the reported statement by an official spokesman for the First Minister on 30 May 2007 that “The government intends all expenditure planned for these projects or any alterations will continue to be used for public transport projects that tackle congestion, connectivity and journey times in Edinburgh and across Scotland” and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"No. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38962 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245482,"EventID":"S3W-38964","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the reported statement by a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministers would have brou","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the reported statement by a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministers would have brought forward alternative budget proposals to target early dualling of the A9” accurately reflects the Scottish Executive position on the matter.","AnswerText":"Yes. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38962 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245483,"EventID":"S3W-38965","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, if the reported statement by a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministers would have brought ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, if the reported statement by a spokeswoman from Transport Scotland on 20 January 2011 that “if Parliament had thrown out the trams project, ministers would have brought forward alternative budget proposals to target early dualling of the A9” accurately reflects the Scottish Executive position on the matter, when this position was first announced to the Parliament.","AnswerText":"In his statement to the Parliament in June 2007, Stewart Stevenson MSP, the then Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change, made it clear that the Scottish Government opposed the Edinburgh Tram project which represented a significant risk to Scottish taxpayers money, and that there were other more important priorities for the use of funds on that scale. The full parliamentary statement can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/ORSearch/ReportView.aspx?r=4735&mode=html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245484,"EventID":"S3W-38966","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been budgeted for (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in each of the last fiv","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been budgeted for (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"(a) None. (b) and (c) (i) are as follows: In 2009-10 the Scottish Government''s marketing unit allocation was £10,800,000.00 of which £8,300,000 was spent on a range of advertising activity to support key policy objectives and to help deliver the government''s National Performance Framework outcomes. A further £5,100,000 was spent on related advertising activity by individual directorates. In September 2009, at the time of the 2010-11 draft Budget, I announced that the Scottish Government''s advertising expenditure would be reduced by 50 per cent from 2010-11. My letter to Mr Welsh, Convenor of the Finance Committee, dated 5 August 2010, provided full details of these matters at the time, a copy of which was placed in Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 51458). The Scottish Government advertising and marketing budget is allocated exclusive of VAT. For the period 2005-06 to 2009-10 the budget was capped at £10,800,000. The 2010-11 budget is £6,694,453. The welfare of the Scottish population is a primary responsibility of the Scottish Government. Ensuring people are aware of the services available to them and any legislative changes is vital. This public information is best communicated using the marketing tools available, such as advertising. The recent risk to health from seasonal flu is an example of how marketing is used to communicate and deliver tangible results, 53.8 per cent of people under the age of 65 with a health condition have been vaccinated “ more than ever before in a flu season. The recent extreme winter weather also required the communication of safety messages to Scots across all communities and adverts on local and community radio stations were integral to this. The Scottish Government advertising and marketing spend for 2010-11 will be reconciled and published following the end of the financial year. The Scottish Government''s advertising gross expenditure for the period 2005-06 to 2009-10 is published on the government website, http://www.scotland.gov.uk/About/Directorates/Services-Groups/17963/advertising-marketing/spend. During the period in question there have been three VAT changes (1 December 2008 VAT decreased from 17.5% to 15%, 1 January 2010 VAT increased from 15% to 17.5% and on 4 January 2011 VAT increased from 17.5% to 20%). (c) (ii) (iii) Information on agency and other public body spend is not held centrally by the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245485,"EventID":"S3W-38967","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in each of the last five ye","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38966 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245486,"EventID":"S3W-38968","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been budgeted for (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies for the remainder of 20","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been budgeted for (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies for the remainder of 2010-11.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38966 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245487,"EventID":"S3W-38969","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) image management, (b) advertising and (c) marketing for (i) it, (ii) its agencies and (iii) other public bodies in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38966 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245488,"EventID":"S3W-38972","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding was provided to ScotRail in relation to the Airdrie-Bathgate line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding was provided to ScotRail in relation to the Airdrie-Bathgate line.","AnswerText":"The franchise payment to ScotRail is for delivering the terms of the franchise agreement including the services specified. Airdrie-Bathgate services have been included within the services specified for ScotRail to operate from December 2010. This payment is not broken down by route. The Franchise payment for 2009-10 was £271 million, the budget for the ScotRail franchise for 2010-11 is £315 million and the draft budget for 2011-12 is £295 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245489,"EventID":"S3W-38973","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what agreement was reached with ScotRail regarding the timetable for trains on the Airdrie-Bathgate line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what agreement was reached with ScotRail regarding the timetable for trains on the Airdrie-Bathgate line.","AnswerText":"A service level commitment for new Airdrie-Bathgate services was finalised with ScotRail in December 2009. This reflects the four trains per hour assumption in the business case for Airdrie-Bathgate services. However, a revised introductory hourly timetable was agreed with ScotRail to commence from December 2010 as less rolling stock was available than planned due to delays in the delivery of the new Class 380 trains by Siemens. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245490,"EventID":"S3W-38974","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a service level agreement with ScotRail regarding the Airdrie-Bathgate line and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a service level agreement with ScotRail regarding the Airdrie-Bathgate line and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38973 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245491,"EventID":"S3W-38975","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what average domestic fuel prices (a) have been in each of the last five years and (b) are forecast to be in each of the next five years and what comparable information i","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what average domestic fuel prices (a) have been in each of the last five years and (b) are forecast to be in each of the next five years and what comparable information it has for (i) each of the other component parts of the United Kingdom, (ii) each EU member state and (iii) each OECD country that is not an EU member state.","AnswerText":"Information specifically on fuel prices and comparisons with other countries is not held centrally. However, some of the information requested is available from the following sources: Chapter 6 of the Scottish Government Energy in Scotland Report provides an overview of domestic energy price statistics, including average annual domestic electricity and gas bills for Scotland and England and Wales. The report is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Business/Energy. The underlying energy price statistics within the Energy in Scotland Report are sourced from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), and are available on their website at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/prices/prices.aspx. The DECC website also publishes forecast fuel prices but acknowledges that they are not intended to be detailed forecasts or predictions and should not be released as forecast retail prices since government does not take a view of what prices will be set in competitive global markets. The report is available at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/projections/projections.aspx. Comparisons of fuel prices in EU countries are also published by DECC and are available on their website at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/publications/prices/prices.aspx. OECD estimates of Energy End Use Prices in OECD countries'' are available at: http://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/energy/energy-prices-and-taxes_16096835. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245492,"EventID":"S3W-38976","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what average petrol prices (a) have been in each of the last five years and (b) are forecast to be in each of the next five years and what comparable information it has f","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what average petrol prices (a) have been in each of the last five years and (b) are forecast to be in each of the next five years and what comparable information it has for (i) each of the other component parts of the United Kingdom, (ii) each EU member state and (iii) each OECD country that is not an EU member state.","AnswerText":"The matter is reserved and therefore the information requested is not held centrally by Scottish Government. However, some figures for the UK are produced by the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change, and can be found at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/prices/prices.aspx. Some external organisations also produce information on fuel prices, but these are not official statistics and are not verified by Scottish Government. The AA, for example, publishes a monthly Fuel Price Report, which contains figures for countries and regions of the UK as well as for a range of European and non-European countries. The latest report (January 2011) can be found at: http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/fuel/index.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245493,"EventID":"S3W-38977","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme were made in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme were made in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information centrally. Registered Social Landlords administer New Supply Shared Equity on behalf of the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245494,"EventID":"S3W-38978","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many successful applicants were there for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many successful applicants were there for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2010.","AnswerText":"Between January and September 2010, the number of properties purchased under the New Supply Shared Equity scheme was 145. This information is recorded on the sales log monitoring database from returns completed by registered social landlords administering the New Supply Shared Equity scheme throughout Scotland. Due to the nature of the collection, there can be a time lag between the sale occurring and being recorded on the database. An update to Housing Statistics for Scotland will be published in February 2011 on the Scottish Government website at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics and will include the number of sales for the period September to December 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245495,"EventID":"S3W-38979","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people are expected to receive support from the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people are expected to receive support from the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2011.","AnswerText":"The number of people the Scottish Government will be able to help under New Supply Shared Equity in 2011-12 will depend on the bids received for competitive funding arrangements which were outlined in the Scottish draft budget in November 2010. In addition, the Scottish Government aims to help 200-250 people access homeownership in 2011-12 under the New Supply Shared Equity with Developers Scheme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245496,"EventID":"S3W-38980","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what classes of development a pre-application consultation must be undertaken as specified in the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 and what provisions are made for e","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what classes of development a pre-application consultation must be undertaken as specified in the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 and what provisions are made for each such class.","AnswerText":"All applications for planning permission for national and major developments require pre-application consultation (PAC). National developments are those specified in the annex to the second National Planning Framework (NPF2) and major developments are categorised in the Town and County Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009, links provided below. NPF2: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/07/02105627/0. The Hierarchy Regulations: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2009/51/contents/made. The Hierarchy Regulations specify that development for the extraction of minerals where the area of the site is or exceeds two hectares is a major development. This threshold relates to the area where extraction is proposed. Where an extension is proposed to an existing operation, the threshold only applies to the proposed extension. The statutory requirements for PAC are the same for all national and major developments. Prospective applicants are required to: consult every community council whose area, or part of, is within or adjoins the land where the proposed development is situated; hold at least one public event for members of the public where they can make comments to the prospective applicant proposals. The event must be advertised at least 7 days in advance in a newspaper circulating in the locality of the proposed development. That advert should also specify a timescale and address to which written comments on the proposal can be sent to the prospective applicant, and serve a proposal of application notice on the planning authority. In addition to these mandatory steps, the planning authority can require the prospective applicant to carry out additional pre-application consultation. A report on the pre-application consultation must accompany applications for national and major developments. If an applicant has not complied with the statutory requirements for PAC, or any additional requirements specified by the planning authority, the planning authority can not process the planning application. Further information on PAC can be found in Circular 4/2009 on Development management Procedures at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/07/03153034/0. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245497,"EventID":"S3W-38981","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what pre-application consultation is required under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 for an application for quarrying.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what pre-application consultation is required under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 for an application for quarrying.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38980 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245498,"EventID":"S3W-38982","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what persons must be notified of a pre-application consultation on an application for quarrying.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what persons must be notified of a pre-application consultation on an application for quarrying.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38980 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245499,"EventID":"S3W-38983","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what form a pre-application consultation on an application for quarrying should take under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what form a pre-application consultation on an application for quarrying should take under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38980 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245500,"EventID":"S3W-38984","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action will be taken if a developer has not undertaken the required processes for a pre-application consultation on a planning application under the Planning etc. (S","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action will be taken if a developer has not undertaken the required processes for a pre-application consultation on a planning application under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38980 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245501,"EventID":"S3W-38985","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what organisations must be consulted in a pre-application consultation on a planning application for a new quarry.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what organisations must be consulted in a pre-application consultation on a planning application for a new quarry.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38980 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245502,"EventID":"S3W-38986","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people applied for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow in the last year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people applied for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow in the last year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"Information in the format requested is not available. However, Scottish Government statisticians have been working with COSLA and local authorities on developing a new data collection system that records the eligibility criteria and waiting time of clients receiving a new free personal and nursing care service. The first data from this new collection will be released as Data under development on 29 March 2011. The data under development will provide a breakdown of new applicants for free personal and nursing care services by local authority where this information is available. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245503,"EventID":"S3W-38987","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow were approved in the last year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow were approved in the last year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38986 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245504,"EventID":"S3W-38988","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applicants who qualified for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow received it in the last year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applicants who qualified for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care in Glasgow received it in the last year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38986 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245505,"EventID":"S3W-38989","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applicants for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care are awaiting a decision on their application.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applicants for free (a) personal and (b) nursing care are awaiting a decision on their application.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38986 on 1 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245506,"EventID":"S3W-38990","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 were convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in 2010 and how many (a)","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 were convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in 2010 and how many (a) received a lifetime ban, (b) had their car confiscated, (c) had their car seized and (d) had their licence removed.","AnswerText":"There were no convictions of persons under 25 for causing death through dangerous driving in Lothian and Borders police force area in 2009-10. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245507,"EventID":"S3W-38991","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 convicted of dangerous driving in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in each of the last five years have (a) received a lifetime ban, (b) ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people under 25 convicted of dangerous driving in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in each of the last five years have (a) received a lifetime ban, (b) had their car confiscated, (c) had their car seized and (d) had their licence removed.","AnswerText":"The available information on persons disqualified from driving for dangerous driving in 2005-06 to 2009-10, in the Lothian and Borders police force area, is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Information on the numbers of cars confiscated or seized is not held centrally. Persons Under 25 with a Charge Proved for Dangerous Driving1 in the Lothian and Borders Police Force Area who were Disqualified, from 2005-06 to 2009-10 | | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total Convicted | 64 | 79 | 64 | 61 | 54 | | Of Which Disqualified | 61 | 74 | 53 | 59 | 52 | | Percentage Disqualified | 95.3 | 93.7 | 82.8 | 96.7 | 96.3 | Note: 1. Where main offence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245508,"EventID":"S3W-38992","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many instances of dangerous driving by people under 25 were recorded in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many instances of dangerous driving by people under 25 were recorded in the Lothian and Borders Police force area in 2010.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. The police recorded crime data collected centrally is based on an aggregate return from each of the eight police forces in Scotland and does not include the ages of perpetrators. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245509,"EventID":"S3W-38993","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3901,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":53,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) non-governmental agencies, (b) public bodies and (c) quangos there (i) were in May 2007 and (ii) will be in May 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) non-governmental agencies, (b) public bodies and (c) quangos there (i) were in May 2007 and (ii) will be in May 2011.","AnswerText":"In October 2007, the Scottish Government published a baseline list of 199 national devolved public bodies as part of its simplification programme. We have reduced this to 152. On present plans, this will reduce further to 147 on 1 April 2011 and we have put the necessary arrangements in place to reduce the number of bodies to 115 by the end of 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245510,"EventID":"S3W-38994","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2123,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":32,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Justices of the Peace there were in each sheriffdom in (a) November 2007 and (b) January 2008, broken down by (i) gender and (ii) ethnicity.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Justices of the Peace there were in each sheriffdom in (a) November 2007 and (b) January 2008, broken down by (i) gender and (ii) ethnicity.","AnswerText":"There were some 2,700 Justices of the Peace (JPs) in November 2007, of whom some 2,200 demitted office on 10 December 2007, leaving about 470 remaining JPs in January 2008. This decrease in the number of JPs was a result of reforms to the summary justice system, which saw judicial office being limited to those JPs who sat on the bench, as opposed to merely exercising signing responsibilities. These reforms, unanimously approved by Parliament, formed part of the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007. The JP register held by the Scottish Government is configured in such a way that it cannot provide a historical snapshot of the make-up of the JP population. Furthermore, no ethnicity information on JPs was held centrally prior to December 2007. Since December 2007, however, information on ethnicity and disability has been collected and monitored, particularly in relation to recruitment exercises. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245511,"EventID":"S3W-38995","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2123,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":32,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Justices of the Peace have been appointed since December 2007, broken down by (a) gender and (b) ethnicity.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Justices of the Peace have been appointed since December 2007, broken down by (a) gender and (b) ethnicity.","AnswerText":"There have been 59 new Justices of the Peace (JPs) appointed since December 2007. Details are as follows: (a) Gender | Gender | Number of JPs | % | | Female | 20 | 34 | | Male | 39 | 66 | | Total | 59 | 100 | (b) Ethnicity | Ethnicity | Number of JPs | % | | Black and Minority Ethnic | 3 | 5 | | White | 54 | 92 | | Not Given | 2 | 3 | | Total | 59 | 100 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245512,"EventID":"S3W-38996","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prescriptions for Ritalin have been issued in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prescriptions for Ritalin have been issued in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"Ritalin is one of a number of products containing methylphenidate hydrochloride used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Comprehensive information including the official statistics on the number of items for methylphenidate hydrochloride (including Ritalin), dispensed by community pharmacists and dispensing doctors, can be found on the ISD Scotland website at: www.isdscotland.org/isd/3588.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245513,"EventID":"S3W-38997","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will commence sections 1 to 13 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will commence sections 1 to 13 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010.","AnswerText":"Sections 1 to 13 and Schedule 1 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010 establish provisions for the Scottish Sentencing Council. In light of the extremely tight financial climate, we are currently examining all the options for the establishment of a Sentencing Council, with a view to reducing the costs associated with the Sentencing Council (as estimated in the Financial Memorandum for the Criminal Justice and Licensing Bill). It is not the intention to commence the provisions prior to May 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245514,"EventID":"S3W-38998","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what capital funding it will provide to allow the development of the new mental health inpatient facility in Lochgilphead.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what capital funding it will provide to allow the development of the new mental health inpatient facility in Lochgilphead.","AnswerText":"The development of this project is at an early stage. NHS Highland has recently submitted an initial agreement which is currently being reviewed by the Capital Investment Group within the health directorates. In the context of a 36.5% reduction of available capital, the Scottish Government will be considering the most appropriate method of delivering this important project as quickly as possible. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245515,"EventID":"S3W-38999","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it anticipates construction of the new mental health inpatient facility in Lochgilphead will begin.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it anticipates construction of the new mental health inpatient facility in Lochgilphead will begin.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38998 on 31 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245516,"EventID":"S3W-39000","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will assess whether a local authority has breached the teacher-pupil ratio in primary 1 to 3 requirement.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will assess whether a local authority has breached the teacher-pupil ratio in primary 1 to 3 requirement.","AnswerText":"Discussions are on going with local government as to how the commitment to maintain the 2010 P1 to P3 pupil-teacher ratio will be assessed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245517,"EventID":"S3W-39001","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a statutory requirement for NHS Lothian to hold a consultation regarding its proposal to cease funding homeopathy services and, if so, what this requirem","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a statutory requirement for NHS Lothian to hold a consultation regarding its proposal to cease funding homeopathy services and, if so, what this requirement is.","AnswerText":"The 2004 NHS Reform Act introduced a statutory duty on NHS boards to encourage public engagement in both the planning and development of local services and/or decisions made by the NHS board that would significantly affect the operation of those services. The guidance to the NHS in Scotland on the appropriate level of public and stakeholder engagement for proposed service change is contained in CEL 4 (2010): Informing, Engaging and Consulting People in Developing Health and Community Care Services which can be accessed at: http://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/mels/CEL2010_04.pdf. This guidance is clear that any NHS proposals which are considered to be major must be subject to a period of formal, public consultation and, ultimately, ministerial approval. NHS Lothian has yet to conclude consideration of its proposals for the future of local homeopathic services. I would expect the board to continue to fully engage with all local stakeholders as it further develops its plans. I am aware that Midlothian Community Health Partnership is already making arrangements to undertake a period of public consultation and I would encourage the member to engage with that consultation. As noted above, should the board''s final proposals be considered major service change, they would have to be subject to formal public consultation and ministerial approval. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245518,"EventID":"S3W-39002","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated by (a) it, (b) its agencies and (c) other public bodies to the Capercaillie LIFE Project in each year since 1999 and whether it will pro","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated by (a) it, (b) its agencies and (c) other public bodies to the Capercaillie LIFE Project in each year since 1999 and whether it will provide a breakdown of how the money was spent","AnswerText":"The EC LIFE Project Urgent Conservation Management for Scottish Capercaillie commenced in 2002 and was completed in 2007. Details of contributions by public body contributors to the project are as follows: | Body | Contribution (£000) | | Scottish Government | 85 | | Forestry Commission Scotland | 406 | | Scottish Natural Heritage | 217 | | Cairngorms National Park Authority | 2 | | European Commission LIFE Co-Funding | 2,099 | | Total | 2,809 | Details of expenditure by action is as follows: | Action | (£000) | | Community Engagement, Planning and Monitoring | 349 | | Land Purchase | 1,406 | | Habitat Management | 752 | | Predator Control | 729 | | Project Monitoring, Evaluation and Dissemination | 272 | | Project Management | 690 | | Total | 4,198 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245519,"EventID":"S3W-39003","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-24T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated by (a) it, (b) its agencies and (c) other public bodies to initiatives to support capercaillie conservation other than the Capercaillie ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money has been allocated by (a) it, (b) its agencies and (c) other public bodies to initiatives to support capercaillie conservation other than the Capercaillie LIFE Project in each year since 1999 and whether it will provide a breakdown of how the money was spent","AnswerText":"Details are as follows: | Body | Project | 1999-2000 | 2000-01 | 2001-02 | 2002-03 | 2003-04 | 2004-05 | | | | £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | | Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) | Fence Challenge Fund | | | 69.8 | | | | | Species Action Framework | | | | | | | | UK Biodiversity Species Action Plan - project officer | 51 | | | 61.3 | | | | UK Biodiversity Species Action Plan - other projects contributing action towards meeting targets | 4.7 | 0.4 | 25.4 | 36.9 | 30 | 43.4 | | | Conservation of Capercaillie across Scotland | | | | | | | The size of the national capercaillie population is estimated every six years. The most recent published results come from the 2003-04 survey which estimated the national population to be 1,980 birds (95% confidence limits 1,284 “ 2,758). Scottish Natural Heritage expects to announce the results from the most recent survey, undertaken over the winter of 2009-10, in the coming months. Two forms of annual monitoring are undertaken “ lek counts and brood counts. Lek counts record the peak number of males seen displaying at known lek sites in Spring. These counts provide an indication of the number of displaying males but should not be interpreted directly as population sizes since immature males may not display at traditional sites. Regional data for numbers of lekking male capercaillie recorded at monitored lek sites during the Capercaillie LIFE Project and in 2007 and 2010 are as follows: | Year | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | | | Leks Counted | Males | Leks Counted | Males | Leks Counted | Males | Leks Counted | Males | | Easter Ross | 11 | 23 | 11 | 22 | 11 | 29 | 11 | 27 | | Moray and Nairnshire | 9 | 20 | 9 | 20 | 10 | 22 | 11 | 18 | | Badenoch and Strathspey | 27 | 86 | 24 | 103 | 29 | 129 | 34 | 132 | | Deeside and Donside | 19 | 39 | 19 | 32 | 19 | 35 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245521,"EventID":"S3W-39005","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38473 by Fiona Hyslop on 24 January 2011, whether it will provide the cost of the activity when it is correlated.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38473 by Fiona Hyslop on 24 January 2011, whether it will provide the cost of the activity when it is correlated.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has transferred operational responsibility for the delivery of St Andrew''s Day and Winter Festivals commitments to EventScotland from 2010 onwards. EventScotland will provide the cost of the activity once it has been correlated. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245522,"EventID":"S3W-39007","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost is of the refurbishment of the chemistry laboratory at the Rushton Court forensic science laboratory following the transfer of chemistry posts fro","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost is of the refurbishment of the chemistry laboratory at the Rushton Court forensic science laboratory following the transfer of chemistry posts from Dundee to Glasgow.","AnswerText":"There will be no refurbishment of the chemistry laboratory at Rushton Court, and therefore no cost will be incurred. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245523,"EventID":"S3W-39008","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the gross expenditure by NHS Tayside has been in each year since 2001-02, also expressed at current prices.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the gross expenditure by NHS Tayside has been in each year since 2001-02, also expressed at current prices.","AnswerText":"Net operating costs since 2001-02, including current price estimate: | Year | Net Operating Costs (£ million) | Current Prices (£ million) | | 2001-02 | 472.4 | 600.8 | | 2002-03 | 485.6 | 598.3 | | 2003-04 | 520.5 | 623.7 | | 2004-05 | 568.5 | 662.9 | | 2005-06 | 604.2 | 691.9 | | 2006-07 | 635.2 | 703.8 | | 2007-08 | 678.4 | 730.7 | | 2008-09 | 704.0 | 737.9 | | 2009-10 | 729.2 | 751.8 | During the period disclosed above, there have been several structural and accounting policy changes to NHS boards, which will impact the ˜like-for-like'' comparison between years. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245524,"EventID":"S3W-39009","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budgeted expenditure for NHS Tayside is for 2010-11, also expressed at 2009-10 prices.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budgeted expenditure for NHS Tayside is for 2010-11, also expressed at 2009-10 prices.","AnswerText":"The budgeted net operating costs for NHS Tayside in 2010-11 are £733.5 million. On the basis of current HM Treasury deflator figures, the net operating costs at 2009-10 prices are £711.5 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245525,"EventID":"S3W-39010","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what efficiency savings NHS Tayside has forecast it will have to make in 2010-11, expressed as a percentage.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what efficiency savings NHS Tayside has forecast it will have to make in 2010-11, expressed as a percentage.","AnswerText":"NHS Tayside has forecast efficiency savings of £30.0 million, equivalent to 5.0% of the board''s baseline allocation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245526,"EventID":"S3W-39011","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the uptake for breast screening has been in (a) NHS Tayside and (b) the Dundee Community Health Partnership area, broken down by three year rolling period since 2006","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the uptake for breast screening has been in (a) NHS Tayside and (b) the Dundee Community Health Partnership area, broken down by three year rolling period since 2006 and expressed as a percentage of those eligible.","AnswerText":"Information on uptake rates for breast screening in NHS Tayside is publicly available and published by the Information Services Division at: http://isdscotland.org/isd/1622.html. Information on the uptake rate in the Dundee Community Health Partnership area is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245527,"EventID":"S3W-39012","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the percentage of eligible women screened for cervical cancer has been in (a) NHS Tayside and (b) the Dundee Community Health Partnership area in each year since 200","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the percentage of eligible women screened for cervical cancer has been in (a) NHS Tayside and (b) the Dundee Community Health Partnership area in each year since 2006, also broken down by age group.","AnswerText":"The percentage uptake¹ of women who had a record of a previous screening test taken within the last 3.5 years is in the following table: NHS Tayside, 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2010. | Age Group | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | % Uptake | % Uptake | % Uptake | % Uptake | | 3.5 Years | 3.5 Years | 3.5 Years | 3.5 Years | | 20 to 24 | 53.3 | 51.0 | 56.5 | 56.3 | | 25 to 29 | 65.4 | 63.7 | 67.7 | 67.8 | | 30 to 34 | 73.5 | 72.1 | 74.9 | 74.1 | | 35 to 39 | 77.3 | 76.4 | 79.1 | 78.3 | | 40 to 44 | 80.3 | 79.6 | 81.5 | 80.3 | | 45 to 49 | 79.9 | 79.6 | 81.6 | 81.1 | | 50 to 54 | 80.5 | 79.4 | 80.4 | 79.0 | | 55 to 59 | 78.5 | 79.1 | 79.0 | 77.6 | | 60 to 64 | 50.4 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245528,"EventID":"S3W-39013","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households received compensation during the development of the Airdrie-Bathgate line and how much was awarded.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many households received compensation during the development of the Airdrie-Bathgate line and how much was awarded.","AnswerText":"All aspects of compensation for land and property for the Airdrie-Bathgate rail link are negotiated and paid by Network Rail under The Airdrie-Bathgate Railway and Linked Improvements Act 2007 Compensation Protocol. Details of individual compensation settlements paid under the regulated settlement are not held by Transport Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245529,"EventID":"S3W-39014","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the households awarded compensation during the development of the Airdrie-Bathgate line; the amounts awarded, and the reason for compensation being g","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the households awarded compensation during the development of the Airdrie-Bathgate line; the amounts awarded, and the reason for compensation being given in each case.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39013 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245530,"EventID":"S3W-39015","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38511 by Kenny MacAskill on 24 January 2011, how much has been paid to prisons to hold prisoners beyond the base level in each of t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38511 by Kenny MacAskill on 24 January 2011, how much has been paid to prisons to hold prisoners beyond the base level in each of the last three years, also broken down by establishment, and for what projects the money has been used.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The following table shows the amount paid to Scottish prisons over the last three years for holding prisoners beyond their base level. | Establishment | 2007-08 £ | 2008-09 £ | 2009-10 £ | | Aberdeen | 23,520 | 35,580 | 30,630 | | Barlinnie | 799,960 | 1,751,930 | 1,535,610 | | Cornton Vale | 120,010 | 115,450 | 5,480 | | Dumfries | 20,450 | 34,060 | | | Edinburgh | 135,930 | 197,750 | 45,080 | | Glenochil | | 214,810 | | | Greenock | 44,230 | 218,100 | 45,500 | | Inverness | | 75,560 | 51,630 | | Kilmarnock1 | 1,181,260 | 1,099,641 | 170,400 | | Perth | | 139,750 | | | Polmont | 149,130 | 220,690 | 95,450 | | Shotts | | 7,740 | 3,690 | Note: 1. In the case of Kilmarnock this is the cost of obtaining places above the baseline provided for in the contract. This funding is to compensate prisons for the expenditure associated with holding prisoners in addition to the number they are resourced to hold. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245531,"EventID":"S3W-39016","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3538,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":13,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it will take to help retain BMI’s air service between Glasgow International Airport and London Heathrow Airport.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it will take to help retain BMI’s air service between Glasgow International Airport and London Heathrow Airport.","AnswerText":"We deeply regret BMI''s decision to suspend its service between Glasgow and Heathrow. In recognising the importance of our connections to Heathrow for business and for tourism, I met BAA''s Chief Executive Officer on 19 January 2011 and I reiterated our concerns about the impact of Heathrow''s new charging structure on Scottish services. We do not accept that costs associated with international travel, including customs and immigration control, should be attributed to domestic services accessing Heathrow. I also met separately with Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, Chief Executive Officer of BMI. I have also written to the Secretary of State for Transport asking him to bring all parties together “ BMI, Heathrow and Glasgow “ to preserve this route for Glasgow and for Scotland and I will be making this point again in discussion with him. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245532,"EventID":"S3W-39017","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many public libraries there have been in each year since 1999, broken down by parliamentary constituency.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many public libraries there have been in each year since 1999, broken down by parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"Details on the number of public libraries in Scotland are not available by parliamentary constituency. The Scottish Library and Information Council have brought together the Scottish figures by local authority area from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting (CIPFA). CIPFA figures are only available from 2000 onwards. This information is available in the Libraries open 10+ hours table of the Scottish Library Statistics 2000-10 spreadsheet, a copy of which has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52392) ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245533,"EventID":"S3W-39018","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on new books for libraries in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on new books for libraries in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Library and Information Council has brought together the Scottish figures by local authority area from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting (CIPFA). CIPFA figures are only available from 2000 onwards and relate to books. This information is available in the Book Funds table of the Scottish Library Statistics 2000-10 spreadsheet, a copy of which has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52392). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245534,"EventID":"S3W-39019","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many books have been loaned by libraries in each year since 1999, broken down local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many books have been loaned by libraries in each year since 1999, broken down local authority.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Library and Information Council has brought together the Scottish figures by local authority area from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting (CIPFA). CIPFA figures are only available from 2000 onwards. This information is available in the Book Issues table of the Scottish Library Statistics 2000-10 spreadsheet, a copy of which has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52392) ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245535,"EventID":"S3W-39020","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a proposal to close a primary school that would also close a pre-five unit requires separate statements for the primary and pre-five children where the impact of ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a proposal to close a primary school that would also close a pre-five unit requires separate statements for the primary and pre-five children where the impact of the closure would have a different outcome for the different age groups.","AnswerText":"The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 sets out the consultation process that local authorities must adhere to when proposing the closure of a school, a school-based nursery and a stand alone local authority nursery school. As part of their statutory duties, local authorities must prepare an educational benefits statement which includes its assessment of the likely effects of the proposal on all of the affected pupils. There is however, no requirement to produce separate statements for different age groups. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245536,"EventID":"S3W-39021","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much investment is forecast for improving the Edinburgh-Glasgow via Falkirk High main line as part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much investment is forecast for improving the Edinburgh-Glasgow via Falkirk High main line as part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme.","AnswerText":"The Edinburgh Glasgow Improvements Programme (EGIP) is currently in the design development stages and is planned for completion in 2016. EGIP which includes electrification and infrastructure improvements to the Edinburgh to Glasgow via Falkirk High main line will require an investment of around £1 billion. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245537,"EventID":"S3W-39022","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much investment is forecast for improving the Cumbernauld line as part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much investment is forecast for improving the Cumbernauld line as part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme.","AnswerText":"The Edinburgh Glasgow Improvements Programme (EGIP) is currently in the design development stages and is planned for completion in 2016. EGIP which includes electrification and infrastructure improvements to the Cumbernauld line will require an investment of around £1 billion. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245538,"EventID":"S3W-39023","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to create an additional platform at Croy railway station for new services to Glasgow Queen Street and, if so, what projected investment is needed ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to create an additional platform at Croy railway station for new services to Glasgow Queen Street and, if so, what projected investment is needed to complete the work; when it is likely to be completed, and what additional capacity will be created for new services at Croy station.","AnswerText":"The Edinburgh Glasgow Improvements Programme (EGIP) will require an investment of around £1 billion. This programme of rail projects is currently in the design development stages and is planned for completion in 2016. The provision of a possible turn-back platform at Croy Station is one of the infrastructure enhancements currently being considered by the EGIP project team. In addition to Edinburgh to Glasgow journey time improvements, the new facility if required would enable new additional Glasgow to Croy local services with no diminution in the number of services currently stopping at Croy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245539,"EventID":"S3W-39024","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the investment plans for 2011 are for the Highland main line.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the investment plans for 2011 are for the Highland main line.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38686 answered on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245540,"EventID":"S3W-39025","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider introducing a national planning advice note on the development of large out-of-town retail stores so that local planning officers have access to ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider introducing a national planning advice note on the development of large out-of-town retail stores so that local planning officers have access to national benchmarks.","AnswerText":"Retail Impact and Capacity Assessment is one of the courses offered under the Scottish Government funded training programme for local authority planning officers delivered by the Improvement Service. The course covers the requirement for and purpose of such assessments in determining planning applications for retail developments. We will seek the views of planning authorities, retailers and other stakeholders on what additional advice on large out-of-town retail stores may be appropriate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245541,"EventID":"S3W-39026","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider introducing a national policy to set out criteria for granting supermarkets a non-food retail space as a proportion of total sales area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider introducing a national policy to set out criteria for granting supermarkets a non-food retail space as a proportion of total sales area.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is aware of the need to maintain a level playing field between large retailers and small and medium-sized players in the retail sector, in both the food and non-food segments. The Scottish Government''s proposal for a large retail supplement on business rates for supermarkets and other large retailers had exactly this objective in mind. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245542,"EventID":"S3W-39027","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the conclusions are of its review of the Air Discount Scheme","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the conclusions are of its review of the Air Discount Scheme","AnswerText":"I am pleased to announce today that, following our review, the Scottish Government is now seeking the agreement of the European Commission for continuation of the Air Discount Scheme (ADS) from 1 April 2011 for a further four years. The ADS provides residents of Orkney, Shetland, the Western Isles, Islay, Jura, Caithness and North West Sutherland with a 40% discount on the price of their core air fares. Our analysis concluded that: Over three quarters of the population in the eligible areas are ADS members with around two thirds of those having taken advantage of discounted flights; Over 40% of member users fly more than before the scheme was introduced, nearly 50% fly with the same frequency and 3% are new flyers, and Those on higher incomes tend to use the scheme more frequently than those on lower incomes. Over the next four years, we believe that the scheme can and will make further progress. Whilst the tendency for those on higher incomes to use the scheme reflects a wider pattern in air travel, we will consider ways to improve take-up amongst those in the lower income bands in the interests of fully achieving the scheme''s social aims. With more general improvements in mind, our approach to the commission is also requesting the extension of the scheme to the people of Colonsay in recognition of the transport challenges they face. The Island now has an improved indirect link to Glasgow through the Colonsay/Islay air service and I am sure residents will warmly welcome this development. As a scheme designed to facilitate a better level of social inclusion for individuals in the eligible areas, it is not intended to extend to business-related claims. Ministers have decided that these claims will not attract the discount in future and will shortly be writing to the main public bodies and private sector organisations in the eligible areas to confirm this decision. ","AnswerDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245543,"EventID":"S3W-39028","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will continue to provide funding for Bookbug, the Scottish Book Trust’s Early Years Programme, in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will continue to provide funding for Bookbug, the Scottish Book Trust’s Early Years Programme, in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government greatly values the Scottish Booktrust''s bookgifting programmes for children. We are currently looking at future funding and intend to notify the organisation very shortly of our decision. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245544,"EventID":"S3W-39029","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the items lost or stolen from NHS hospitals and facilities in each year since 2007-08, broken down by (a) date lost or stolen, (b) date reported and ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the items lost or stolen from NHS hospitals and facilities in each year since 2007-08, broken down by (a) date lost or stolen, (b) date reported and (c) value of the item.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not collect information on individual losses or thefts from NHS hospitals and facilities or the dates they are reported but this information should be held on individual NHS board loss registers. The Scottish Government does however obtain a summary report on such losses from boards each year advising of the number of losses and their value and the totals reported are shown in the following table: | NHS Board | Number of Incidents | 2007-08 £ | Number of Incidents | 2008-09 £ | Number of Incidents | 2009-10 £ | | Ayrshire and Arran | 564 | 97,567 | 267 | 51,256 | 267 | 46,259 | | Borders | 7 | 15,000 | 7 | 17,049 | 0 | 0 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 38 | 22,980 | 56 | 66,686 | 24 | 31,530 | | Fife | 158 | 23,463 | 86 | 19,722 | 67 | 16,494 | | Forth Valley | 35 | 11,643 | 77 | 79,879 | 40 | 34,237 | | Grampian | 10 | 20,313 | 11 | 25,774 | 24 | 47,017 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 0 | 0 | 26 | 91,000 | 76 | 252,611 | | Highland | 12 | 3,920<","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245545,"EventID":"S3W-39030","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33340 by Kenny MacAskill on 22 April 2010, how many individuals were successfully prosecuted under section 74 of the Criminal Justi","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33340 by Kenny MacAskill on 22 April 2010, how many individuals were successfully prosecuted under section 74 of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2003 in 2009-10, broken down by procurator fiscal area.","AnswerText":"The latest available information is given in the following table. Persons with a Charge Proved for an Offence where a Religious Aggravator was Recorded by Approximate Procurator Fiscal Area1, 2009-10 | Procurator Fiscal Area | 2008-09 | | Argyll and Clyde | 10 | | Ayrshire | 7 | | Central | 18 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 7 | | Fife | 3 | | Glasgow | 129 | | Grampian | 8 | | Highlands and Islands | 2 | | Lanarkshire | 32 | | Lothian and Borders | 13 | | Tayside | 6 | | Scotland | 235 | Note: 1. Based on a mapping of sheriff and district courts into procurator fiscal areas. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245546,"EventID":"S3W-39031","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-25T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-36115 and S3W-37229 by John Swinney on 21 September and 18 November 2010, when it expects to provide the information requested.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-36115 and S3W-37229 by John Swinney on 21 September and 18 November 2010, when it expects to provide the information requested.","AnswerText":"I shall reply shortly. A copy will be placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 51647). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245547,"EventID":"S3W-39032","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that all patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool receive continuity of care by a GP or ad","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that all patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool receive continuity of care by a GP or advanced nurse practitioner.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission (SPARRA) tool is used to support NHS board and Community Health Partnership healthcare teams in providing proactive, planned and co-ordinated care for patients with frequently changing or complex needs. The Scottish Government''s Long Term Conditions Collaborative is supporting NHS boards to provide appropriate interventions for people who are at most risk of unscheduled admission or readmission. These may include a period of care management by a member of the extended primary and community care team, and the development and sharing of an anticipatory care plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245548,"EventID":"S3W-39033","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of hospital bed days are accounted for by patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of hospital bed days are accounted for by patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not routinely available. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245549,"EventID":"S3W-39034","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by socioeconomic group of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by socioeconomic group of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission (SPARRA) tool is used to estimate the future risk of unscheduled inpatient admission of someone who has experienced at least one such admission in the preceding three years. The following table shows the number of people who have experienced at least one unscheduled admission in the three years prior to October 2010, broken down by Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation decile (SIMD: 2009). For each SIMD decile, the table also shows the number and percentage of these individuals whose risk of admission was estimated to be high, which is defined as a SPARRA risk score of 50% or more. SPARRA Patients by Deprivation Category | Current SIMD: 2009 | October 2010 | | SPARRA Cohort | High Risk* | | | | % | | 1 (Most Deprived) | 96,068 | 8,339 | 8.7 | | 2 | 88,805 | 6,689 | 7.5 | | 3 | 84,924 | 6,242 | 7.4 | | 4 | 79,331 | 5,541 | 7.0 | | 5 | 74,220 | 4,634 | 6.2 | | 6 | 90,408 | 6,847 | 7.6 | | 7 | 67,700 | 3,359 | 5.0 | | 8 | 64,174 | 2,913 | 4.5 | | 9 | 59,231 | 2,369 | 4.0 | | 10 (Least Deprived) | 51,800 | 1,982 | 3.8 | | Total | 756,6","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245550,"EventID":"S3W-39035","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what tools are approved by the NHS for the assessment of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what tools are approved by the NHS for the assessment of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool.","AnswerText":"The tools used to assess the cohort identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission or Admission (SPARRA) tool would be determined by the number and nature of the conditions of each individual, as well as their social, family and carer context. The Scottish Government''s Long Term Conditions Collaborative (LTCC) has also worked with teams from NHS boards and their local authority and third sector partners to agree and develop practical guidance on the approach to integrated care management and anticipatory care planning. In partnership with the Releasing Time to Care initiative, further work is being undertaken to build capability in community teams to apply these approaches. The Scottish Government''s Long Term Conditions Unit and the LTCC are also working with ehealth colleagues on developing the Key Information Summary to support electronic sharing of anticipatory care plans across teams and settings. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245551,"EventID":"S3W-39036","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by NHS board of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide a breakdown by NHS board of patients identified by the Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission tool in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Patients at Risk of Readmission and Admission (SPARRA) tool is used to estimate the future risk of unscheduled inpatient admission of someone who has experienced at least one such admission in the preceding three years. The following table shows the number of people meeting this criterion in each NHS board at the start of both financial years. The table also shows the number and percentage of these individuals whose risk of admission was estimated to be high, which is defined as a SPARRA risk score of 50% or more. SPARRA Patients by NHS Board | | April 2009 | April 2010 | | NHS Board | SPARRA Cohort | High Risk* | SPARRA Cohort | High Risk* | | | | | % | | | % | | Ayrshire and Arran | 62,088 | 4,683 | 7.5 | 63,639 | 4,308 | 6.8 | | Borders | 18,116 | 1,257 | 6.9 | 18,345 | 1,268 | 6.9 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 20,300 | 1,373 | 6.8 | 21,064 | 1,606 | 7.6 | | Fife | 49,843 | 2,813 | 5.6 | 50,792 | 3,215 | 6.3 | | Forth Valley | 40,406 | 2,390 | 5.9 | 40,749 | 2,650 | 6.5 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245552,"EventID":"S3W-39037","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all organisations and GPs involved with problem drug misusers now use SMR25a and SMR25b forms and what percentage of each is completed electronically.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all organisations and GPs involved with problem drug misusers now use SMR25a and SMR25b forms and what percentage of each is completed electronically.","AnswerText":"Scottish Morbidity Record (SMR) 25a submissions can be made using either paper forms or by submitting an electronic form to NHS Information Services Division (ISD) Scotland. SMR25b submissions can only be completed electronically. At present, ISD Scotland gathers submissions of SMR25a (initial assessment) and SMR25b (follow-up assessment) forms from all services that provide a comprehensive or specialist assessment of a client''s care/treatment needs in relation to drug misuse. For those services that meet this definition: a. Statutory (includes all NHS and local authority services) and voluntary drug treatment services: SMR25a forms are received from all statutory and voluntary drug treatment services in Scotland. Approximately 70% of these SMR25a submissions are completed electronically. In Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Aberdeen City approximately 65% and 75% respectively of statutory and voluntary drug treatment services currently submit SMR25a forms electronically to ISD Scotland. Outwith Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Aberdeen City, approximately 95% of statutory and voluntary drug treatment services currently submit SMR25a forms electronically to ISD. SMR25b forms are only submitted (electronically) by services who are also submitting electronic SMR25a forms. The vast majority of services that are submitting SMR25a forms electronically are also submitting SMR25b forms. ISD is working with data providers throughout Scotland to ensure that, as soon as possible, all services that provide a comprehensive or specialist assessment of a client''s care/treatment needs in relation to drug misuse are submitting electronic SMR25a and SMR25b forms to ISD Scotland. b. Primary care providers (including GPs): SMR25a paper form submissions are received from a limited number of primary care providers. No electronic SMR25a or SMR25b submissions are received from primary care providers. ISD will shortly be following up its initial contact with GPs with the aim of reaching a point where all relevant GPs are submitting SMR25a paper forms to ISD. After this has been achieved ISD will work with these GPs with the aim of reaching a point where they are all submitting SMR25a and SMR25b data electronically. c. Prisons: Since 1 April 2010, drug treatment services within all 13 publicly funded Scottish prisons make electronic SMR25a and SMR25b submissions. At present, the two private prisons in Scotland do not currently submit any SMR25a or SMR25b data to ISD. ISD will shortly be engaging with the drug treatment services in the two private prisons with the aim of reaching a point where they are submitting SMR25a and SMR25b data electronically. Source: ISD Scotland. Ref: IR2011-00217. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245553,"EventID":"S3W-39038","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a policy to deal with harassment and bullying in NHS National Services Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a policy to deal with harassment and bullying in NHS National Services Scotland.","AnswerText":"NHS National Services Scotland respond to all harassment and bullying allegations under their harassment and bullying policy, last published in August 2010. The policy states that all allegations of harassment and bullying should be investigated. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245554,"EventID":"S3W-39039","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many allegations of harassment and bullying in NHS National Services Scotland have been made in each year since 2007-08 and how many of the investigations into these ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many allegations of harassment and bullying in NHS National Services Scotland have been made in each year since 2007-08 and how many of the investigations into these cases have not been completed.","AnswerText":"NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) centrally record the total number of grievances that have been lodged by employees. NSS do not currently break these figures down further into the various categories, such as harassment and bullying. The figures provided below are the total number of grievance cases lodged per financial year since 2007-08. 2007-08: 12 2008-09: 38 2009-10: 17 2010-11: not reported as yet for the current financial year ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245555,"EventID":"S3W-39040","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff in NHS National Services Scotland are absent on sick leave due to work-related stress and how many have been absent for this reason in each year since 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff in NHS National Services Scotland are absent on sick leave due to work-related stress and how many have been absent for this reason in each year since 2007-08.","AnswerText":"NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) do not collate and categorise sickness absence figures into those relating to purely work-related stress. NSS do however collate sickness absence figures for employees absent for the following reasons - anxiety, stress, depression, other psychological illness. The figures provided below represent the number of NSS employees absent from work due to those reasons: | 2007-08 | 67 | | 2008-09 | 143 | | 2009-10 | 189 | | 2010-11 | (to date)109 | NHS NSS have indicated that the increase in recorded cases is due to improved reason for absence recording rather than an upward trend in actual cases. It is also important to note that the 2007-08 figure relates to stress only. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245556,"EventID":"S3W-39041","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how long it considers investigations of allegations of harassment or bullying should take.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how long it considers investigations of allegations of harassment or bullying should take.","AnswerText":"It is for individual employers to decide how long they consider it is reasonable for investigations into bullying or harassment to take. The Scottish Government''s Fairness at Work policy states that it expects formal complaints made under the policy to be resolved within five weeks. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245557,"EventID":"S3W-39042","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38740 by Nicola Sturgeon on 12 January 2011, how many GP practices now have premium rate telephone numbers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38740 by Nicola Sturgeon on 12 January 2011, how many GP practices now have premium rate telephone numbers.","AnswerText":"The answer was given in question S3W-38740, there are 40 GP practices with premium rate telephone numbers. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245558,"EventID":"S3W-39043","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-27498 and S3W-27499 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, how many GP practices have set up premium rate telephone lines since","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-27498 and S3W-27499 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, how many GP practices have set up premium rate telephone lines since the Cabinet Secretary announced that guidance would be issued to NHS boards that would require them to press practices using premium rate numbers to reopen negotiations with service providers.","AnswerText":"We are not aware of any additional GP practices using premium rate telephone numbers and we want to encourage those which do so to review their current telephone provider arrangements. We have written to chief executives of NHS boards reiterating the Scottish Government''s policy that patients should not incur charges above the normal telephone call rates. I have also requested that they encourage GP contractors to review their current telephone arrangements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245559,"EventID":"S3W-39044","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-27498 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, when the guidance to NHS boards on the use of premium rate telephone lines was issue","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-27498 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, when the guidance to NHS boards on the use of premium rate telephone lines was issued.","AnswerText":"We wrote to chief executives of NHS boards on 23 February 2011 reiterating the Scottish Government''s policy that patients should not incur charges above the normal telephone call rates. We have also requested that they encourage GP contractors to review their current telephone arrangements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245560,"EventID":"S3W-39045","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-27498 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, how many GP practices have reopened negotiations with premium rate telephone line pr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-27498 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, how many GP practices have reopened negotiations with premium rate telephone line providers to drive down costs to callers.","AnswerText":"We do not hold any information on how many GP practices have re-opened negotiations with premium telephone providers. We have however written to chief executives of NHS boards on 23 February 2011 reiterating the Scottish Government''s policy that patients should not incur charges above the normal telephone call rates. We have also requested that they encourage GP contractors to review their current telephone arrangements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245561,"EventID":"S3W-39046","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason NHS Health Scotland uses a private provider for its occupational health service rather than NHS Lothian.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason NHS Health Scotland uses a private provider for its occupational health service rather than NHS Lothian.","AnswerText":"NHS Health Scotland uses a private provider for its occupational health service because, having retendered for this service, as required by law, and having undertaken a procurement process in line with current legislation, this private provider was deemed to offer best value for money compared to other organisations which tendered for the contract. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245562,"EventID":"S3W-39047","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards use private sector providers to deliver their occupational health services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards use private sector providers to deliver their occupational health services.","AnswerText":"NHS Health Scotland is the only NHSScotland board to use a private sector provider to deliver their occupational health service. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245563,"EventID":"S3W-39048","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4016,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":64,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Scottish Water regarding the Kelso Waste Treatment Works and whether there are plans to invest in the works.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Scottish Water regarding the Kelso Waste Treatment Works and whether there are plans to invest in the works.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has regular discussions with Scottish Water regarding odours from Wastewater Treatment Works and some odour improvements have already been delivered at Kelso. The government understands that Scottish Water is agreeing an Odour Improvement Plan with Scottish Borders Council that will inform any future investment needs. Scottish Water will continue to keep local residents informed of its plans. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245564,"EventID":"S3W-39049","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure the equal and full involvement of the parents or guardians of pupils attending independent and grant-aided special schools in the review of learning pr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure the equal and full involvement of the parents or guardians of pupils attending independent and grant-aided special schools in the review of learning provision for children and young people with complex additional support needs.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that parents and guardians are given the opportunity to engage fully and meaningfully in the strategic review of learning provision for children and young people with complex additional support needs. The secretariat to the review will shortly be writing to the parents or guardians of pupils attending independent, grant-aided and local authority special schools with details of how they can both be kept informed of the review''s progress and engage with its working groups. Communication activity will include a dedicated website for the review, opportunities for anyone with an interest in the review to register an e-mail address for updates and a regular blog from the review chair on the engage for education website. Both the strategic and working groups will consider how to ensure parents and pupils are meaningfully engaged in the review, and will involve parental stakeholders and representatives as necessary. The Scottish Government National Parental Involvement Coordinator is a member of the Strategic Review Group and will provide advice. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245565,"EventID":"S3W-39050","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure the equal and full involvement in local authority educational consultations of those parents or guardians of pupils attending independent and grant aid","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure the equal and full involvement in local authority educational consultations of those parents or guardians of pupils attending independent and grant aided special schools who are not represented by parent councils.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not have a role in this area. The Standards in Scotland''s Schools etc (Scotland) Act 2000 includes many provisions to make sure that parents are consulted on key issues at both school and education authority level. In addition, the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 sets out the list of relevant proposals that must be consulted on by local authorities in line with the act''s provisions. However, this legislation only applies to schools managed by local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245566,"EventID":"S3W-39051","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how patients requiring diagnosis and treatment for (a) infertility, (b) mental health issues and (c) drug addiction will be assisted by the EU directive on cross-border h","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how patients requiring diagnosis and treatment for (a) infertility, (b) mental health issues and (c) drug addiction will be assisted by the EU directive on cross-border healthcare","AnswerText":"The Cross-border Healthcare Directive codifies existing European case-law, established over the last 10 years or so, which has determined that EU citizens'' have the right to travel in the European Economic Area (EEA) to receive healthcare services that are the same as, or equivalent to, services provided by their home state healthcare system and to be reimbursed on their return. The directive is not designed around particular health conditions. Therefore, any assistance that Scottish patients might derive from the directive will depend on their personal circumstances, the specific treatment or services they wish to access, and whether they meet the relevant criteria for reimbursement. This will be limited to the amount the healthcare would have cost the NHS had it been provided at home, or the actual cost if that is less. Under the terms of the directive, before travelling in the EEA to obtain health services, Scots seeking treatment that includes hospital care; specialised care; or expensive diagnostic equipment will require a referral by their general practitioner (as the gate-keeper to secondary care) and prior authorisation from their NHS board. The decision on whether or not to grant prior authorisation will take into account prevailing factors including: medical need, whether the board provides the diagnosis and treatment and on what basis, and its availability. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245567,"EventID":"S3W-39052","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Monklands and (b) Ayr accident and emergency unit in each year since May 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Monklands and (b) Ayr accident and emergency unit in each year since May 2007","AnswerText":"The number of attendances (new and unplanned returns) from July 2007 to September 2010 for a) Monklands and b) Ayr accident and emergency department are provided in the following table. A patient may have more than one attendance during the period. The number of monthly attendances at each accident and emergency department across Scotland are published quarterly at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4024.html. Total Number of Attendances at Monklands and Ayr Accident and Emergency Departments for Financial Years 2007-08 to 2010-11 | | Financial Year | | Accident and Emergency Department | 2007-08* | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11P | | Monklands Hospital | 49,187 | 66,522 | 68,424 | 35,298 | | Ayr Hospital | 30,390 | 42,133 | 43,115 | 22,868 | Notes: * Data is from July 2007. P Dates are complete to September 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245568,"EventID":"S3W-39053","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Aberdeen and (b) Edinburgh children’s cancer unit in each year since May 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Aberdeen and (b) Edinburgh children’s cancer unit in each year since May 2007","AnswerText":"It is not possible to specifically identify children''s cancer units from centrally held information. The following table shows the number of patients aged under 16 who had a neoplasm diagnosis and were treated as either an inpatient or day case at the Royal Aberdeen Children''s Hospital or the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh. Information on patients seen in an outpatient setting with a cancer diagnosis is not centrally available. Number of Patients Aged Under 16 who had a Neoplasm Diagnosis and were Treated as either an Inpatient or Day Case; Financial Years 2006-07 to 2009-10 | Hospital | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Royal Aberdeen Children''s Hospital | 161 | 136 | 128 | 133 | | Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh | 378 | 337 | 296 | 325 | Source: ISD Scotland, SMR01. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245569,"EventID":"S3W-39054","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at the (a) Vale of Leven and (b) Inverclyde maternity unit in each year since May 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at the (a) Vale of Leven and (b) Inverclyde maternity unit in each year since May 2007","AnswerText":"The number of patients who have received care or treatment at the (a) Vale of Leven and (b) Inverclyde maternity unit in each year since May 2007 is answered in the following table: Table 1: Number of patients Recorded as Having Received Care or Treatment at the Vale of Leven and Inverclyde Maternity Unit; Financial years 2007-08 to 2009-10 | Hospital | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Vale of Leven | 383 | 374 | 423 | | Inverclyde | 617 | 649 | 678 | Source: ISD Scotland SMR02. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245570,"EventID":"S3W-39055","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Edinburgh, (b) Aberdeen, (c) Dundee and (d) Glasgow neurosurgery unit in each year since May 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received care or treatment at (a) Edinburgh, (b) Aberdeen, (c) Dundee and (d) Glasgow neurosurgery unit in each year since May 2007","AnswerText":"It is not possible to specifically identify neurosurgery units from centrally held information. Table 1 shows the number of patients treated as either an inpatient or day case in the specialty of neurosurgery at Grampian, Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lothian and Tayside NHS boards. Table 1: Number of Patients Treated as either an Inpatient or Day Case in the Specialty of Neurosurgery at Grampian, Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lothian and Tayside NHS Boards; Financial Years 2006-07 to 2009-10 | NHS Board of Treatment | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Grampian | 1,138 | 1,164 | 1,189 | 1,155 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 2,473 | 2,607 | 2,679 | 2,587 | | Lothian | 1,780 | 1,874 | 2,006 | 2,038 | | Tayside | 854 | 856 | 887 | 1,002 | Source: ISD Scotland, SMR01. Whilst it is not possible to specifically identify the number of patients seen in neurosurgery outpatient clinics, Table 2 shows the number of new and return outpatient attendances in the specialty of neurosurgery at Grampian, Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lothian and Tayside NHS boards. Table 2: Number of New and Return Outpatient Attendances in the Specialty of Neurosurgery at Grampian, Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lothian and Tayside NHS Boards; Financial Years 2006-07 to 2009-10 | NHS Board of Treatment | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | | | New | Return | New | Return | New | Return | New | Return | | | Grampian | I have asked officials to speak to the relevant Sector Skills Councils for this area to look at how we ensure support for Scottish candidates going forward. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245572,"EventID":"S3W-39057","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with training providers regarding the future training of jockeys","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with training providers regarding the future training of jockeys","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has regular discussions with training providers and their representative bodies regarding future provision of training. No training provider has approached the Scottish Government seeking to discuss the future training of jockeys. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39056 on 7 February 2011. I have recently been made aware of changes to funding arrangements for jockeys. I have asked officials to speak with the relevant Sector Skills Councils to discuss this matter. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245573,"EventID":"S3W-39058","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what role Skills Development Scotland will play in the future training of jockeys","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what role Skills Development Scotland will play in the future training of jockeys","AnswerText":"As in my answers to questions S3W-39056 and S3W-39057 on 7 February 2011, I have asked officials to speak to the relevant Sector Skills Councils to ensure that they are meeting the demands of Scottish employers in this sector. I will ensure that Skills Development Scotland are involved in these discussions. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245574,"EventID":"S3W-39059","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to the first supplementary to question S3O-11582 by John Swinney on 7 October 2010 (Official Report, c. 29467), what progress has been made regardi","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to the first supplementary to question S3O-11582 by John Swinney on 7 October 2010 (Official Report, c. 29467), what progress has been made regarding its participation in the UN International Year of Cooperatives 2012.","AnswerText":"As stated in my previous answer, the Scottish Government would look to Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS) to structure any participation in the UN International Year of Co-operatives 2012. I am advised that CDS aim to start the planning process in spring 2011, in conjunction with Co-operatives UK, and that Sarah Deas, Chief Executive of CDS, would welcome any input that the member or others may wish to make to that process. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245575,"EventID":"S3W-39060","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many anti-sectarianism projects it has funded from the Race, Religion and Refugee Integration Fund since 2008, broken down by (a) project and (b) amount","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many anti-sectarianism projects it has funded from the Race, Religion and Refugee Integration Fund since 2008, broken down by (a) project and (b) amount","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government funds a wide range of organisations to deliver projects to tackle sectarianism and all forms of religious intolerance. These include work focusing on schools, communities, the workplace, football supporters and adult offenders: | Organisation | Financial Years | Totals | | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 | | Nil by Mouth | £51,000 | £59,000 | £59,000 | £169,000 | | Sense over Sectarianism | £112,500 | £150,000 | £150,000 | £412,500 | | Show Racism the Red Card | | £46,600 | £46,600 | £93,200 | | Show Bigotry the Red Card | | | £21,900 | £21,900 | | Iona Community | | £20,000 | £42,300 | £62,300 | | YouthLink Scotland | £21,500 | | | £21,500 | | Youth Community Support Agency | £50,000 | £70,000 | £70,000 | £190,000 | | Totals: | £235,000 | £345,600 | £389,800 | £970,400 | Despite huge cuts being inflicted on Scotland by the Westminster government, the Scottish Government has decided to retain the funding level for equality projects at £20.3 million for 2011-12. This demonstrates the continuing commitment of the Scottish Government to the promotion","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245576,"EventID":"S3W-39061","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether youth groups and clubs requiring disclosure checks will have direct access to the electronic Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme system as stated on its website a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether youth groups and clubs requiring disclosure checks will have direct access to the electronic Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme system as stated on its website and what the reasons are for its position on this matter","AnswerText":"When the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme goes live on 28 February 2011 all applications and disclosures will be on paper format only. Release 2 of the system is scheduled to be deployed in summer 2011. This will include the electronic interface. Online accounts will be made available to any organisation, for paid workers or volunteers, if they are a registered body with Disclosure Scotland. Online accounts will be rolled out to the registered bodies as part of a managed process. Voluntary sector organisations that use the services of The Central Registered Body in Scotland (CRBS) will not be able to use the on-line process directly but will use a parallel service especially designed for them instead. CRBS will become electronically linked into the Disclosure Scotland process which is expected to speed up processing times by at least two days. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245577,"EventID":"S3W-39062","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37988 by Alex Neil on 13 December 2010, what payments have been made from the Achieving our Potential budget since it was introduce","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37988 by Alex Neil on 13 December 2010, what payments have been made from the Achieving our Potential budget since it was introduced, broken down by (a) award, (b) receiving organisation and (c) payment date","AnswerText":"The following payments have been allocated from the Achieving our Potential programme budget since the answer to S3W-37988: £28,000 to Glasgow Works in January 2011 to embed financial inclusion into employability practice. £10,200 to APS Group for the design and delivery of the Child Poverty Consultation document in December 2010. £9,850 to Young Scot for developing and running focus groups in December 2010 with young people regarding the Child Poverty Consultation. £3,500 to Dr Jim McCormick, Scotland Adviser to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation in December 2010 for advice and support in the development of the Child Poverty Strategy and the Tackling Poverty Board Evidence Report. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245578,"EventID":"S3W-39063","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has (a) estimated the cost of operating and (b) researched the logistics of establishing armed forces should Scotland become independent","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has (a) estimated the cost of operating and (b) researched the logistics of establishing armed forces should Scotland become independent","AnswerText":"As set out in the Scottish Government''s White Paper Your Scotland, Your Voice, published on 30 November 2009, there would be a range of choices for an independent Scotland''s defence policy and defence capability, the logistics and costs for which would depend upon the decisions of the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government following independence, and the terms of the independence settlement. The Scottish Government would work closely with the UK Government and with international partners during the transition from current UK defence arrangements to the establishment of a Scottish defence service. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245579,"EventID":"S3W-39064","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2133,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":6,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action is being taken to overcome the delay in wind farm projects due to radar issues and when the matter will be resolved with aviation stakeholders","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action is being taken to overcome the delay in wind farm projects due to radar issues and when the matter will be resolved with aviation stakeholders","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government (SG) has been very proactive in overcoming delays to wind farm developments due to radar issues. The SG formed the South West Scotland Aviation Solution Group in March 2009 which has met seven times and brings together all the relevant stakeholders. Developments in this forum led to the publication of the SG''s Feasibility Report which described the potential for finding solutions to radar issues and is the foundation upon which much of the progress made to date has been built. SG is also member of the Aviation Management Board which brings stakeholders together at UK level, including to support the development of new technological solutions. The work is ongoing and covers a multitude of developments requiring different solutions, including some at pre-planning stage, so it is not possible to apply any timescales for completion. Further information on the issue and the feasibility report can be obtained on the SG website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/Energy/Infrastructure/Energy-Consents/Guidance. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245580,"EventID":"S3W-39065","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has issued guidance to local authorities on whether schools will be on holiday on 29 April 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has issued guidance to local authorities on whether schools will be on holiday on 29 April 2011.","AnswerText":"Yes. On 20 January 2011, directors were advised that if they intended to seek ministerial consent for the exceptional closure of schools on that day, such consent would be forthcoming. A copy of the letter is available in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52391). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245581,"EventID":"S3W-39066","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1926,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":48,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many road crashes involving (a) oil and (b) diesel spills there have been in each year since 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many road crashes involving (a) oil and (b) diesel spills there have been in each year since 1999.","AnswerText":"The following table shows the number of reported road accidents where oil or diesel was present at the site. It is not possible to list these liquids separately. | Year | Oil or Diesel | | 2005 | 72 | | 2006 | 81 | | 2007 | 82 | | 2008 | 88 | | 2009 | 90 | Note: Data prior to 2005 is unreliable due to changes which were made to the STATS 19 data collection system. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245582,"EventID":"S3W-39067","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3746,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-26T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what referral paths there are for professional psychological therapy or counselling for trauma experienced by victims of sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse and whet","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what referral paths there are for professional psychological therapy or counselling for trauma experienced by victims of sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse and whether the service provision differs according to gender.","AnswerText":"NHS boards are responsible for providing treatment for people who have experienced trauma, including access to psychological therapies. Referral to these services can be through a number of different routes including referral by a GP or self-referral. Since 2007 the Scottish Government has provided funding of £3.8 million through the National Strategy for Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse to help address the needs of adult survivors of childhood abuse. This includes funding to statutory and voluntary organisations to develop a wide range of services for survivors including preventative work, support and counselling. In 2009, after identifying a need for improved services for men, specific funding was provided to develop services for male survivors. Further details can be found at www.survivorscotland.org.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245583,"EventID":"S3W-39068","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1756,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":7,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it holds a list of people suspected of having their mobile phone calls illegally intercepted and, if so, what steps it has taken to notify them.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it holds a list of people suspected of having their mobile phone calls illegally intercepted and, if so, what steps it has taken to notify them.","AnswerText":"Allegations of illegal interception should be reported to the police. The Scottish Government holds no information on people suspected of having their mobile phone calls illegally intercepted. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245584,"EventID":"S3W-39069","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38496 by Michael Russell on 20 January 2011, whether it will provide a response that addresses the specific issues raised in the qu","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38496 by Michael Russell on 20 January 2011, whether it will provide a response that addresses the specific issues raised in the question.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has already provided an answer to question S3W-38496. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245585,"EventID":"S3W-39070","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37254 by John Swinney on 22 November 2010, whether it will publish in its staff directory the specific functions of each director a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37254 by John Swinney on 22 November 2010, whether it will publish in its staff directory the specific functions of each director and deputy director on the Infrastructure Investment Group.","AnswerText":"Following a major restructuring exercise within the Scottish Government, the Scottish Government''s Business Directory has been extensively updated and staff at all grades have been asked to ensure that their functions are accurately recorded on the business directory. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245586,"EventID":"S3W-39071","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish on its website (a) detailed job descriptions of each member of the Infrastructure Investment Group, (b) details of what each member has done in re","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish on its website (a) detailed job descriptions of each member of the Infrastructure Investment Group, (b) details of what each member has done in relation to their role on the group, (c) the number of hours that each member spends on infrastructure investment business in each month and (d) an update every three months of what each has done in relation to their role.","AnswerText":"My responses to the four separate points are as follows: (a) Civil Servants agree with their managers objectives at the start of every reporting year (which runs 1 April to 31 March) as part of the annual performance management arrangements. Their objectives are personal data and would therefore not be publicly disclosed on the Scottish Government''s website under Data Protection provisions. (b) As part of the programme of work in response to recommendations from Audit Scotland and the Public Audit Committee, the Scottish Government conducted a thorough review of governance of the Scottish Government''s capital programme. The main conclusion from this review is that we should establish an Infrastructure Investment Board (IIB) to take on an executive role in infrastructure governance. Further details of the IIB''s remit and membership can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/Finance/18232/IIB. Specifically, the IIB will: provide strategic scrutiny of high-value major infrastructure projects at an early stage; use robust management information to review the governance and delivery of the capital programme, including the Infrastructure Investment Plan (IIP), and, where appropriate, specific major projects; provide advice to Ministers about capital investment priorities to inform decision-making; and review portfolio-level governance and decision-making structures for capital projects to ensure these are fit for purpose. In view of the establishment of the IIB, it was decided at the end of last year that the core information and best practice sharing activities between directors and key agencies currently performed by IIG should be merged with other official level groups. This in no way denigrates the worthwhileness of the IIG, but is simply a continuation in the ongoing process to improve financial governance of the capital budget sought by Audit Scotland and the Public Audit Committee. The last meeting of the IIG took place on the 24 August 2010, with the first IIB being held on 1 November 2010. (c) As indicated in my answer to question S3W-37255 on 26 November 2010, meetings of the IIG generally occurred only quarterly, with agenda items varying per meeting. This meant that individual contributions towards the group, both prior to and following meetings would have fluctuated depending on the agenda, what projects they were involved in and whether they were presenting a paper. In terms of infrastructure investment work more generally, this also differs throughout the organisation, and also per month. The amount of time spent on such activities is very much dependent on what infrastructure investment projects individual divisions are leading or providing advice on, and as you will appreciate from the list of agenda items previously supplied to you, this can fluctuate over time. It should also be noted that work on infrastructure investment would be delegated within the areas senior staff are responsible for, and that simply providing senior staff hours does not provide information on the value of the work that the directorate or division has collectively provided. (d) IIG has been disbanded and as such there is no further call on its members in relation to their work within the IIG. Information regarding the activities of IIB will be routinely published on the Scottish Government''s website. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245587,"EventID":"S3W-39072","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Minister for Public Health and Sport will commission research into the impact of negative role models in football on young people who play football.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Minister for Public Health and Sport will commission research into the impact of negative role models in football on young people who play football.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government recognises the very positive role football clubs and players have in their communities across Scotland in helping to inspire young people to participate in not just football but all sports. That is why we are investing in a range of initiatives and we are developing those to ensure we are maximising our investments in football and sport. You may find the following piece of research, commissioned by sportscotland, of interest Sporting Success, Role Models and Participation: A Policy Related Review. This was published in 2009 and can be found at: http://www.sportscotland.org.uk/ChannelNavigation/Resources/TopicNavigation/Collections/Research/Sporting+success+role+models+and+participation.htm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245588,"EventID":"S3W-39073","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for employment programmes in the city of Edinburgh.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for employment programmes in the city of Edinburgh.","AnswerText":"Edinburgh is being supported by the Scottish Government in a number of ways to help deliver employability initiatives. On 14 December 2010, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Michael Russell MSP, announced £64.6 million European Structural Fund (ESF) grant towards 21 strategic projects worth £168 million. A joint bid from Edinburgh and Midlothian councils received £3.96 million directly from this allocation. They will also benefit from targeted local funding from a number of the other strategic bidders including the Scottish Funding Council, STUC, Skills Development Scotland and a Third Sector Consortium bid. The bids are being supported over two years from 2011 onwards and will deliver employability and training services for the unemployed, the lowest paid and the socially deprived, ranging from early engagement through to in-work support and skills development. The organisations will all be involved in the delivery of the strategic skills programme which fits with the Scottish Government''s Skills Strategy and Economic Recovery Programme. Edinburgh and Midlothian councils are also working jointly to deliver a higher support needs consortium, which focuses on providing personalised support to people with disabilities and long-term health issues to ensure they are able to acquire and sustain employment. The project has received ESF support twice since 2008, with ESF awards totalling £1.78 million (total project costs of £3.97 million). The current project will be supported by ESF until September 2012. In addition, £724,310 has been allocated in 2008-11 through the Scottish Government''s Wider Role Fund to support the employability programmes of registered social landlords in the City of Edinburgh. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245589,"EventID":"S3W-39074","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding was provided through the Fairer Scotland Fund for employability programmes in each local authority area in 2009-10 and is provided in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding was provided through the Fairer Scotland Fund for employability programmes in each local authority area in 2009-10 and is provided in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"Allocations of the Fairer Scotland Fund to each local authority area for 2009 and 2010-11 are as follows. | Local Authority Area | Funding in 2009-10 | Funding in 2010-11 | | (£ Million) | (£ Million) | | Aberdeen City | 2.481 | 2.843 | | Aberdeenshire | 1.038 | 1.286 | | Angus | 0.988 | 1.24 | | Argyll and Bute | 0.965 | 1.104 | | Clackmannanshire | 2.043 | 2.263 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 1.634 | 1.694 | | Dundee City | 8.286 | 8.131 | | East Ayrshire | 4.621 | 4.589 | | East Dunbartonshire | 0.523 | 0.621 | | East Lothian | 0.413 | 0.546 | | East Renfrewshire | 0.575 | 0.526 | | Edinburgh, City of | 7.599 | 7.554 | | Eilean Siar | 0.545 | 0.5 | | Falkirk | 1.955 | 2.212 | | Fife | 4.692 | 5.675 | | Glasgow City | 51.491 | 51.969 | | Highland | 1.959 | 2.354 | | Inverclyde | 6.125 | 5.78 | | Midlothian | 0.718 | In addition to this funding the Capital City Partnership in 2008-09 and the Edinburgh Partnership in 2009-11 were awarded an additional £2.238 million per year to address the strategic priorities for Edinburgh in respect of community regeneration, tackling poverty and improving employability. In the face of unprecedented cuts from Westminster, the Scottish Government had to take tough decisions about expenditure across government and careful consideration of pressures and priorities in all portfolios. In these circumstances, it has not been possible to maintain this particular additional dedicated funding support. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245591,"EventID":"S3W-39076","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what consultation was carried out with the service providers involved in delivering training to people eligible for assistance before the decision was taken to withdraw F","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what consultation was carried out with the service providers involved in delivering training to people eligible for assistance before the decision was taken to withdraw Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not withdrawn Fairer Scotland Funding (FSF) from the Capital City Partnership. The Community Planning Partnership for Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Partnership, was awarded £22.798 million from the Fairer Scotland Fund from 2008-11 to work together to tackle area-based and individual poverty, and to help more people access and sustain employment opportunities. The ring fence from the Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF) was removed in 2010-11 to provide local partners with increased flexibility in how to use resources to tackle local priorities. The regeneration resources associated with the former FSF have been retained and maintained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement. In addition the Scottish Government has been able to maintain the overall share of the budget for local government at 34.5%, the same as 2010-11. Any consultation on future funding for local projects is the responsibility of local partners. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245592,"EventID":"S3W-39077","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the decision was made to withdraw Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the decision was made to withdraw Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not withdrawn Fairer Scotland Funding (FSF) from the Capital City Partnership. The Community Planning Partnership for Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Partnership, was awarded £22.798 million from the Fairer Scotland Fund from 2008-11 to work together to tackle area-based and individual poverty, and to help more people access and sustain employment opportunities. The ring fence from the Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF) was removed in 2010-11 to provide local partners with increased flexibility in how to use resources to tackle local priorities. The regeneration resources associated with the former FSF have been retained and maintained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement. The decision to end the additional support that the Edinburgh Partnership received to address the strategic priorities for Edinburgh in respect of community regeneration, tackling poverty and improving employability was taken in December 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245593,"EventID":"S3W-39078","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Capital City Partnership was first informed that Fairer Scotland Funding would cease.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Capital City Partnership was first informed that Fairer Scotland Funding would cease.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not withdrawn Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership. The Community Planning Partnership for Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Partnership, was awarded £22.798 million from the Fairer Scotland Fund from 2008-11 to work together to tackle area-based and individual poverty, and to help more people access and sustain employment opportunities. The ring fence from the Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF) was removed in 2010-11 to provide local partners with increased flexibility in how to use resources to tackle local priorities. The regeneration resources associated with the former FSF have been retained and maintained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement. The Minister for Housing and Communities, Alex Neil, wrote to Councillor Tom Buchanan at City of Edinburgh Council on 21 December 2010 informing him that the Scottish Government were unable to continue additional dedicated central government support to the Edinburgh Partnership. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245594,"EventID":"S3W-39079","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the impact on client groups of the withdrawal of Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the impact on client groups of the withdrawal of Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not withdrawn Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership. The Community Planning Partnership for Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Partnership, was awarded £22.798 million from the Fairer Scotland Fund from 2008-11 to work together to tackle area-based and individual poverty, and to help more people access and sustain employment opportunities. The ring fence from the Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF) was removed in 2010-11 to provide local partners with increased flexibility in how to use resources to tackle local priorities. The regeneration resources associated with the former FSF have been retained and maintained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement. In addition the Scottish Government has been able to maintain the overall share of the budget for local government at 34.5%, the same as 2010-11. It is for local partners to consider the impact of investment decisions on client groups. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245595,"EventID":"S3W-39080","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will support alternative training programmes to replace those that will be lost as a result of the reduction in the Fairer Scotland Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will support alternative training programmes to replace those that will be lost as a result of the reduction in the Fairer Scotland Fund.","AnswerText":"Edinburgh is being supported by the Scottish Government in a number of ways to help deliver employability initiatives. On 14 December 2010, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning Michael Russell announced £64.6 million ESF grant towards 21 strategic projects worth £168 million. A joint bid from Edinburgh and Midlothian Councils received £3.96 million directly from this allocation. They will also benefit from targeted local funding from a number of the other strategic bidders including the Scottish Funding Council, STUC, Skills Development Scotland and a Third Sector Consortium bid. The bids are being supported over two years from 2011 onwards and will deliver employability and training services for the unemployed, the lowest paid and the socially deprived, ranging from early engagement through to in-work support and skills development. The organisations will all be involved in the delivery of the strategic skills programme which fits with the Scottish Government''s Skills Strategy and Economic Recovery Programme. City of Edinburgh and Midlothian Councils are also working jointly to deliver a higher support needs consortium, which focuses on providing personalised support to people with disabilities and long-term health issues to ensure they are able to acquire and sustain employment. The project has received ESF support twice since 2008, with ESF awards totalling £1.78 million (Total project costs of £3.97 million). The current project will be supported by ESF until September 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245596,"EventID":"S3W-39081","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the impact on Edinburgh’s Joined Up for Jobs Strategy of the withdrawal of Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the impact on Edinburgh’s Joined Up for Jobs Strategy of the withdrawal of Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not withdrawn Fairer Scotland Funding from the Capital City Partnership. The Community Planning Partnership for Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Partnership, was awarded £22.798 million from the Fairer Scotland Fund from 2008-11 to work together to tackle area-based and individual poverty, and to help more people access and sustain employment opportunities. The ring fence from the Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF) was removed in 2010-11 to provide local partners with increased flexibility in how to use resources to tackle local priorities. The regeneration resources associated with the former FSF have been retained and maintained within the 2011-12 local government finance settlement. In addition, the Scottish Government has been able to maintain the overall share of the budget for local government at 34.5%, the same as 2010-11. It is for local partners to consider how to deliver the Joined up for Jobs Strategy and the impact of any funding changes to that. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245597,"EventID":"S3W-39082","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will reconsider its decision to withdraw Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will reconsider its decision to withdraw Fairer Scotland funding from the Capital City Partnership.","AnswerText":"We will be working with the Capital City Partnership to explore alternative measures for funding projects. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245598,"EventID":"S3W-39083","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The preferred source for earnings estimates is the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), which is carried out by the Office for National Statistics. ASHE estimates are not available by city. Therefore, estimates for the corresponding Local authorities are provided for the six cities in Scotland (Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, and Stirling). Note that local authorities are not ideal proxies for cities in all cases, for example the Highland local authority and the city of Inverness. The following table shows the median gross weekly pay for employee by gender in 2007, 2008 and 2009. The median is the recommended measure of average earnings as opposed to the mean. Table 1 “ Median Gross Weekly Pay (£) for Employee Jobs by Gender | Local Authority | Male | Female | All | | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | | Aberdeen City | 551.87 | 556.66 | 602.13 | 311.20 | 336.31 | 325.28 | 429.72 | 442.62 | 449.02 | | Dundee City | 472.40 | 471.17 | 486.91 | 317.61 | 325.89 | 350.12 | 376.43 | 376.70 | 414.34 | | Edinburgh, City of | 485.38 | 493.99 | 497.71 | 369.38 | 383.30 | 390.92 | 423.97 | 431.60 | 438.34 | | Glasgow City | 455.06 | 484.37 | 473.22 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245600,"EventID":"S3W-39085","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of female employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of female employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39083 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245601,"EventID":"S3W-39086","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The preferred source for earnings estimates is the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), which is carried out by the Office for National Statistics. ASHE estimates are not available by city. Therefore, estimates for the corresponding Local authorities are provided for the six cities in Scotland (Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, and Stirling). Note that local authorities will not be ideal proxies for cities in all cases, for example the Highland local authority and the city of Inverness. When the ASHE sample is split by both gender and public/private sector classification the resulting earnings estimates are not reliable at local authority level. Estimates by gender and public/private sector classification are provided in separate tables. Table 1 shows the median gross weekly pay for full-time employee jobs by gender in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Table 2 shows the median gross weekly pay for full-time employee jobs by public/private sector classification in 2007, 2008 and 2009. The median is the recommended measure of average earnings as opposed to the mean. Table 1: Median Gross Weekly Pay (£) for Full-Time Employee Jobs by Gender | Local Authority | Male | Female | All | | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | | Aberdeen City | 599.65 | 585.06 | 640.40 | 452.21 | 471.17 | 480.74 | 532.13 | 538.41 | 576.93 | | Dundee City | 502.70 | 498.73 | 507.35 | 391.41 | 417.15 | 418.76 | 465.36 | 465.41 | 482.85 | | Edinburgh, City of | 523.84 | 535.02 | 545.15 | 459.12 | 483.91 | 500.75 | 497.75 | <","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245602,"EventID":"S3W-39087","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245603,"EventID":"S3W-39088","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245604,"EventID":"S3W-39089","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, male, public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, male, public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245605,"EventID":"S3W-39090","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, female, public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, female, public sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245606,"EventID":"S3W-39091","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, male, private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, male, private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245607,"EventID":"S3W-39092","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, female, private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time, female, private sector employees in each city in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39086 on 4 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website. The search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245608,"EventID":"S3W-39093","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many local planning applications have been referred to it in each year since 2006.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many local planning applications have been referred to it in each year since 2006.","AnswerText":"The Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals has received the following number of appeals against decisions made by local planning authorities on planning applications since 2006: | Year | Appeals Received | | 2006 | 1,039 | | 2007 | 1,106 | | 2008 | 1,091 | | 2009 | 908 | | 2010 | 320 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245609,"EventID":"S3W-39094","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many planning application appeals have been upheld by it in each year since 2006.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many planning application appeals have been upheld by it in each year since 2006.","AnswerText":"The number of appeals upheld against decisions made by local planning authorities since 2006 is: | Year | Number of Appeals Upheld | | 2006 | 381 | | 2007 | 413 | | 2008 | 372 | | 2009 | 339 | | 2010 | 158 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245610,"EventID":"S3W-39095","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4016,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":64,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has spent on drug testing of prisoners on reception to prison in each of the last five years, broken down by prison.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has spent on drug testing of prisoners on reception to prison in each of the last five years, broken down by prison.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: The Scottish Prison Service does not separately record the cost of drug testing prisoners on reception to prison. Drug testing in prison is carried out extensively to support clinical prescribing, progression through a sentence, risk management and to identify incidence and prevalence of drug use. The following table provides the expenditure on drug testing per establishment over the last three years on all types of testing that is highlighted in the Drug Misuse Statistics Scotland report published annually by the Scottish Government. Significant reductions in costs have been made possible by increased use of in-house testing kits. | Establishment | Expenditure 2007-08 | Expenditure 2008-09 | Expenditure 2009-10 | | Addiewell1 | N/A | £2,324 | £4,722 | | Kilmarnock | £20,880 | £18,159 | £13,177 | | Aberdeen | £3,908.42 | £7,369.66 | £3,040.26 | | Barlinnie | £11,113.39 | £16,042.85 | £12,761.86 | | Cornton Vale | £20,030.74 | £12,611.02 | £11,275.87 | | Dumfries | £1,885.04 | £1,737.90 | £1,364.91 | | Edinburgh | £26,450.06 | £21,113.91 | £19,699.23 | | Glenochil | £24,248.65 | £20,547.56 | £14,916.48 | | Greenock | £7,885.62 | £8,980.20 | £9,830.47 | | Inverness | £2,583.62 | £2,009.74 | £1,968.99 | | The information relating to drug testing in prison is published annually in Drug Misuse Statistics Scotland by Information Statistics Division of the Scottish Government. The report can be accessed at: http://www.drugmisuse.isdscotland.org/publications/abstracts/ISDbull.htm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245612,"EventID":"S3W-39097","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38733 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, what information ScotRail is contractually obliged to provide regarding the Motherwell/Coa","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38733 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, what information ScotRail is contractually obliged to provide regarding the Motherwell/Coatbridge Central/Cumbernauld route and whether the Scottish Government will provide this.","AnswerText":"The operational information ScotRail is required to supply Transport Scotland is set out in Appendix 3 to Schedule 13.2 of the Franchise document. A copy of the ScotRail Franchise Agreement is in the Scottish Parliament''s Information Centre (Bib. number 37777) and the Public Register version of the Franchise Agreement is available on Transport Scotland''s website: http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/rail/rail-franchise/public-register/contents. The nearest relevant information that we can provide is as follows: Services on the Motherwell/Cumbernauld route were suspended for several days in November and December 2010. Of the days when the line operated, in the four-week period to 11 December 2010 8% of services were cancelled, and in the four-week period to 8 January 2011 7% were cancelled. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245613,"EventID":"S3W-39098","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its estimate is of the (a) valuation of and (b) annual amounts collected in non-domestic rates on fibre optic network operators since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its estimate is of the (a) valuation of and (b) annual amounts collected in non-domestic rates on fibre optic network operators since May 2007.","AnswerText":"Valuations of all non-domestic property are available on the valuation rolls which are published on the Scottish Assessors Association website at www.saa.gov.uk. The Scottish Government does not hold information disaggregated below that which appears on the valuation rolls. The annual amount of business rates collected by individual businesses is not held centrally. The amount paid in rates by any business will vary depending on level of any rate relief awarded, the impact of resolution of any valuation or material change appeals, any over or underpayment and bad debt recovery or debt write off by individual local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245614,"EventID":"S3W-39099","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a difference in the non-domestic rates valuation between like lengths of fibre optic networks between BT and other operators and, if so, for what reasons","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there is a difference in the non-domestic rates valuation between like lengths of fibre optic networks between BT and other operators and, if so, for what reasons.","AnswerText":"Valuations of non-domestic property in Scotland are determined by the independent Scottish assessors. In determining valuation methodology assessors work with closely with their counterparts in the rest of the UK and consider international best practice. The assessors also undertake continual dialogue with a range of businesses and representative organisation, including those from the telecommunications sector. A robust appeal process is in place for any operator to challenge the assessor''s valuation if they do not agree the rate applied. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245615,"EventID":"S3W-39100","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the valuation principles relating to fibre optic networks and what its assessment is of the implications of those principles for extending such ne","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the valuation principles relating to fibre optic networks and what its assessment is of the implications of those principles for extending such networks to remote communities.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39099 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245616,"EventID":"S3W-39101","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has considered encouraging a review of the role of non-domestic rating policy regarding fibre optic networks in order to better support expansion of such netwo","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has considered encouraging a review of the role of non-domestic rating policy regarding fibre optic networks in order to better support expansion of such networks.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39099 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245617,"EventID":"S3W-39102","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for wind farm approvals have been sent to a public local inquiry since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for wind farm approvals have been sent to a public local inquiry since May 2007.","AnswerText":"Since May 2007 the Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals has held 31 public local inquiries to consider proposed wind farm developments. These include appeals for Section 36 wind farm applications made to ministers, applications for wind farms called in by Scottish Ministers and planning appeals to ministers against decisions made by local planning authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245618,"EventID":"S3W-39103","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what applications for wind farm developments it has approved when there has been an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what applications for wind farm developments it has approved when there has been an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage since May 2007.","AnswerText":"Records show that the Scottish Government has consented two windfarms with an outstanding Scottish Natural Heritage objection since May 2007. These are: (1) Mark Hill in South Ayrshire, consented in June 2008, and; (2) Fallago Rig, in the Scottish Borders, consented in November 2010 after two pubic inquires. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245619,"EventID":"S3W-39104","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of applications for wind farm developments has been approved when there has been an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of applications for wind farm developments has been approved when there has been an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage since May 2007.","AnswerText":"Of the 25 applications for wind farm developments determined by the Scottish Government since May 2007, two have been approved with an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245620,"EventID":"S3W-39105","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discretion it has to approve applications for wind farm developments when there is an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage and what factors it must t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discretion it has to approve applications for wind farm developments when there is an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage and what factors it must take into account in making such a determination.","AnswerText":"Scottish Ministers have discretion to approve applications for wind farm developments where there is an outstanding objection from Scottish Natural Heritage if they deem it appropriate to do so after considering that objection and all other representations and material considerations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245621,"EventID":"S3W-39106","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in referring a wind farm application to a public local inquiry, it may specify the grounds (a) on which it is referring the matter and (b) to be considered by th","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in referring a wind farm application to a public local inquiry, it may specify the grounds (a) on which it is referring the matter and (b) to be considered by the inquiry.","AnswerText":"Advice provided by officials to Scottish Ministers will provide factual information on the responses from consultees and a recommendation, both of which inform ministers'' decision whether or not to refer an application to public local inquiry. The minute of appointment of the reporter to a public local inquiry may also provide the reporter with some background on the grounds for holding the inquiry. Scottish Ministers have discretion in the matter of whether or not to limit the scope of a public local inquiry. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245622,"EventID":"S3W-39107","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the “taking into account wider public interest” procedure is an integral part of Scottish Natural Heritage’s consideration of applications for wind farm developme","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the “taking into account wider public interest” procedure is an integral part of Scottish Natural Heritage’s consideration of applications for wind farm developments or is aimed at refining its initial considerations in light of any wider public interest considerations brought to its attention.","AnswerText":"Scottish Natural Heritage''s (SNH) procedure for taking account of the wider public interest (TAWPI) is an integral part of the consideration for all planning cases where SNH is considering an objection, including wind farm proposals. TAWPI applies to all cases where the consideration of national interest indicates that SNH should object, including those cases affecting National Scenic Areas (NSAs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The only exceptions are where a proposal would have a significant effect on the integrity of a Natura site or a proposal could have an effect on the favourable conservation status of a European Protected Species. The TAWPI process does not inform the advice SNH offers, only whether SNH decides to object. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245623,"EventID":"S3W-39108","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether Scottish Natural Heritage is (a) expected or (b) required to engage with applicants and other relevant interests in conducting its “taking into account wider publ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether Scottish Natural Heritage is (a) expected or (b) required to engage with applicants and other relevant interests in conducting its “taking into account wider public interests” procedure.","AnswerText":"Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is not required to consult with other parties when conducting a taking into account wider public interests (TAWPI) assessment. However, the organisation may do so if there is a need to clarify information. The assessment is an internal process which allows SNH to check that any natural heritage impacts are not outweighed by any social, economic or wider environmental benefits of a development proposal. As such, it is for SNH to decide whether engagement with an applicant and other relevant interests would be necessary to help in undertaking an assessment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245624,"EventID":"S3W-39109","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions Scottish Natural Heritage has revised its advice to ministers on wind farm applications after taking into account wider public interests since May 2","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions Scottish Natural Heritage has revised its advice to ministers on wind farm applications after taking into account wider public interests since May 2007.","AnswerText":"None of the taking into account wider public interests (TAWPI) assessments undertaken to date by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has led the organisation to remove an objection. The TAWPI assessment does not alter SNH''s advice; it determines whether or not SNH should object to a development proposal. SNH''s advice on the natural heritage impacts, such as the detailed landscape and visual impacts of a proposal will not be affected by the TAWPI assessment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245625,"EventID":"S3W-39110","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what basis the Dunbeath wind farm application was referred to a public local inquiry.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what basis the Dunbeath wind farm application was referred to a public local inquiry.","AnswerText":"Among other concerns raised, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), a statutory consultee, objected to the proposal and did not withdraw their objection. SNH highlighted concerns about significant adverse impacts on key landscape characteristics of the area and visual amenity. Scottish Ministers determined that in this instance a public local inquiry is the only way to ensure that concerns raised by SNH and others are properly weighed against local and broader economic benefits, the need to generate renewable electricity and wider public interests. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245626,"EventID":"S3W-39111","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what timescale it has set for consideration of the Dunbeath wind farm public local inquiry.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what timescale it has set for consideration of the Dunbeath wind farm public local inquiry.","AnswerText":"The Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals will shortly be writing to all parties involved and who have made representations on the proposed Dunbeath wind farm to confirm arrangements for a pre examination meeting, which is likely to be held in March 2011. Arrangements for any hearing or inquiry sessions will be discussed at this meeting although at this stage, it is anticipated that they will be held in May/June this year and that the reporter will report to Scottish Ministers in late Summer 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245627,"EventID":"S3W-39112","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38385 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, whether it has considered giving the relevant local authority the right to instigate the sal","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38385 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, whether it has considered giving the relevant local authority the right to instigate the sale of the houses.","AnswerText":"This option was considered at an early stage of National Housing Trust development. However, it was decided to allow private developers to determine when to sell the homes, after the minimum required rental period of five years has elapsed. This is because the private sector''s entire equity stake and any return beyond this is at risk in the initiative, unlike the local authority funding which is underpinned fully by a Scottish Government guarantee. Providing the developer with some control over the timing of sales therefore enables them to take decisions to minimise their financial exposure. This consequently also protects the public sector. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245628,"EventID":"S3W-39113","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38384 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, how much funding it will guarantee under the first tranche of National Housing Trust houses.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38384 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, how much funding it will guarantee under the first tranche of National Housing Trust houses.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government will guarantee the total amount of loan finance each local authority is willing to provide towards the purchase of homes under the first tranche of the initiative. This guarantee will ensure that the local authority can continue to pay the interest on its loan finance should there be a shortfall in rental income. It also guarantees that the local authority can repay the capital at the end of the initiative should there be a shortfall on capital receipts when properties are sold. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245629,"EventID":"S3W-39114","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38385 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, whether the receipts from the sale of the houses will go to the relevant local authority, th","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38385 by Alex Neil on 17 January 2011, whether the receipts from the sale of the houses will go to the relevant local authority, the developer or the Scottish Futures Trust.","AnswerText":"The receipts from the sale of the homes will be distributed between partners according to the order set out in the legal agreements for the National Housing Trust initiative. After paying any reasonable costs incurred by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and the Scottish Futures Trust (SFT) in relation to the sale, receipts will firstly be directed towards clearing the local authority debt. Any calls on the Scottish Government Guarantee will then be reimbursed, although the scheme is designed to minimise the risk of any such calls. Once these items are settled receipts will be used to clear any accrued interest on the private sector''s loan note. SFT''s contribution to the SPV''s set-up costs will then be repaid before the private sector recoups its loan note, equity stake and any pre-agreed return beyond this. The remainder will then be paid to a body nominated by the local authority to contribute towards affordable housing provision in the local authority area. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245630,"EventID":"S3W-39115","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what collaboration work in health technology assessment is being undertaken by the Scottish Medicines Consortium and what costs will accrue from such collaborations.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what collaboration work in health technology assessment is being undertaken by the Scottish Medicines Consortium and what costs will accrue from such collaborations.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) assesses newly licensed medicines or treatments for clinical and cost-effectiveness and issues advice to NHSScotland. SMC decisions are made by a panel of experts from different fields including clinicians (medical and pharmacy), public partners, health economists, NHS board Chief Executives and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. The SMC does not undertake formal collaboration with any other health technology bodies, either in undertaking assessments or in sharing or developing methodology. The SMC operates independently from the Scottish Government. Further information about the membership and role of the SMC can be found on their website at www.scottishmedicines.org.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245631,"EventID":"S3W-39116","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will issue guidelines to accident and emergency departments on the sharing of full and non-anonymised data on knife crime with police.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will issue guidelines to accident and emergency departments on the sharing of full and non-anonymised data on knife crime with police.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government wrote to NHS boards in March 2008 providing guidance on information sharing between NHS Scotland and the police at: www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/details.asp?PublicationID=2529. The guidance sets out how NHS boards and police forces should work together to develop a consistent approach to the sharing of information to promote the prevention and detection of crime, while respecting and safeguarding the interests of patients and the public in the confidentiality of personal health information. The guidance, which remains extant, applies to all NHS settings and to all types of crime. Additionally, a number of injury surveillance projects are in operation across Scotland. These involve accident and emergency departments sharing anonymised data with the police on injuries caused by assault. The data is used to improve analysis and understanding of patterns of crime to inform decisions on the deployment of local resources aiming to reduce violence. The Scottish Government will consider the evidence emerging from these projects before deciding whether to provide more specific guidance to NHSScotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245632,"EventID":"S3W-39117","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38295 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 January 2011, on what dates the Scottish Resilience Development Service has coordinated training eve","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38295 by Kenny MacAskill on 13 January 2011, on what dates the Scottish Resilience Development Service has coordinated training events or exercises for responders specifically on managing severe adverse weather conditions since 1 February 2010.","AnswerText":"Since 1 February 2010 the Scottish Resilience Development Service has delivered multi-agency training events for strategic and tactical managers in responder organisations across Scotland on the following dates: | Month | Course Dates | | February 2010 | 3 | | March 2010 | 30 | | April 2010 | 21 and 27 | | May 2010 | 6 x 2, 24 and 25 | | June 2010 | 7, 8, 10, 15 and 30 | | July 2010 | 1, 5, 21 and 29 | | August 2010 | 6, 9, 13, 19 x 2, 24 and 25 | | September 2010 | 1, 13, 14, 20, 29 and 30 | | October 2010 | 22 | | November 2010 | 4, 5, 10 x 2,11, 16, 17, 23 and 25 | | December 2010 | 9 and 15 | | January 2011 | 14, 19, 20, 26 and 27 | These training events provide attendees with the skills required to respond to emergencies irrespective of the cause but scenarios based around severe weather and flooding are included in the training material. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245633,"EventID":"S3W-39118","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to invest in more NHS fast-track diagnostic and treatment centres since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to invest in more NHS fast-track diagnostic and treatment centres since 2007.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government continues to work with NHSScotland to provide a high quality of care which is quick and safe. For example, in 2009 two new £100 million hospitals were opened at Stobhill and at the Victoria in Glasgow which have redesigned their services around the needs of the patient to enhance the quality of healthcare and speed up diagnosis and treatment. We now also have over 650 one-stop clinics operated by NHSScotland which provide a full diagnostic and, where appropriate, treatment service at one visit. Patients referred to a one-stop clinic will typically receive a specialist consultation, undergo the appropriate diagnostic tests, receive results and undergo treatment where appropriate. Where immediate treatment is not feasible the patient should be offered the date for treatment at the clinic. As part of the Scottish Government''s commitment to reduce waiting times, the Health Delivery Directorate''s Improvement Support Team continues to work with all NHS boards to redesign and transform services across Scotland to improve access through all stages of the patient pathway. This work aims to help all NHS boards to deliver the 18 weeks referral to treatment time target that is due to be delivered by end December 2011. The latest published figures for 30 September 2010 showed that patients are effectively receiving an outpatient consultation within 12 weeks, key diagnostic tests within four weeks and inpatient and day case treatment within nine weeks. This clearly shows that patients across Scotland are now experiencing shorter waits for outpatient consultations, tests and treatment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245634,"EventID":"S3W-39119","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to (a) increase the number of NHS physiotherapists and (b) examine the potential to expand other allied health professions since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to (a) increase the number of NHS physiotherapists and (b) examine the potential to expand other allied health professions since 2007.","AnswerText":"Between 2007 and 2010, the number of physiotherapists in NHSScotland has increased by 4.3% and the number of allied health professions (AHPs) has increased by 7.2% over the same period. The Scottish Government has supported a range of recruitment and retention measures. The Workload Measurement and Workforce Planning Programme which examined the existing AHP workforce to ensure it was being used to its full potential and set in place methods, tools and intelligence to develop workforce methodology and practice. These have been rolled out to NHS boards. A number of other recruitment and retention measures for AHPs have also been taken forward focussing on developing appropriate skill mix, succession planning, leadership development and continuous professional development. Implementation of the Framework for Adult Rehabilitation, which is being taken forward by all NHS boards in Scotland, highlights the important role AHPs play in the rehabilitation of older people, people with long term conditions and those needing support to return to work after illness or injury. This framework, together with the increase in the number of AHPs, has delivered significant improvements for service users and their families or carers. The framework may also lead to the need for additional AHPs and their support staff in the future. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245635,"EventID":"S3W-39120","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to deliver more flexible service hours for healthcare services since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to deliver more flexible service hours for healthcare services since 2007.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government introduced two Directed Enhanced Services, Extended Hours Access for GP Practices and Nursing Provision for Extended Hours Access released on 1 April 2008 and 25 June 2008 and these are currently ongoing. These services provided financial support for GP practices to provide pre-booked appointments to their patients outwith the recognised core hours of 8.00am to 6.30pm. In addition, many GP practices demonstrated flexibility by running weekend clinics during 2009 and 2010 to deliver the pandemic and seasonal flu vaccines. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245636,"EventID":"S3W-39121","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance has been issued to NHS boards regarding reducing excessive charges for (a) car parking and (b) other services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance has been issued to NHS boards regarding reducing excessive charges for (a) car parking and (b) other services.","AnswerText":"NHS Circular CEL 38 (2008) confirmed that charges for car parking at NHSScotland operated car parks were abolished with effect from 31 December 2008. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245637,"EventID":"S3W-39122","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to review public transport links to hospitals and with what outcomes.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to review public transport links to hospitals and with what outcomes.","AnswerText":"This is a matter for NHS boards to review as part of their travel planning process. NHS boards are required to follow Health Facilities Scotland guidance document SHTM 07-03: Transport management and car parking which advises NHS boards that an effective travel plan will address the following: employee transport to and from work; employee transport during work time; patient and visitor travel and access to sites; public transport availability; use and type of fleet vehicles; deliveries and contractors; peripatetic/community visits; travel and subsistence rates and rewarding small-engine cars or cycle mileage; the needs of disabled people with a physical, mental and/or visual impairment, and the needs of patients, employees, visitors and may even address the needs of visitors accompanied by young children. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245638,"EventID":"S3W-39123","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to support access to alternative therapies and with what outcomes.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to support access to alternative therapies and with what outcomes.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government recognises that complementary and alternative medicines may offer relief to some people suffering from a wide variety of conditions and leaves it open to NHS boards to provide these therapies based on their assessment of needs in their areas and in line with national guidance about treatment for the condition(s). The treatment of individual patients is a matter of professional judgement and therefore the Scottish Government''s continued position is that the local NHS and clinicians are best placed to make decisions on what treatment is appropriate for their patients, including alternative therapies. The extant guidance on NHS availability of complementary and alternative medicine therapies is the guidance issued to NHS boards in August 2005. The letter, NHS Circular HDL (2005) 37, is available at http://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/mels/HDL2005_37.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245639,"EventID":"S3W-39124","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to support (a) measures to improve access to independent sexual health information and advice services in rural and urban areas and (b)","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to support (a) measures to improve access to independent sexual health information and advice services in rural and urban areas and (b) the role of secondary school nurses in delivering a sexual health strategy and what the outcomes have been.","AnswerText":"In line with our manifesto commitment, the Scottish Government has increased access to sexual health information and advice services across Scotland. Additional funding of £1 million over the years 2008-09 to 2009-10 was provided to help achieve this. As agreed with stakeholders, half of the additional funding for 2008-09 was allocated to NHS boards to assist them to increase access to accurate sexual health information, particularly in rural areas. This funding has been used to create or update local websites and service information, improve public access to sexual health websites and support the provision of information by voluntary organisations. In 2009 the Scottish Government launched the Sexual Health Scotland website, which provides information, help and advice. This can be accessed at: http://www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk. The Scottish Government also provides funding to a number of voluntary organisations throughout Scotland which provide independent sexual health and advice services. In addition, the availability of local drop-in services for young people, offering general health advice, chlamydia testing, pregnancy testing and condoms has increased in line with our National Outcomes 2008-11. The majority of areas are working towards an integrated approach to providing accessible sexual health services for young people, either within school by the school nursing staff, or outwith school, with an emphasis on targeting vulnerable groups of young people. Most nurses working in schools deliver health education programmes on puberty followed by age appropriate information on positive sexual health, including contraception and STIs within secondary schools. Where chlamydia testing or pregnancy testing is included within the health service, the process of setting up clinics has been done in full consultation with teachers, parents, young people and the local authority. With regard to improved health outcomes, it is too early to measure. However, research suggests that young people require access to information and advice in order for them to take responsible decisions on sexual health and relationships. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245640,"EventID":"S3W-39125","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what provision there is for (a) annual health checks and (b) individual health plans for school pupils and how many receive them.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what provision there is for (a) annual health checks and (b) individual health plans for school pupils and how many receive them.","AnswerText":"All NHS boards in Scotland provide a child health programme. The universal programme for child health screening and surveillance is set out in Health for all Children 4: Guidance on Implementation in Scotland. This details the health checks that should be undertaken on entry to primary school, in Primary 7 and in secondary school. Children and young people with identified health needs will have a series of reviews throughout school. Guidance on the Administration of Medicines in Schools was published in 2001 and states that an individual health care plan should be drawn up for every child or young person with health care needs to identify the level and type of support that will be needed at school, including information about response to emergency situations. The Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 (as amended) places duties on education authorities to identify, meet and keep under review the additional support needs and duties on appropriate agencies, including NHS boards, to help an education authority in the exercise of its functions under it. Education authorities, NHS boards and other appropriate agencies should work together to ensure the effective co-ordination and implementation of support to address a child''s or young person''s needs. In line with Getting it right for every child, where more than one agency or service is involved, the child or young person should have one integrated plan in place, which may be made up of different elements, such as the educational or health plans required by the individual. We do not collate information centrally on how many pupils receive individual health plans. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245641,"EventID":"S3W-39126","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to reintroduce school-based dental services since 2007 and how many (a) schools and (b) pupils are covered.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to reintroduce school-based dental services since 2007 and how many (a) schools and (b) pupils are covered.","AnswerText":"Since 2007, the Scottish Government has been working on a number of ways to tackle poor oral health in children. We have launched a number of successful government funded projects across Scotland. One such project is the Childsmile Schools Programme, a school based dental preventative service. This Childsmile programme provides a twice-yearly fluoride varnish application as a preventive treatment for children in P1 and P2. 20% of schools in an NHS board area are included in the programme. Schools are ranked by the proportions of children in P1 and P2 in each school residing in the most deprived local SIMD (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation) quintile. (a) Cumulative Total of Childsmile Schools | NHS Board | Schools Covered by Childsmile 2007-08 to Date* | | Ayrshire and Arran | 34 | | Borders | 13 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 10 | | Fife | 34 | | Forth Valley | 19 | | Grampian | 75 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 143 | | Highland | 46 | | Lanarkshire | 67 | | Lothian | 56 | | Orkney | 1 | | Shetland | 26 | | Tayside | 44 | | Western Isles | 5 | | Total | 508 | Note: *Data from HIC database excluding Greater Glasgow and Clyde total from locally held data. (b) Pupils are covered; 53,421 pupils across Scotland have had at least one fluoride varnish through Childsmile School 2007-08 to date. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245642,"EventID":"S3W-39127","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to solve dental service recruitment and retention problems since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to solve dental service recruitment and retention problems since 2007.","AnswerText":"In the period from 31 March 2007 to 31 March 2010 the number of dentists working in NHS general dental services has increased from 2,474 to 2,847. Access to NHS general dental services in Scotland has increased, and 85% of general dental practices are regarded as NHS committed. The substantial increase in the number of dentists working in NHS general dental services in Scotland has been achieved by the significant steps taken by the Scottish Government to address dental service recruitment and retention problems since 2007. The Scottish Government has: Invested £368.2 million in 2009-10 in NHS general dental services in Scotland; Provided funding of £82 million, over two years, for the Primary and Community Care Premises Modernisation programme. The top priority for this funding is the development of new dental centres for general dental practitioners working in the NHS; Delivered on a manifesto commitment to re-introduce the school based dental service, through the Childsmile programme currently being rolled out across Scotland; and Delivered on a commitment to establish a third dental school in Scotland when the Aberdeen Dental School opened in October 2008. The dental bursary (introduced in 2006) continues to be available to students studying in the three dental schools in Scotland. Students can apply for a bursary of £4,000 per year on condition that they undertake to work in NHS dentistry in Scotland for up to five years following qualification. Approximately 580 students are currently in receipt of the bursary. Financial assistance is also available through the revised Scottish Dental Access Initiative (SDAI) scheme to help dentists to establish or expand practices. Significant financial incentives aimed at encouraging dentists to join NHS boards'' dental lists continue to be available. These include: Remote Areas Allowance; Vocational trainees payments; Payments to dentists joining NHS board dental lists; Commitment payments; Grants to establish new or improve existing vocational training practices; Reimbursement of either full or partial practice rental costs; and Deprived areas enhancements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245643,"EventID":"S3W-39128","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many school nurses there are; how this compares with the number in May 2007, and whether it expects the number to have doubled during the current parliamentary sessio","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many school nurses there are; how this compares with the number in May 2007, and whether it expects the number to have doubled during the current parliamentary session.","AnswerText":"Information for May 2007 is not available. Information is collected as at 30 September each year. National statistics show that the number of school nurses has increased substantially since 30 September 2007, from 385 then to 456 as at 30 September 2010. This is an increase of 71 headcount (18.4%). The whole time equivalent increase is 52.7 wte (19.5%). However, the role of the school nurse should not be seen in isolation as school children are treated by a multi-disciplinary team within the school setting for example public health nurses and these are reported separately. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245644,"EventID":"S3W-39129","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many pupils receive annual fitness checks in school.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many pupils receive annual fitness checks in school.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245645,"EventID":"S3W-39130","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to introduce a presumption against centralisation of core hospital services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to introduce a presumption against centralisation of core hospital services.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to a service that works in serving the best interests of NHS patients. The first step of this government was to reverse the decision to close accident and emergency departments in Ayr and Monklands Hospitals. Since then, the Scottish Government has invested in protecting children''s cancer units in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, neurosurgery centres and services in the Vale of Leven and Inverclyde. All of these decisions have been taken in line with our presumption against centralisation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245646,"EventID":"S3W-39131","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many generalist doctors have been trained in each year since 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many generalist doctors have been trained in each year since 1999.","AnswerText":"Information on the number of general practitioners that have gained Completed Certificate of Training is only available from the year 2000, as detailed in the following table: | Year | Total | | 2000 | 221 | | 2001 | 235 | | 2002 | 228 | | 2003 | 232 | | 2004 | 245 | | 2005 | 222 | | 2006 | 241 | | 2007 | 268 | | 2008 | 248 | | 2009 | 258 | | 2010 | 247 | Source: NHS Education for Scotland. Based on current projected figures, 331 general practitioners will complete their training in 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245647,"EventID":"S3W-39132","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to support the model of rural general hospitals since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to support the model of rural general hospitals since 2007.","AnswerText":"Following the publication of the report Delivering for Remote and Rural Healthcare in May 2008, the Scottish Government established the Remote and Rural Implementation Group (RRIG) to take forward the commitments and forward issues identified; including those around the way that rural general hospitals should deliver their care. RRIG has now completed its two year work programme and published its final report in October 2010. A copy of the report has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52396.). Pages 10 and 11 of that report sets out the model of rural general hospitals which is being followed by NHS Highland, NHS Orkney, NHS Shetland and NHS Western Isles; and a revised model which features as one of the key recommendations for going forward. We have accepted all the RRIG recommendations and will be writing to NHS boards shortly to confirm that our expectation is that boards will implement all the RRIG recommendations and collaborate on them through established governance mechanisms. Performance will be monitored regularly and progress will be discussed with Boards at the annual reviews. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245648,"EventID":"S3W-39133","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to incentivise NHS staff to (a) train and (b) commit to working in rural areas since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps in has taken to incentivise NHS staff to (a) train and (b) commit to working in rural areas since 2007.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-36596 on 11 October 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245649,"EventID":"S3W-39134","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many more local mini-centres co-located with out-of-hours services there are in each NHS board area since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many more local mini-centres co-located with out-of-hours services there are in each NHS board area since May 2007.","AnswerText":"The following table provides details of progress against this action. | NHS Board Area | Details of Local Service | | NHS Highland | Inverness local centre launched in 2005 and co-located with local out-of-hours services and the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) Emergency Medical Dispatch Centre (EMDC). | | NHS Grampian | Service delivered from within Aberdeen Regional Centre. | | NHS Tayside | Dundee local centre launched in 2005 and co-located with local out-of-hours services. | | NHS Lanarkshire | East Kilbride local centre launched in 2005 and co-located with local out-of-hours services. | | NHS Ayrshire and Arran | Kilmarnock local centre launched in 2005 and co-located with local out-of-hours services. | | NHS Dumfries and Galloway | Dumfries local centre launched in 2005 and located within Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary. | | NHS Fife | Scottish Emergency Dental Service (SEDS) launched in 2007 based in Glenrothes. Glenrothes local centre launched in October 2009, co-located with SEDS. | | NHS Lothian | Dedicated NHS 24 nursing resource located in South Queensferry Regional Centre to respond to Lothian based callers, launched in May 2006. The SAS EMDC has been co-located at the centre since 2010. | | NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde | Glasgow local centre launched in June 2008, co-located with Glasgow Out-of Hours Service and Scottish Ambulance Service EMDC in Cardonald. | | NHS Borders | Melrose local centre launched in May 2009 and located within Borders General Hospital. | | NHS Forth Valley | Falkirk local centre launched in December 2008 and co-located with local out-of-hours services. | | NHS Orkney | Local centre was successfully launched in June 2010 within Balfour Hospital. | | NHS Shetland | Working with NHS Shetland and planning to launch a local service in Spring 2011. | | NHS Western Isles | Working with NHS Western Isles and planning to launch a local service in Summer 2011. | The aim of developing local service is to bu","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245650,"EventID":"S3W-39135","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost to the NHS will be when prescription charges are reduced to zero in April 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost to the NHS will be when prescription charges are reduced to zero in April 2011.","AnswerText":"The abolition of prescription charges in Scotland is being fully funded by the Scottish Government and as such will be achieved at no cost to the NHS. The Scottish Government estimates that the final step in abolition on 1 April this year will increase costs from £32 million to £57 million. The £57 million funding has been included within NHS boards'' baseline budgets for 2011-12. Abolishing prescription charges will remove a financial barrier to better health management for many people in Scotland, particularly those on low incomes and who may need regular medicines. Prescription charges can prevent some people from collecting some or all of their medication, and may even deter them from seeing their GP when ill. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245651,"EventID":"S3W-39136","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact the abolition of prescription charges will have on the NHS budget.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact the abolition of prescription charges will have on the NHS budget.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39135 on 10 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245652,"EventID":"S3W-39137","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it did not take part in the study by the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership, published in December 2010, into gaps in cancer survival rates bet","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it did not take part in the study by the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership, published in December 2010, into gaps in cancer survival rates between the United Kingdom and other developed countries.","AnswerText":"Scotland is not taking part in this particular study as it already takes part in a number of other similar projects and regularly contributes to a study comparing survival rates in European countries (EUROCARE). Furthermore, the Scottish Government is investing resources in the development of quality performance indicators and prospective audit data for cancer, as well as continuing to invest in prevention, early detection and better treatment to improving cancer survival rates. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245653,"EventID":"S3W-39138","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for lung cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with th","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for lung cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with the rates in (i) England, (ii) Wales and (iii) Northern Ireland.","AnswerText":"Comparative survival for lung cancer within the United Kingdom is shown in the following table. It is important to note that survival depends on many factors, including data quality, characteristics of the patients and their tumours (case-mix), and health service factors. Survival estimates are also subject to random variation, especially when based on relatively small numbers of patients. Cancer of the Trachea, Bronchus and Lung (ICD-10 C33-C34) Relative survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 26.5 | 7.3 | 27.9 | 7.7 | 29.5 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 22.8 | 5.9 | 24.9 | 5.9 | 27.0 | | Borders | 24.3 | 7.3 | 35.1 | 15.3 | 34.9 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 25.0 | 8.1 | 24.7 | 6.7 | 28.4 | | Fife | 24.5 | 5.4 | 24.2 | 6.7 | 27.8 | | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245654,"EventID":"S3W-39139","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for breast cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for breast cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with the rates in (i) England, (ii) Wales and (iii) Northern Ireland.","AnswerText":"Comparative survival for breast cancer (in females only) within the United Kingdom is shown in the following table. It is important to note that survival depends on many factors, including data quality, characteristics of the patients and their tumours (case-mix), and health service factors. Survival estimates are also subject to random variation, especially when based on relatively small numbers of patients. Cancer of the Female Breast (ICD-10 C50 (females) Relative Survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 Years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 93.3 | 78.3 | 94.7 | 81.5 | 95.2 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 93.0 | 78.7 | 94.2 | 80.6 | 97.2 | | Borders | 94.7 | 83.1 | 91.7 | 80.3 | 93.0 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 94.1 | 81.0 | 97.2 | 85.4 | 94.6 | | Fife | 91.6 | 77.9 | 94.6 | 83.5 | 96.1 | | Cancer of the Colon (ICD-10 C18) Relative Survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 69.8 | 51.4 | 71.7 | 54.8 | 73.3 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 74.2 | 49.4 | 71.3 | 54.5 | 70.1 | | Borders | 64.5 | 47.0 | 71.3 | 50.6 | 66.1 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 64.4 | 47.8 | 74.1 | 56.6 | 73.6 | | Fife | 70.4 | 52.3 | 76.8 | 63.1 | 72.0 | | Forth Val","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245656,"EventID":"S3W-39141","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for rectal cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the survival rate was for rectal cancer in the periods (a) 1995 to 1999, (b) 2000 to 2002 and (c) 2005 to 2007, broken down by NHS board, and how this compared with the rates in (i) England, (ii) Wales and (iii) Northern Ireland.","AnswerText":"Comparative survival for rectal cancer within the United Kingdom is shown in the following table. It is important to note that survival depends on many factors, including data quality, characteristics of the patients and their tumours (case-mix), and health service factors. Survival estimates are also subject to random variation, especially when based on relatively small numbers of patients. Cancer of the Rectum and Rectosigmoid Junction (ICD-10 C19-C20) Relative Survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 Years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 75.0 | 51.7 | 79.1 | 55.2 | 78.4 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 80.3 | 57.5 | 81.8 | 57.5 | 73.8 | | Borders | 74.5 | 47.1 | 78.9 | 47.4 | 83.1 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 75.1 | 53.5 | 83.6 | 56.2 | 76.6 | | Fife | 73.0 | 51.9 | 76.6 | 54.0 | 82.3 | | Comparative survival for ovarian cancer within the United Kingdom is shown in the following table. It is important to note that survival depends on many factors, including data quality, characteristics of the patients and their tumours (case-mix), and health service factors. Survival estimates are also subject to random variation, especially when based on relatively small numbers of patients. Cancer of the Ovary (ICD-10 C56, C57.0-C57.4) Relative Survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 Years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 66.2 | 41.3 | 66.1 | 39.1 | 72.0 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 65.0 | 43.2 | 55.0 | 31.4 | 71.7 | | Borders | 60.9 | 35.6 | 49.5 | 41.5 | 78.5 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 71.1 | 36.0 | 71.9 | 31.3 | 68.2 | | Fife | 66.7 | 41.8 | 82.0 | 49.7 | 67.8 | | Colorectal Cancer (ICD-10 C18-C20) Relative Survival1 (%) at 1 and 5 Years Following Diagnosis for those Diagnosed Aged 15 to 99 in 1995 to 1999, 2000 to 2002 and 2005 to 20072 | Country/Region | Diagnosed 1995 to 1999 | Diagnosed 2000 to 2002 | Diagnosed 2005 to 2007 | | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | 5 Year | 1 Year | | Scotland | 71.6 | 51.5 | 74.3 | 55.0 | 75.1 | | NHS Board Areas3 | | | | | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 76.4 | 52.4 | 74.8 | 55.6 | 71.3 | | Borders | 68.0 | 47.0 | 74.1 | 49.3 | 73.2 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 68.7 | 50.2 | 77.7 | 56.5 | 74.8 | | Fife | 71.4 | 52.2 | 76.7 | 59.9 | 75.9 | | Forth Valley ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245659,"EventID":"S3W-39144","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initiatives are in place to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of (a) lung, (b) breast, (c) colon, (d) rectal, (e) ovarian and (f) bowel cancer.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initiatives are in place to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of (a) lung, (b) breast, (c) colon, (d) rectal, (e) ovarian and (f) bowel cancer.","AnswerText":"Through the Scottish Cancer Taskforce, the Scottish Government is working to improve awareness of possible signs and symptoms of all cancers amongst the public and amongst medical staff. To support GPs to identify and recognise possible cancer symptoms and refer patients with suspected cancer as early as possible, referral guidance was published in 2007, called the Scottish Executive Health Department Letter (2007) 9: Scottish Referral Guidelines for Suspected Cancer, which is available on the Scottish Government website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/quickreferenceguide/suspectedcancer. A wide range of awareness initiatives are delivered across Scotland, for many different types of cancer, by voluntary, healthcare and social work providers. The Scottish Government recognises the valuable contribution made by these organisations in providing information and advice about cancer signs and symptoms. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245660,"EventID":"S3W-39145","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the three pilot programmes in three NHS board areas focussing on patient experiences of cancer services has reported and, if so, whether the results have been pub","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the three pilot programmes in three NHS board areas focussing on patient experiences of cancer services has reported and, if so, whether the results have been published.","AnswerText":"The three experience-based design cancer pilots have not yet formally reported. Each pilot will report at the end of three years, with NHS Glasgow and Greater Clyde and NHS Lothian completing in March 2012 and NHS Grampian in September 2012. Ongoing progress reports are provided by each pilot project at board level and brief six monthly progress reports are provided to the Better Together Programme. An interim evaluation report will be published by the Better Together Programme in March 2011, sharing the key transferable learning messages to date across the three pilots. A summary of this report will also be provided to the Living with Cancer Programme meeting on 17 March 2011, which in turn will be reported to the Scottish Cancer Taskforce meeting in May 2011 ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245661,"EventID":"S3W-39146","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the target to reduce non-attendance at a first outpatient appointment has been achieved.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the target to reduce non-attendance at a first outpatient appointment has been achieved.","AnswerText":"The target to reduce first outpatient appointment did not attends (DNA) to 9.2% was due to be delivered by NHSScotland on 31 March 2010. Published figures show that for the quarter ending 31 March 2010 the DNA rate was 10.5%. This is disappointing particularly in the current economic climate where it is even more vital that NHS boards reduce waste in their budgets. It is every patient''s responsibility to keep their appointment, but we recognise that the NHS has to be flexible in helping make appointments convenient for patients. That is why the Scottish Government has given the NHS in Scotland a three per cent target for efficiency savings and all NHS boards are working on implementing policies to reduce missed appointments. This includes text and phone reminders, more choice over the time of an appointment and a poster campaign reminding patients of their responsibility in using NHS services. The Health Delivery Directorate Improvement and Support Team will continue to work with boards and ensure that good practice is identified and shared across Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245662,"EventID":"S3W-39147","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in achieving the same-day surgery target.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in achieving the same-day surgery target.","AnswerText":"Significant progress has been made against the same day surgery target by all NHS boards over the last year. Performance against the target is 80% overall for NHSScotland at March 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245663,"EventID":"S3W-39148","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made on developing a referral-to-treatment target to drive faster access to psychological therapies and reduce antidepressant prescribing.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made on developing a referral-to-treatment target to drive faster access to psychological therapies and reduce antidepressant prescribing.","AnswerText":"The HEAT targets for 2011-12 were published in the Local Delivery Plan Guidance on 1 December 2010. This included a HEAT target to improve access to mental health services by delivering 18-week referral-to-treatment for psychological therapies from December 2014. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245664,"EventID":"S3W-39149","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it considers the NHS is sharing good practice.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it considers the NHS is sharing good practice.","AnswerText":"The NHS shares good practice through a range of general and topic specific mechanisms. The NHS event held annually, The NHS Education Evidence into Practice website and the annual NHS Awards contribute to the sharing of good practice generally. More specifically, national improvement programmes engage every NHS board to share good practice and test service innovation. These programmes include: The 18 Weeks Referral to Treatment programme, The Mental Health Collaborative, The Long Term Conditions Collaborative, The Scottish Patient Safety Programme and Releasing Time to Care in acute and mental health wards and in community hospitals. These programmes share good practice through a variety of channels, including education and network events, newsletters, good practice publications, case studies and through a supporting website http://www.improvingnhsscotland.scot.nhs.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245665,"EventID":"S3W-39150","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there has been an increase in the number of patients registering with an NHS dentist since 1 April 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there has been an increase in the number of patients registering with an NHS dentist since 1 April 2010.","AnswerText":"In the period from 30 March 2010 to 30 September 2010 there was an increase in NHS general dental service registrations for children from 815,248 to 867,200. In the period from 30 March 2010 to 30 September 2010 there was an increase in NHS general dental service registrations for adults from 2,571,860 to 2,815,576. Data showing the number of NHS general dental service registrations in Scotland is available at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4680.html. Source: Information Services Division, National Services Scotland ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245666,"EventID":"S3W-39151","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initiatives are in place to encourage people to give blood.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initiatives are in place to encourage people to give blood.","AnswerText":"The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) utilise an integrated marketing and communications strategy to recruit and retain blood donors. This includes: Positive proactive PR targeting areas where the blood donation team is visiting; TV and Radio advertising to back up local campaigns, and direct marketing initiatives, to improve recruitment and retention of donors. In addition SNBTS has increased the use of new media and online strategies, such as Facebook which now attracts 800 friends of SNBTS every month; an annual schools programme which recruits around 7,000 new donors each year, and the development of the website, including the donor session finder. \r\n","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245667,"EventID":"S3W-39152","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Ministerial Task Force on Health Inequalities last met and what issues were discussed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Ministerial Task Force on Health Inequalities last met and what issues were discussed.","AnswerText":"The Ministerial Task Force on Health Inequalities last met on Tuesday 13 April 2010. This was the Task Force''s third and final meeting as part of its review of Equally Well. The Task Force considered papers on: Persistent Poverty; Health Inequalities and links to Justice, and the Curriculum for Excellence. It also discussed its report of the review of Equally Well which was subsequently published on 23 June 2010: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/06/22170625/0. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245668,"EventID":"S3W-39153","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2252,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":34,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will assist those businesses that would have applied for the Freight Facilities Grant, which is due to close on 31 March 2011, and are unable to take advantage of ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will assist those businesses that would have applied for the Freight Facilities Grant, which is due to close on 31 March 2011, and are unable to take advantage of the (a) Mode Shift Revenue Support and (b) Waterborne Freight Grant scheme.","AnswerText":"The scale of the UK Government''s cuts in our overall budget means we have had to make tough decisions which include a reduction in our Support for Freight Industry budget in 2011-12. We are not therefore in a position to provide this direct form of assistance to these businesses next year. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245669,"EventID":"S3W-39154","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3061,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many unpaid fixed penalty notices have been written off in each of the last three years, broken down by (a) sheriff court and (b) offence committed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many unpaid fixed penalty notices have been written off in each of the last three years, broken down by (a) sheriff court and (b) offence committed.","AnswerText":"This question relates to operational matters that are the responsibility of the Scottish Court Service (SCS) corporate body. The question has been passed to the Chief Executive of the SCS who will reply in writing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245670,"EventID":"S3W-39155","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when construction work will begin on the A75 Hardgrove to Kinmount improvement scheme and when this work will be completed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when construction work will begin on the A75 Hardgrove to Kinmount improvement scheme and when this work will be completed.","AnswerText":"The unprecedented £1.3 billion cut to our capital budgets has presented us with some difficult choices and we must prioritise existing projects over new as set out in the recent budget statement. Schemes which have completed their statutory process such as the Hardgrove to Kinmount Improvement will be prepared so that they are ready to be taken forward at the earliest possible opportunity. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245671,"EventID":"S3W-39158","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider permanently reducing the ceiling for (a) starting salaries and (b) performance payments for senior civil servants.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider permanently reducing the ceiling for (a) starting salaries and (b) performance payments for senior civil servants.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government follows Cabinet Office guidance on setting starting salaries. In the majority of cases, these are set at or near the minimum of the pay range. On some occasions, a higher starting salary is offered, where this is required to attract a particular skill set. Senior Civil Servants (SCS) pay and performance management operates within a framework set by the Cabinet Office. The framework includes payment ceilings. In 2010, the Scottish Government reduced the ceiling on SCS Performance payments to 50% of the levels awarded the previous year. In 2011, a decision was taken to award no performance payments to the SCS. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245672,"EventID":"S3W-39159","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38673 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, when it expects to have completed its considerations of Strathclyde Partnership for Transp","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38673 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, when it expects to have completed its considerations of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport’s proposals for the modernisation of the Glasgow subway.","AnswerText":"The modernisation of the Glasgow Subway is clearly an important issue, which we must consider with due care. I will report the outcome of our scrutiny when it is complete. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245673,"EventID":"S3W-39160","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, how much has been set aside in its 2011-12 budget as a funding contribution toward Fastlin","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, how much has been set aside in its 2011-12 budget as a funding contribution toward Fastlink.","AnswerText":"Budgets at that detailed level are not disclosed but any contribution towards the cost of Fastlink would come from the £25.1 million Support for Sustainable and Active Travel Budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245674,"EventID":"S3W-39161","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, whether the funding contribution set aside in its 2011-12 budget represents the total cont","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, whether the funding contribution set aside in its 2011-12 budget represents the total contribution it expects to make toward Fastlink and, if not, whether it will provide details of funding contributions in future financial years.","AnswerText":"We have published indicative high-level budget figures for the years 2012-13 to 2014-15. The details of the budgets for these years will be decided after the May 2011 elections. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245675,"EventID":"S3W-39162","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1853,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":16,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-27T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, whether it has advised Strathclyde Partnership for Transport how much it will contribute t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37769 by Keith Brown on 20 January 2011, whether it has advised Strathclyde Partnership for Transport how much it will contribute to Fastlink in (a) total, (b) 2011-12 and (c) future years and, if so, when this advice was given.","AnswerText":"No. Budgets at that detailed level for 2011-12 have not yet been disclosed. Budgets for the years 2012-13 and 2013-14 are indicative high-level figures and the details of the budgets for these years will be decided after the May 2011 elections. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245676,"EventID":"S3W-39163","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2049,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding (a) it and (b) its agencies have given to Scottish Rugby Union in each of the last 10 years for which information is available and what the contractual b","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding (a) it and (b) its agencies have given to Scottish Rugby Union in each of the last 10 years for which information is available and what the contractual basis was for such payments.","AnswerText":"In the three years from 2008-09, Scottish Rugby was awarded £1.415 million direct from the Scottish Government to deliver a wide range of rugby opportunities as part of the government''s Cashback for Communities programme. Scottish Rugby has received significant funding from sportscotland in each of the last ten years to support the implementation of the sport''s development plan. The level of investment is an operational matter and I have asked the Chief Executive of sportscotland, Stewart Harris, to provide the detailed information requested. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245677,"EventID":"S3W-39164","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3O-12785 by Nicola Sturgeon on 27 January 2010 (Official Report, c. 32710), how many full-time equivalent school nurses there were in ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3O-12785 by Nicola Sturgeon on 27 January 2010 (Official Report, c. 32710), how many full-time equivalent school nurses there were in post in each community health partnership area in (a) 2007, (b) 2008 and (c) 2009.","AnswerText":"The information is not centrally available. However, published information showing whole time equivalent of school nurses by NHS board at 30 September 2007 to 2010 is available at : www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Nursing_and_midwifery%202010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245678,"EventID":"S3W-39165","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reasons Argyll and Bute Council’s grant settlement in 2011-12 will decrease by 4.94%, almost double the average reduction for the other local authorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reasons Argyll and Bute Council’s grant settlement in 2011-12 will decrease by 4.94%, almost double the average reduction for the other local authorities.","AnswerText":"Grant funding for Argyll and Bute Council for 2011-12 will reduce by more than the average reduction across all authorities mainly because of two factors within the local government distribution methodology. The most significant is in relation to the distribution of funding for the former ring-fenced Supporting People grant. Updated needs-based indicators for this funding element were applied, as agreed with COSLA. Both COSLA and the Scottish Government are aware that the impact of the updated indicators has raised questions and these are currently the subject of further discussion. The second change is in relation to the Special Islands Needs Allowance element of the distribution methodology. This provides for additional funding for island communities which are not otherwise connected to the mainland (by a road bridge) and where the cost of providing local services is greater as a result. Seil Island is so connected but this had been missed in earlier settlements. It was agreed that this oversight should be corrected from the 2011-12 settlement but that the change should not be applied retrospectively. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245679,"EventID":"S3W-39166","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it expects the impact of the decrease in grant settlement in 2011-12 will be on Argyll and Bute Council services and what its response is to local concerns.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it expects the impact of the decrease in grant settlement in 2011-12 will be on Argyll and Bute Council services and what its response is to local concerns.","AnswerText":"Despite the biggest reduction in public spending imposed on Scotland by any UK Government, the Scottish Government has protected local government''s share of the Scottish Budget. Within that, Argyll and Bute Council will receive the highest per capita revenue funding of any mainland authority in 2011-12, 25 per cent above the Scottish average. Both COSLA and the Scottish Government are currently considering the impact of changes made to the distribution formula which may result in some further adjustment to Argyll and Bute Council''s funding. How the council allocates its funding across its services in response to local concerns is of course a matter for the council itself. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245680,"EventID":"S3W-39167","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of domestic violence were reported to Grampian Police in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of domestic violence were reported to Grampian Police in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010. ","AnswerText":"The following table shows the number of domestic abuse incidents recorded by Grampian police in 2007-08 to 2009-10. The corresponding figures for 2010-11 are not due to be available until November 2011. Domestic Abuse Incidents Recorded by the Police, Grampian Police Force Area,
2007-08 to 2009-10 | | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Total | 3,406 | 3,470 | 3,388 | Statistical bulletins on domestic abuse are available on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/PubDomesticAbuse. 2009-10 is the first year in which data has been submitted based on the date the incident was recorded. Prior to this, data was returned based on the number of incidents which occurred during that time period. Historical data was revised during publication of 2009-10 data to ensure reporting on a consistent basis. While this has not resulted in significant changes to the number of incidents, the data provided above for years prior to 2009-10 will not match those produced in the historical statistical bulletins. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245681,"EventID":"S3W-39168","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many of the 4,783 incidents of domestic abuse recorded by the Violence Reduction Unit in December 2010 were recorded in each (a) police force and (b) local authority ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many of the 4,783 incidents of domestic abuse recorded by the Violence Reduction Unit in December 2010 were recorded in each (a) police force and (b) local authority area.","AnswerText":"This information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245682,"EventID":"S3W-39169","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2008.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2008.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-37570 on 26 November 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245683,"EventID":"S3W-39170","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2009.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2009.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38829 on 7 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. \r\nable","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245684,"EventID":"S3W-39171","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse received a sentence of three months or less in 2010.","AnswerText":"This information will not be available until publication of the Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2010-11 Statistical Bulletin, which is provisionally scheduled for later in 2011. Once confirmed, the publication date will be added to the information presented via the following web link. The dates of all Scottish Government Official and National Statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245685,"EventID":"S3W-39172","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of comments by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) reported in The Sunday Herald on 23 January 2011 that “significant","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of comments by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) reported in The Sunday Herald on 23 January 2011 that “significant reductions to police staff numbers alone are seen to upset the efficient balance between police staff and police with the risk that officers would be used to backfill some police staff roles”.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s priority remains frontline policing. Putting 1,000 additional police officers in our communities has helped to reduce crime to a 32 year low. Our draft budget puts in place the resources to maintain police officer numbers in 2011-12. Police civilian staff also play an important role in keeping Scotland''s communities safer. The work that ACPOS have reported to the Scottish Policing Board over the last year has highlighted significant opportunities for greater efficiency and we are looking to Chief Constables to maximise those opportunities so that reductions in police staff numbers are kept to a minimum and do not impact on frontline policing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245686,"EventID":"S3W-39173","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the statement reported in The Sunday Herald on 23 January 2011 that “If you sack police staff you cut frontline policing”.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the statement reported in The Sunday Herald on 23 January 2011 that “If you sack police staff you cut frontline policing”.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39172 on 7 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245687,"EventID":"S3W-39174","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact a reduction in civilian police staff will have on the roles performed by uniformed police officers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what impact a reduction in civilian police staff will have on the roles performed by uniformed police officers.","AnswerText":"It is for Chief Constables to ensure the operational effectiveness of their force by making best use of the resources available to them, including identifying opportunities to improve processes, streamline structures and make better use of technology. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245688,"EventID":"S3W-39175","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legislation regulates the charges that a local authority can levy on the submission of (a) outline and (b) full planning applications.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legislation regulates the charges that a local authority can levy on the submission of (a) outline and (b) full planning applications.","AnswerText":"The Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications and Deemed Applications) (Scotland) Regulations 2004, as amended, set down the fees for the submission for both planning permission in principle and full planning applications. Where an application requires to be advertised under regulation 20 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2009 then the cost of publishing that notice has to be recovered from the applicant and procedures in this regard are specified in the Town and Country Planning (Charges for Publication of Notices) (Scotland) Regulations 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245689,"EventID":"S3W-39176","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the level of charge that a local authority can levy on the submission of (a) outline and (b) full planning applications is set by regulation and, if so, when the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the level of charge that a local authority can levy on the submission of (a) outline and (b) full planning applications is set by regulation and, if so, when the regulations were last updated.","AnswerText":"Planning application fees are set by Scottish ministers and planning authorities have no discretion to waive or alter fees. The fees for the submission for both planning permission in principle and full planning applications are set down in the Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications and Deemed Applications) (Scotland) Regulations 2004 as amended. These regulations were last amended in August 2010 by SSI 2010/280. Where an application requires to be advertised under regulation 20 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2009 then the cost of publishing that notice has to be recovered from the applicant and procedures in this regard are specified in the Town and Country Planning (Charges for Publication of Notices) (Scotland) Regulations 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245690,"EventID":"S3W-39177","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether each NHS board has an estate management plan.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether each NHS board has an estate management plan.","AnswerText":"Each NHS board in Scotland is currently engaged in the development of a Property and Asset Management Strategy (PAMS) which is a mandatory requirement of the Scottish Government Health Directorates A Policy for Property and Asset Management in NHSScotland, issued under cover of CEL 35 (2010) on 27 September 2010. Prior to the issue of CEL 35 (2010) each NHS board was required to have an agreed Property Strategy under NHS MEL(1999)44 Property Management Policy and Other Matters issued on 5 May 1999. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245691,"EventID":"S3W-39178","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether each NHS board has a plan to tackle the finding of the Audit Scotland report, Asset management in the NHS in Scotland, that there was a £512 million backlog of ma","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether each NHS board has a plan to tackle the finding of the Audit Scotland report, Asset management in the NHS in Scotland, that there was a £512 million backlog of maintenance in the NHS estate.","AnswerText":"In response to the Audit Scotland report Asset management in the NHS in Scotland, Scottish Government Health Directorates has issued NHS CEL 35 (2010) A Policy for Property and Asset Management in NHSScotland. A principal requirement of this policy is that all NHSScotland Holding Bodies must have a Property and Asset Management Strategy (PAMS). A holding body''s PAMS must include targets for improving physical condition, functional suitability and space utilisation of its essential property where that is considered necessary to achieve the policy aims of CEL 35 (2010) and to ensure continuing compliance. This should be expressed as targets for the following year, three years, five years and 10 years. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245692,"EventID":"S3W-39179","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in psychiatric hospitals. ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in psychiatric hospitals. ","AnswerText":"NHS Health Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government will shortly be publishing guidance which will support and encourage a move towards smoke-free environments within mental health settings at a pace which suits the services'' particular needs and circumstances. The guidance offers a step-by-step approach to support the process of engagement with all concerned, including staff and patients who are most directly affected and which will ultimately lead to a reduction in smoking. NHS Health Scotland will undertake a one-off exercise which will provide a snapshot of the status of establishments at the time of the introduction of the guidance. Measures will also be put in place to review progress over time. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245693,"EventID":"S3W-39180","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in prisons.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in prisons.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: Prevalence of smoking within prisons is recorded as part of the prisoner survey. In 2008, prevalence was 79% overall; in 2009, the figure was 76%. The next survey takes place later this year. Stop smoking services are available for prisoners. Since 2006 over 1,500 prisoners have made quit attempts, with a success rate similar to community rates. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245694,"EventID":"S3W-39181","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in hospital grounds.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made in monitoring the reduction of smoking in hospital grounds.","AnswerText":"The decision to move to a completely smoke-free environment, including hospital grounds, is a matter for individual boards to determine. It is their responsibility to ensure that their smoking policies are adhered to and monitored appropriately. I am aware that some NHS boards in their desire to be exemplars in health care have implemented smoking policies that go beyond the requirements of the national legislation. This is praiseworthy and provides a lead for others to follow. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245695,"EventID":"S3W-39182","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34523 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 June 2010, what steps it is taking to ensure that access to electronic patient records is not interr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34523 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 June 2010, what steps it is taking to ensure that access to electronic patient records is not interrupted for any reason.","AnswerText":"Systems and associated networks are designed to be resilient. In the event that there is systems failure NHS boards have business continuity plans and local service continuity plans in place which will be invoked if necessary. This applies to all IT systems including those which deal with electronic patient records. The NHS Scotland Security Policy states that boards will undertake a survey of their information systems and data and make an assessment of the likely security risks, including an evaluation of the likely impact and occurrence of any threats that may disrupt services. Boards then introduce measures to mitigate these risks. These include, but are not limited to, processes such as virus checking, regular patching of operating systems software and the provision of back-up systems. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245696,"EventID":"S3W-39183","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34520 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 June 2010, how many of the NHS boards signed up to the TrakCare patient management system have the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34520 by Nicola Sturgeon on 15 June 2010, how many of the NHS boards signed up to the TrakCare patient management system have the records aggregated at one site. ","AnswerText":"One of the NHS boards signed up to the TrakCare patient management system have the records aggregated at one site. The model being adopted by NHS boards implementing the TrakCare system is one that replaces any disparate electronic patient administrative records with a single integrated design within each board. In parallel, boards have improvement work underway in connection with their paper records. In part this work aims to aggregate paper records in single or fewer sites, whichever is practicable given geography. Longer term work, given the scale of the task, involves digitising (scanning) paper records based on unique Community Health Index number so as to make them available with the patient at whichever point of care. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245697,"EventID":"S3W-39184","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on establishing a national managed clinical network for the treatment of severe and complex obesity.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on establishing a national managed clinical network for the treatment of severe and complex obesity.","AnswerText":"There are currently no plans to establish a national managed clinical network for the treatment of severe and complex obesity. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245698,"EventID":"S3W-39185","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has updated the guidance on the selling of NHS land and buildings.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has updated the guidance on the selling of NHS land and buildings.","AnswerText":"Scottish Government Health Directorates is currently in the final stages of revising the NHSScotland Property Transactions Handbook. The revised guidance is expected to be published within the current financial year. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245699,"EventID":"S3W-39186","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has updated the guidance on the use of disused NHS land or buildings.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has updated the guidance on the use of disused NHS land or buildings.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39185 on 2 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245700,"EventID":"S3W-39187","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34045 by Nicola Sturgeon on 2 June 2010, how many procedures for bariatric surgery were carried out in 2009-10, broken down by NHS ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34045 by Nicola Sturgeon on 2 June 2010, how many procedures for bariatric surgery were carried out in 2009-10, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"The following table shows information on the number of bariatric surgery procedures undertaken, where a main diagnosis of obesity has been recorded, by NHS board of residence in the financial year 2009-10. | NHS Board of Residence | 2009-10 | | Ayrshire and Arran | 33 | | Borders | 1 | | Dumfries and Galloway | - | | Fife | 4 | | Forth Valley | 1 | | Grampian | 15 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 34 | | Highland | 12 | | Lanarkshire | 23 | | Lothian | 35 | | Orkney Islands | 1 | | Shetland Islands | 1 | | Tayside | - | | Western Isles | - | | Scotland | 160 | Source: ISD Scotland (SMR01). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245701,"EventID":"S3W-39188","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34019 by Nicola Sturgeon on 10 June 2010, how many acute occupied bed days in NHS Forth Valley were directly connected to a diagnos","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-34019 by Nicola Sturgeon on 10 June 2010, how many acute occupied bed days in NHS Forth Valley were directly connected to a diagnosis of assault by sharp object in 2009-10. ","AnswerText":"For patients discharged in the year ending 31 March 2010, there were 51 acute occupied bed days in NHS Forth Valley connected to the diagnosis of assault by a sharp object. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245702,"EventID":"S3W-39189","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33216 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 April 2010, what assessment it has made of the effects on the health of children of passive smoking ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33216 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 April 2010, what assessment it has made of the effects on the health of children of passive smoking in cars.","AnswerText":"The smoking ban has undoubtedly reduced exposure to second-hand smoke among children in Scotland, because of greater awareness among their parents about the risks of second-hand smoke. The Scottish Government has not undertaken any formal assessment of the effects on children of passive smoking in cars to date. However, this specific topic is to be considered by the Research and Evaluation sub-group of the Scottish Ministerial Working Group on Tobacco Control which has been set up to identify gaps in research knowledge in relation to tobacco control. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245703,"EventID":"S3W-39190","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33209 by Shona Robison on 15 April 2010, what funds were included in the allocation to local authorities for Choose Life programmes","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-33209 by Shona Robison on 15 April 2010, what funds were included in the allocation to local authorities for Choose Life programmes in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and has been for 2010-11 and how much each authority spent in each year.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to questions S3W-14128 and S3W-14129 on 23 June 2008. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. The information regarding how much each authority spent in each year is not held centrally. Under the single outcome agreement it is a matter for each local authority to decide spend on the basis of local circumstances and local need, within the context of the wide range of local authority services each provide. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245704,"EventID":"S3W-39191","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many absconds from adult medium secure units there have been in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many absconds from adult medium secure units there have been in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"There are two adult medium secure units in Scotland, the Orchard Clinic, Edinburgh and Rowanbank, Glasgow. The Memorandum of Procedure on Restricted Patients defines an abscond as An abscond will have taken place when a restricted patient is absent without authority from a ward, work placement, open supervision (i.e. supervision which does not require the use of physical restraints nor continued oversight), or exceeds his or her authorised suspension of detention, or makes away from an escort. An abscond may be for a brief period of time or for longer. There have been a small number of absconds from these units as follows: 2007: Two from the Orchard Clinic, 2008: One each from the Orchard Clinic and Rowanbank, 2009: One from the Orchard Clinic, 2010: Two from the Orchard Clinic. The Memorandum of Procedure on Restricted Patients defines an escape as An escape will have taken place when a restricted patient breaches a physical barrier, for example, breaks out of a locked ward. No people have escaped from either the Orchard Clinic or Rowanbank in the years 2007, 2008, 2009 or 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245705,"EventID":"S3W-39192","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-31997 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 February 2010, what the (a) maximum, (b) average and (c) median waiting time is for assessment of pe","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-31997 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 February 2010, what the (a) maximum, (b) average and (c) median waiting time is for assessment of people referred to the Scottish Driving Assessment Centre.","AnswerText":"The waiting times for people referred to the Scottish Driving Assessment Service are as follows: | (a) Maximum waiting time | 56 weeks | | (b) Average waiting time | 26.4 weeks | | (c) Median waiting time | 27 weeks | The above figures are based on waiting time from date of referral to first appointment offered between 1 February 2010 and 31 January 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245706,"EventID":"S3W-39193","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-31976 by Adam Ingram on 5 March 2010, what percentage of schools has extended the free fruit scheme beyond primary one and two pupi","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-31976 by Adam Ingram on 5 March 2010, what percentage of schools has extended the free fruit scheme beyond primary one and two pupils, broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"This information can be found in the School Meals Survey published in June 2010 and can be accessed at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/07/06095048/0. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245707,"EventID":"S3W-39194","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many wards have been closed due to (a) norovirus outbreak, (b) hospital-acquired infections and (c) other reasons in each winter since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many wards have been closed due to (a) norovirus outbreak, (b) hospital-acquired infections and (c) other reasons in each winter since 2007.","AnswerText":"Health Protection Scotland monitors and publishes ward closures due to norovirus outbreaks via point prevalence Management Information. Norovirus point prevalence reporting commenced on 7 January 2008. This weekly point prevalence data relates to the number of wards closed at any time on a Monday. This provides an indicator (in as close to real-time as is possible) of the impact norovirus is having on NHSScotland but is not incidence data and can therefore miss some outbreaks, i.e. if an outbreak started on a Tuesday and was over by the Sunday it would not be recorded on the prevalence data. Ward closures occurring on a Monday that are still ongoing the following Monday will be counted twice even though they relate to a single outbreak. It is not possible to aggregate the provided data into an annual total of ward closures. Weekly point prevalence data for 2008 to 2011 is available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52416). Future weekly data for 2011 will be available at: http://www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/haiic/ic/noroviruspointprev.aspx There are no mandatory national surveillance systems for hospital-acquired infections outbreaks occurring in hospitals in NHSScotland. Therefore, it is not possible at a national level to identify ward closures due to hospital-acquired infections or other reasons over the time period requested. NHS board level data would need to be requested from boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245708,"EventID":"S3W-39195","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive in how many GP practices in each NHS board area the Quality and Outcomes Framework funding has (a) increased, (b) remained the same and (c) decreased as a result of the G","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive in how many GP practices in each NHS board area the Quality and Outcomes Framework funding has (a) increased, (b) remained the same and (c) decreased as a result of the GP patient access survey for 2009-10.","AnswerText":"Table 1 shows the number of practices for which total Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) payments for 2009-10 (a) increased by 1% or more, (b) changed by less than 1% and (c) decreased by 1% or more relative to 2008-09. No practice received exactly the same QOF payment in both years. The table is based on data for 1,003 Scottish general practices that were open in both years and for which detailed comparable payments data are held centrally. For context, in each of these years the total number of GP practices in Scotland was around 1,015. Table 2 shows the number of practices for which QOF payments associated specifically with the GP patient experience survey for 2009-10 (indicators PE7 and PE8) (a) increased by 1% or more, (b) changed by less than 1% and (c) decreased by 1% or more relative to 2008-09. In 78% of practices the part of their QOF payment that related directly to the GP patient survey results was higher in 2009-10 than it was for 2008-09. Overall changes in payments made to practices for the 2009-10 year relative to 2008-09 were the product of a number of changes made to the QOF indicator set, the rules used to calculate payments for indicators, and the baseline number of pounds available for each QOF point achieved, as well as variations in practice QOF achievements from year to year. The results of the GP patient experience survey 2009/10 are published at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Health/GPPatientExperienceSurvey The results of the GP patient access survey 2008/09 are published at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/Survey Detailed information on QOF achievements for Scottish general practices is published annually at www.isdscotland.org/qof. Table 1. Change to Total QOF Payments Between 2008-09 and 2009-10 1,2 | NHS Board | Number of Practices1 | (a) Increased by 1% or More | (b) Changed by Less Than 1% | (c) Decreased by 1% or More | | Ayrshire and Arran | 59 | 46 | 6 | 7 | | Borders | 25 | 16 | 3 | 6 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 35 | 23 | 4 | 8 | | Fife | 57 | 38 | 5 | 14 | | Forth Valley | 56 | 26 | 12 | 18 | | Grampian | The results for each of the QOF indicators were derived from combinations of three questions. Therefore, the valid responses for an indicator depended on the sequence of questions being answered, and not just a response rate to a particular question “ which would be higher. For example, those who missed out a question or ticked more than one option in a question were excluded from the analysis for that indicator. The observed valid response rates (as % of the total number sent out) are shown in the following tables. | 2009-10 | (a) Mean | (b) Median | (c) Standard Deviation | | PE7 (48 Hour Access) | 25% | 25% | 5% | | PE8 (Advance Access) | 20% | 21% | 5% | The results from 2008-09 are shown below for comparison: | 2008-09 | (a) Mean | (b) Median | (c) Standard Deviation | | PE7 (48 Hour Access) | 37% | 37% | 8% | | PE8 (Advance Access) | 23% | 24% | 6% | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245710,"EventID":"S3W-39197","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its position on the entitlement of chief constables to deploy Taser weapons to frontline officers extends to the other weapons with the same legal classification ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its position on the entitlement of chief constables to deploy Taser weapons to frontline officers extends to the other weapons with the same legal classification under section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968.","AnswerText":"It is not for the Scottish Government to provide detailed legal interpretation of the provisions in the Firearms Act 1968. Firearms policy and legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245711,"EventID":"S3W-39198","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section 3 of the Firearms Act 1968 on making guns without being registered as a firearms dealer.","AnswerText":"It is not for the Scottish Government to provide detailed legal interpretation of the provisions in the Firearms Act 1968. Firearms policy and legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245712,"EventID":"S3W-39199","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section 24 of the Firearms Act 1968 on the supply of firearms to minors.","AnswerText":"It is not for the Scottish Government to provide detailed legal interpretation of the provisions in the Firearms Act 1968. Firearms policy and legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245713,"EventID":"S3W-39200","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section 4 of the Firearms Act 1968 on conversion of weapons.","AnswerText":"It is not for the Scottish Government to provide detailed legal interpretation of the provisions in the Firearms Act 1968. Firearms policy and legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. \r\n\r","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245714,"EventID":"S3W-39201","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2892,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36630 by Kenny MacAskill on 21 October 2010, whether it considers that police officers are not bound by the prohibition in section 25 of the Firearms Act 1968 on the supply of firearms to anyone who is drunk or insane.","AnswerText":"It is not for the Scottish Government to provide detailed legal interpretation of the provisions in the Firearms Act 1968. Firearms policy and legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245715,"EventID":"S3W-39202","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much (a) milk and (b) other dairy produce it purchases annually; by whom it is supplied, and what the farms of origin are.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much (a) milk and (b) other dairy produce it purchases annually; by whom it is supplied, and what the farms of origin are.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s in-house contract was awarded to Sodexo in 2010. Last year Sodexo supplied just under 107,000 litres of liquid milk and 17,176 litres of dairy products, all of which was supplied by a network of 70 assured Scottish farms through the Graham''s dairy in Bridge of Allan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245716,"EventID":"S3W-39203","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":8,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body how much milk it purchases annually; by whom it is supplied; what the farms of origin are, and what average price is paid per litre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body how much milk it purchases annually; by whom it is supplied; what the farms of origin are, and what average price is paid per litre.","AnswerText":"From January 2010 to December 2010, the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body purchased 26,197 litres of milk. The milk is supplied by Graham''s Family Dairy, which is based in Bridge of Allan. The milk supplied is procured from 70 Farm Assured farms all located within Scotland. Due to the milk being supplied via our catering service provider, we are unable to state the average price paid per litre as this information is commercially sensitive. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Johnstone","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245717,"EventID":"S3W-39204","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it holds on the farmers who produce the milk that it purchases and how much they are paid on average per litre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it holds on the farmers who produce the milk that it purchases and how much they are paid on average per litre.","AnswerText":"The contract to supply milk to the Scottish Government was awarded to Sodexo in 2010 who procure milk from Graham''s Dairy, its supplier in Scotland, in accordance with competitive practise. Sodexo''s contractual relationship with their suppliers is commercially confidential. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245718,"EventID":"S3W-39205","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the cost of production for dairy farmers supplying milk to the public sector and the price that they receive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the cost of production for dairy farmers supplying milk to the public sector and the price that they receive.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government collects milk data on (i) utilisation and (ii) average price in order to meet the requirements of EU Regulation 479/2010. This data shows that for 2010 the average price per litre was 24.36 pence for all types of milk and dairy products supplied to the public and private sectors by the liquid milk and cheese processors. We do no collect data on production costs. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245719,"EventID":"S3W-39206","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on how much milk is purchased annually by (a) the NHS and (b) each local authority and how much each spends on (i) milk and (ii) other dairy produ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on how much milk is purchased annually by (a) the NHS and (b) each local authority and how much each spends on (i) milk and (ii) other dairy products.","AnswerText":"The total annual expenditure on dairy produce, including milk, through the health sector is estimated to be £4,220,000. The total annual expenditure by local authorities on dairy produce, including milk, through the education and social work sectors is estimated to be £4,377,800. \r\nmso-fa","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245720,"EventID":"S3W-39207","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has produced guidance for public bodies on purchasing milk produced in Scotland and how much of the milk procured for the public sector is labelled with the (a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has produced guidance for public bodies on purchasing milk produced in Scotland and how much of the milk procured for the public sector is labelled with the (a) country of origin and (b) name of the supplying farm.","AnswerText":"There is no guidance that has been produced specifically for milk as it is not possible to specify in contracts milk from Scotland or similar. New guidance has been produced, Catering for Change - January 2011, which shows how to make full use of the flexibility available to public bodies to legally include sustainability issues in their food procurement activity. Milk is sourced through competitive contracts awarded by public bodies. Milk companies will have full traceability of the source of milk supplied. Wisemans is by some margin the largest supplier and their labelling identifies Scottish milk but not the name of the supplying farm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245721,"EventID":"S3W-39208","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of milk produced in Scotland is (a) purchased by (i) supermarkets, (ii) caterers and (iii) public sector organisations in Scotland and (b) sold in the (i)","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of milk produced in Scotland is (a) purchased by (i) supermarkets, (ii) caterers and (iii) public sector organisations in Scotland and (b) sold in the (i) United Kingdom and (ii) rest of the European Union.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not collate data on the market utilisation and final sale point of milk produced in Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245722,"EventID":"S3W-39209","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2345,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":56,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-28T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the cost of production for dairy farmers supplying cheese to the public sector and the price that they receive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the cost of production for dairy farmers supplying cheese to the public sector and the price that they receive.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39205 on 10 February 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245723,"EventID":"S3W-39210","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in establishing the (a) incidence and (b) prevalence of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in establishing the (a) incidence and (b) prevalence of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders.","AnswerText":"An expert clinician, Dr Maggie Watts, Public Health Consultant with Ayrshire and Arran NHS Board has been appointed to help develop a policy on addressing foetal alcohol spectrum disorders. This will be developed in partnership with policy colleagues from across the Scottish Government and will focus mainly on the prevention of alcohol exposed pregnancies. The Scottish Government is funding a four-year surveillance research project in children under six years of age to estimate the incidence and epidemiology of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome. The project is being carried out by the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Edinburgh. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245724,"EventID":"S3W-39211","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its response is to the circle of care proposal in Melting the Iceberg of Scotland’s Drug and Alcohol Problem: Report of the Independent Enquiry.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its response is to the circle of care proposal in Melting the Iceberg of Scotland’s Drug and Alcohol Problem: Report of the Independent Enquiry.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government welcomes this independent report and its key messages that recovery from drug and alcohol misuse is absolutely possible and that every person in Scotland has a part to play in reviewing their attitudes and behaviours and by contributing to the wider debate about how we collectively address these problems. Our approach to supporting the recovery of those with existing problems is firmly focused on the needs of the individual, including their housing, mental health, family relationships and employment needs. We will continue to work with the alcohol and drug partnerships, who commission local services, to ensure that individuals are empowered to make decisions on their care and to involve others, including family members, in supporting their recovery. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245725,"EventID":"S3W-39212","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many non-medical prescribers (a) have completed the appropriate course to allow them to become independent prescribers, (b) are registered to prescribe and (c) are pr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many non-medical prescribers (a) have completed the appropriate course to allow them to become independent prescribers, (b) are registered to prescribe and (c) are prescribing in the field of drug and alcohol treatments as either supplementary or independent prescribers.","AnswerText":"NHS Education for Scotland (NES) supports non-medical independent prescribing programmes for relevant NHS staff. The courses run to different timescales therefore the data available reflect this. NHS NES has advised that, as at February 2010, 2,196 nurses and midwives had completed the training programme; as at November 2010, 390 pharmacists had completed the training programme; and, as at February 2011, 30 optometrists had completed the training programme. Successful completion of the independent prescribing training programme enables the healthcare professional to register as a prescriber with the relevant professional body. Data on all active registrations is not held centrally. The total number of non-medical prescribers who are prescribing in the field of drug and alcohol treatments as either supplementary or independent prescribers is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245726,"EventID":"S3W-39213","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have issued their governance arrangements to permit non-medical staff qualified to prescribe to do so in the field of drug and alcohol treatment.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have issued their governance arrangements to permit non-medical staff qualified to prescribe to do so in the field of drug and alcohol treatment.","AnswerText":"This information is not available centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245727,"EventID":"S3W-39214","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in establishing the efficacy of a social norms approach to drug and alcohol education and preventive work in schools and colleges.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in establishing the efficacy of a social norms approach to drug and alcohol education and preventive work in schools and colleges.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is not establishing the efficacy of a social norms approach to drug and alcohol education and preventative work in schools and colleges. The Scottish Government is aware of ongoing research and debate, such as the work of Scotland''s Futures Forum on Approaches to Alcohol and Drugs in Scotland. Under Curriculum for Excellence learners develop their understanding of the use and misuse of alcohol and drugs including recognition of the impact of popular culture, the media and peer groups on their feelings and actions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245728,"EventID":"S3W-39215","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, when the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland is expected to publis","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, when the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland is expected to publish a report on the progress made under the Enhanced Tobacco Sales Enforcement Programme.","AnswerText":"The Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland expect to publish the report by the end of February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245729,"EventID":"S3W-39216","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, what the reason is for the delay to the report on progress made under the Enhanced Tobacc","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, what the reason is for the delay to the report on progress made under the Enhanced Tobacco Sales Enforcement, which was due to be published in 2010.","AnswerText":"The reason for the delay was the extended absence and subsequent resignation of the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS) National Co-ordinator who is responsible for compiling the report. The appointment of an interim co-ordinator has meant that this work can be completed to enable the report to be published by the end of February. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245730,"EventID":"S3W-39217","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, whether the Minister for Public Health and Sport will update the Parliament on current st","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-35505 by Shona Robison on 24 August 2010, whether the Minister for Public Health and Sport will update the Parliament on current statistics from local authorities on the Enhanced Tobacco Sales Enforcement Programme.","AnswerText":"A report compiled by the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland which provides details of local authorities'' engagement with the Enhanced Tobacco Sales Enforcement Programme has now been published. Copies of the report will be made available through the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52522). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245731,"EventID":"S3W-39218","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2185,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":2,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the report of the short-life working group on school meal and clothing grant provision was not published until 22 months after it was completed.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the report of the short-life working group on school meal and clothing grant provision was not published until 22 months after it was completed.","AnswerText":"As noted in the answer to question S3W-38465 on 26 January 2011, consideration of the report took place in the context of the Draft Budget 2011-12. The report was then published once ministers concluded consideration of the recommendations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245732,"EventID":"S3W-39219","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when a report on the responses to its consultation on Housing: Fresh Thinking, New Ideas will be published.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when a report on the responses to its consultation on Housing: Fresh Thinking, New Ideas will be published.","AnswerText":"Homes Fit for the 21st Century: The Scottish Government''s Strategy and Action Plan for Housing in the Next Decade: 2011-2020 was published on 4 February 2011. Copies are available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52409). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245733,"EventID":"S3W-39220","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress there has been in establishing common housing registers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress there has been in establishing common housing registers.","AnswerText":"The Common Housing Register (CHR) Support Service''s latest position study shows there were 18 operational CHRs in 2010. This compares with the position study for 2007 which showed there were 11. The 2010 CHR position study can be accessed at: 2010 CHR Position Study (SHBVN, August 2010). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245734,"EventID":"S3W-39221","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the implementation of common housing registers has led to a more accurate assessment of demand for social rented housing.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the implementation of common housing registers has led to a more accurate assessment of demand for social rented housing.","AnswerText":"In areas which operate a common housing register there is no longer any duplication across housing lists and this therefore provides a more accurate measure of housing demand within that area. However as not all areas currently have a common housing register there is still likely to be an element of double counting when looking at numbers on housing lists for Scotland as a whole. In order to maintain accurate and up to date lists, social housing providers are required to regularly review their lists to ensure that they include only those who still require a social house. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245735,"EventID":"S3W-39222","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget of the Energy Assistance Package was in 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget of the Energy Assistance Package was in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38652 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245736,"EventID":"S3W-39223","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2009-10 Energy Assistance Package budget was spent.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the 2009-10 Energy Assistance Package budget was spent.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38652 on 20 January 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245737,"EventID":"S3W-39224","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation provisions under chapter 7 of the Charities and Trustees Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 will come into force.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation provisions under chapter 7 of the Charities and Trustees Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 will come into force.","AnswerText":"The Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 (Commencement No. 5) Order 2011 was made on 18 January 2011. This order brings into force all the provisions relating to Scottish charitable incorporated organisations (SCIO) under Chapter 7 of the 2005 act. The order can be found at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2011/20/made. Sections 50, 52 and 64 of the 2005 act came into force on 21 January 2011 for the purpose of allowing Scottish Ministers to make regulations setting out further provision in relation to SCIOs. Sections 50 and 52 come into force for all other purposes on 1 April 2011. Sections 49, 51, 53 to 55, 62 and 63 also come into force on 1st April 2011. Sections 56 to 61 of the Act come into force on 1 January 2012. The Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisations Regulations 2011, which are subject to negative procedure, were laid before the Parliament on 28 January 2011. The regulations can be found at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2011/44/made. The Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisations (Removal from Register and Dissolution) Regulations 2011 (ISBN 978-0-11-101211-16), which are subject to affirmative resolution, were laid in draft before the Parliament on 28 January 2011. The draft regulations can be found at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/sdsi/2011/9780111012116. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245738,"EventID":"S3W-39225","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-01-31T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money it has given to the National Autistic Society in each year since 2007 and for what purpose.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much money it has given to the National Autistic Society in each year since 2007 and for what purpose.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has made the following payments to the National Autistic Society: 2008-09 - £20,599.02 2009-10 - £21,216.99 2010-11 - £21,768.63 These payments were made to the National Autistic Society, in relation to Independent schools such as Daldorch House School, which is managed by the National Autistic Society, to cover the increase in employers'' pension contributions to the Teachers Superannuation Scheme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245739,"EventID":"S3W-39226","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has commissioned any (a) agencies, (b) organisations or (c) services to produce Scottish history books or books containing elements of Scottish history for you","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has commissioned any (a) agencies, (b) organisations or (c) services to produce Scottish history books or books containing elements of Scottish history for young people and, if so, what the titles are; whether it provided guidelines as to the content, and what the total cost was.","AnswerText":"No such books have been commissioned by the Scottish Government. Online resources on Scotland''s History have been developed by Learning and Teaching Scotland in partnership with a wide range of organisations and professional historians. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245740,"EventID":"S3W-39227","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with literature and other products for the purpose of encouraging a sense of natio","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with literature and other products for the purpose of encouraging a sense of national identity and at what total cost.","AnswerText":"Taking pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity is one of the Scottish Government''s National Outcomes. It is supported by a wide-ranging and complex set of policies, programmes and initiatives across sectors. For example, the quality of our landscapes and cityscapes, our heritage, our education system, our languages, our sporting achievements and the place of key events in the Scottish calendar all help define Scots national and cultural identity. To collate and quantify our combined efforts towards encouraging a sense of national identity could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245741,"EventID":"S3W-39228","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has a policy of encouraging a sense of national identity among young children; whether it has provided schools with literature or guidelines to achieve this en","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has a policy of encouraging a sense of national identity among young children; whether it has provided schools with literature or guidelines to achieve this end, and, if so, at what total cost.","AnswerText":"Taking pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity is one of the Scottish Government''s national outcomes. This is supported by a range of policies, programmes and initiatives across sectors and in partnership with a range of organisations. The Scottish Government has not provided literature or guidelines to specifically encourage a sense of national identity amongst young people. In education, developing knowledge and understanding of Scotland and our place in the world is among the entitlements of a broad general education within Curriculum for Excellence. Within broad curricular guidance teachers are empowered to deliver creative, challenging and relevant learning experiences to meet the needs of young people in a modern Scotland and fast changing world. Resources have been provided to support learning about Scotland''s history, for example, and Homecoming Scotland 2009 offered children and young people exciting opportunities to celebrate and explore Scotland''s rich culture, history and heritage. Homecoming was also celebrated at the 2009 Scottish Education Awards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245742,"EventID":"S3W-39229","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in each of the last five years; how ma","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in each of the last five years; how many have (i) received a lifetime ban and (ii) had their licence removed, and what the average period of disqualification was.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Persons Convicted of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving1 in Scottish Courts, 2005-06 to 2009-10 | Causing Death by Dangerous Driving | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | 25 to 50 | | | | | | | Convicted | 10 | 4 | 10 | 10 | 10 | | Disqualified | 10 | 3 | 9 | 10 | 6 | | Average disqualification2 (months) | 90 | 6 | 80 | 88 | 76 | | 51 to 75 | | | | | | | Convicted | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 2 | | Disqualified | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 2 | | Average disqualification2 (months) | 0 | 0 | n/a | 30 | 60 | Notes: 1. Where main offence. 2. Excludes disqualifications for an indeterminate period. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245743,"EventID":"S3W-39230","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years; how many have (i) received a lifetime ban and ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years; how many have (i) received a lifetime ban and (ii) had their licence removed, and what the average period of disqualification was.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. Persons Convicted of Dangerous Driving in Scottish Courts1, 2005-06 to 2009-10 | Dangerous Driving | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | 25 to 50 | | | | | | | Convicted | 412 | 478 | 512 | 435 | 378 | | Disqualified | 383 | 398 | 410 | 404 | 351 | | Of which: Disqualified for life | 6 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | | Average disqualification (months)2 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 26 | | 51 to 75 | | | | | | | Convicted | 31 | 44 | 50 | 49 | 43 | | Disqualified | 26 | 33 | 40 | 44 | 36 | | Of which: Disqualified for life | 0 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245744,"EventID":"S3W-39231","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in each of the last five years in the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of causing death or serious injury through dangerous driving in each of the last five years in the Lothian and Borders Police force area; how many have (i) received a lifetime ban and (ii) had their licence removed, and what the average period of disqualification was.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Persons Convicted of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving1 in Lothian and Borders, 2005-06 to 2009-10 | Causing Death by Dangerous Driving | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | 25 to 50 | | | | | | | Convicted | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | | Disqualified | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | | Average disqualification2 (months) | n/a | n/a | 0 | n/a | 0 | | 51 to 75 | | | | | | | Convicted | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | | Disqualified | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | | Average disqualification2 (months) | 0 | 0 | n/a | 0 | 0 | Notes: 1. Where main offence. 2. Excludes disqualifi","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245745,"EventID":"S3W-39232","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years in the Lothian and Borders Police force area; h","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people aged (a) 25 to 50 and (b) 51 to 75 have been convicted of dangerous driving in each of the last five years in the Lothian and Borders Police force area; how many have (i) received a lifetime ban and (ii) had their licence removed, and what the average period of disqualification was.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. There were no disqualifications for life during this period. Persons Convicted of Dangerous Driving in Lothian & Borders1, 2005-06 to 2009-10 | Dangerous Driving | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | 25 to 50 | | | | | | | Convicted | 62 | 51 | 50 | 40 | 45 | | Disqualified | 60 | 47 | 37 | 36 | 42 | | Average disqualification (months) | 19 | 26 | 22 | 22 | 38 | | 51 to 75 | | | | | | | Convicted | 3 | 8 | 11 | 5 | 4 | | Disqualified | 3 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 1 | | Average disqualification2 (months) | n/a | 36 | 13 | 12 | n/a | Notes: 1. Where main offence. 2. Excludes disqualifications for an indeterminate period. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245746,"EventID":"S3W-39233","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what regulations are in place regarding the conduct of charity street workers; what limitations the regulations place on their conduct, and whether it will review the reg","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what regulations are in place regarding the conduct of charity street workers; what limitations the regulations place on their conduct, and whether it will review the regulations with the aim of ensuring that people are not pressurised to give to charity.","AnswerText":"Public charitable collections are currently regulated by section 119 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, and the Public Charitable Collections (Scotland) Regulations 1984, as amended. Local authorities are responsible for issuing licences for street collections and can specify certain conditions, such as the conduct of collectors. The Scottish Government is currently developing a new scheme for regulating public benevolent collections and intends to consult widely on this later in 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245747,"EventID":"S3W-39234","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many registered charity street workers there are and how many are on commission.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many registered charity street workers there are and how many are on commission.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245748,"EventID":"S3W-39235","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an estimate of how much students from England who have attended Scottish universities and colleges have contributed to the economy during their st","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an estimate of how much students from England who have attended Scottish universities and colleges have contributed to the economy during their studies in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has no plans to make such an estimate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245749,"EventID":"S3W-39236","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an estimate of how much students from England who have attended Scottish universities and colleges have paid in council tax in each of the last fo","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an estimate of how much students from England who have attended Scottish universities and colleges have paid in council tax in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"Students are exempt from paying council tax in Scotland, where they met the following criteria: aged either under or over 20 and are enrolled at a prescribed educational establishment for the purpose of undertaking a specified course of education which they are normally required to attend for at least 24 weeks in each academic year and which requires on average at least 21 hours of study, tuition or work experience in each of those weeks. Further guidance on how council tax applies to students in Scotland can be found at the following web address: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library3/localgov/ctst-00.asp. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245750,"EventID":"S3W-39237","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with Saltire flags for purposes other than celebrating St Andrew’s day in each of ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with Saltire flags for purposes other than celebrating St Andrew’s day in each of the last four years and what the total cost was.","AnswerText":"The Saltire is Scotland''s national flag and dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the most recognisable symbols of Scotland and encourages a sense of pride amongst Scots. Therefore it is natural that the Scottish Government uses it for promotional purposes at large scale national and international events, such as St Andrew''s Day, Scotland Week and Burns Night. The use of Saltire flags at St Andrew''s Day celebrations started under the previous administration. In line with the Scottish Government''s guidance on public procurement, securing value for money is crucial to the wider objective of delivering high quality, cost-effective public services. The Scottish Government procured Saltire flags in bulk in order to secure the best value for money and keep costs lower. The cost of purchasing Saltire flags in the last four years is provided in the following table. 2006-07 figures are included for reference. | 2006-07 | £132,000 | | 2007-08 | £173,750 | | 2008-09 | £89,600 | | 2009-10 | £52,200 | | 2010-11 | £0* | Note: *There were no Saltire Flags purchased in 2010-11. Surplus stock from the previous year was used. The average annual expenditure (£78,888) on promotional flags as described in the table is lower than that spent by the previous administration, which spent £132,000 in financial year 2006-07. These flags are distributed as and when required at events in Scotland and overseas, including our annual St Andrews Day celebrations. To breakdown the agencies, organisations, public bodies and services provided with Saltire flags and occasions when they have been used for purposes other than celebrating St Andrews Day is unavailable because this could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245751,"EventID":"S3W-39238","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it provided with literature for the purpose of celebrating St Andrew’s day 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it provided with literature for the purpose of celebrating St Andrew’s day 2010.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Executive has transferred operational responsibility for the delivery of St Andrew''s day and winter festivals commitments to EventScotland from 2010 onwards. I have asked EventScotland to respond. Its response is as follows: EventScotland arranged for the distribution of Scotland''s Winter Festivals Events Guides to the agencies, organisations and public bodies listed in the following table. | Visitor Information Centres/Sites | Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Fort William, Glasgow, Inverness, St Andrews, Aberfeldy, Aberfoyle, Aviemore, Ballater, Balloch, Isle of Arran, Callander, Campbeltown, Isle of Mull, Dumfries, Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh International Airport, Falkirk Wheel, Glasgow International Airport, Gretna, Inveraray, Jedburgh, Kirkwall, Lerwick, Oban, Peebles, Perth, Pitlochry, Portree, Rothesay, Southwaite Service Area, Stirling, Stornoway, Stranraer, Arbroath, Ayr, Blairgowrie, Bowmore, Braemar, Brechin, Crieff, Drumnadrochit, Dunkeld, Durness, Elgin, Hawick, Kelso, Kirkcaldy, Kirkcudbright, Lanark, Linlithgow, North Berwick, Kessock, Paisley, Sumburgh Airport, Melrose. | | Scottish Government Offices | Victoria Quay, St Andrew''s House, Atlantic Quay, Europa Building. | It also arranged for copies of the events guide to be distributed to sites across Scotland. A full list is available direct from EventScotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245752,"EventID":"S3W-39239","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with literature and other products for the purpose of encouraging a sense of natio","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what (a) agencies, (b) organisations and (c) public bodies and services it has provided with literature and other products for the purpose of encouraging a sense of national identity since 2007 and what the total cost was.","AnswerText":"As covered in the answer provided to question S3W-39227 on 25 February 2011, taking pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity is one of the Scottish Government''s National Outcomes. It is supported by a wide-ranging and complex set of policies, programmes and initiatives across sectors. For example, the quality of our landscapes and cityscapes, our heritage, our education system, our languages, our sporting achievements and the place of key events in the Scottish calendar all help to define Scots national and cultural identity. To collate and quantify our combined efforts towards encouraging a sense of national identity could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245753,"EventID":"S3W-39240","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can provide assurances that any future changes to police support services, such as the Scottish Police Services Authority, will be made in consultation with po","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can provide assurances that any future changes to police support services, such as the Scottish Police Services Authority, will be made in consultation with police boards and the procurator fiscal.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government launched a consultation on the future of Scottish policing on 10 February 2011 in order to widen the debate and build consensus about how we can maintain our excellent police service in the face of unprecedented cuts from Westminster. No decisions have been taken and we will continue to engage with all key stakeholders, including police authorities, and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, as we consider how our police service should respond to the challenges of the 21st century. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245754,"EventID":"S3W-39241","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Justice met the Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police to discuss the future of forensic services in Scotland before a decision w","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Justice met the Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police to discuss the future of forensic services in Scotland before a decision was reached and whether the cabinet secretary asked the chief constable to meet him.","AnswerText":"I has regular one to one meetings with the Chief Constables of all eight forces to discuss a range of matters. I gave careful consideration to the written submissions received from all eight forces in response to the Scottish Police Services Authority''s forensics modernisation options paper published in July last year, prior to a decision being made. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245755,"EventID":"S3W-39242","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many meetings the Cabinet Secretary for Justice had with (a) each chief or deputy chief constable, (b) each police board and (c) the director of the Scottish Police S","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many meetings the Cabinet Secretary for Justice had with (a) each chief or deputy chief constable, (b) each police board and (c) the director of the Scottish Police Services Authority to discuss the future of forensic services in Scotland prior to a decision being made.","AnswerText":"I meet regularly with chief constables and conveners of police boards to discuss a range of matters. I chair the Scottish Policing Board which is attended by chief constables and conveners. In April 2010, the Chief Executive of the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) gave a presentation to the Policing Board which covered the forensics modernisation programme. He also has regular meetings with the Convener of the SPSA. I gave careful consideration to the written submissions received from all eight forces and the two police boards who responded to the SPSA options paper published in July 2010, prior to a decision being made. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245756,"EventID":"S3W-39243","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the director of the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) Forensic Services stated a preference to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice for any of the options in","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the director of the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) Forensic Services stated a preference to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice for any of the options in the SPSA modernisation options paper prior to being informed of the recommended option in September 2010.","AnswerText":"The provision of forensic science services is the responsibility of the SPSA. It was the SPSA board which took the decision about which of the options, set out in the SPSA forensics modernisation option paper, it would recommend to me in its letter of 30 September 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245757,"EventID":"S3W-39244","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3815,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of Fife Council’s proposal to close the Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of Fife Council’s proposal to close the Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre.","AnswerText":"Yes. Ministers have received a number of letters on this matter. This is a matter for Fife Council to determine as the provision of outdoor education is a matter for local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245758,"EventID":"S3W-39245","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3815,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has held discussions with Fife Council regarding the proposal to close the Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has held discussions with Fife Council regarding the proposal to close the Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre.","AnswerText":"No discussions have taken place with Fife Council. The provision of outdoor education is a matter for local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245759,"EventID":"S3W-39246","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3815,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of the (a) articles in the local press, (b) correspondence to elected representatives and (c) the 4,500 people who have signed up to a Facebook page i","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of the (a) articles in the local press, (b) correspondence to elected representatives and (c) the 4,500 people who have signed up to a Facebook page in opposition to Fife Council’s proposal to close the Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39244 on 21 February 2011. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245760,"EventID":"S3W-39247","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3815,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on reductions in local authority spending that impact on children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on reductions in local authority spending that impact on children.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has offered local authorities a financial package of over £11.5 billion which, if accepted, represents a reduction in funding of just 2.6%, a significantly lesser reduction than is being experienced across the Scottish Government as a whole or by local authorities south of the border. Managing current budgetary pressures is requiring very difficult decisions to be made, both nationally and locally. Local authorities are usually better placed than the Scottish Government to judge and take expenditure decisions on local services and facilities, including those for children, according to local views and priorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245761,"EventID":"S3W-39248","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3815,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has given local authorities guidance on what facilities and services should be protected when considering reductions in spending.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has given local authorities guidance on what facilities and services should be protected when considering reductions in spending.","AnswerText":"It is for each local authority to allocate the financial resources available to it on the basis of its statutory obligations and local needs and priorities. In doing so, local authorities will of course take account of the terms agreed between the Scottish Government and COSLA''s leadership for the 2011‘12 local government finance settlement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245762,"EventID":"S3W-39249","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average waiting time was to see a hearing specialist in each of the last 12 months, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average waiting time was to see a hearing specialist in each of the last 12 months, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"Information on audiology services is collected on an aggregated form. Consequently, it is not possible to provide the information requested. However, information on the median wait for first appointment with a specialist is provided in the following table. Waiting time information for audiology services is relatively new data and is currently still under development. As the information collection system is fairly new there are data quality issues around this information and figures should be treated with caution. ISD is working with all NHS boards to improve data quality. NHSscotland: Median Wait for First Appointment with a Specialist for the Quarters Ending March, June, September and December 2010 | NHS Board | March (weeks) | June (weeks) | September (weeks) | December (weeks) | | Ayrshire and Arran | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | | Borders | 11 | 6 | 6 | 9 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 1 | 3 | 7 | 12 | | Fife | 10 | 8 | 7 | 7 | | Forth Valley | 13 | x | 22 | 24 | | Grampian | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde(a) | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6 | | Highland(b) | x | 11 | 11 | 12 | | Lanarkshire(c) | 0 | 1 | 6 | 4 | | Lothian | x | These leaflets are available to download from the NHS Health Scotland website at: http://www.healthscotland.com/topics/health-topics/screening/breast.aspx. NHS boards throughout Scotland run local initiatives to help improve informed uptake of breast screening. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245764,"EventID":"S3W-39251","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support it has given to GPs to increase the uptake of breast screening in deprived areas.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what support it has given to GPs to increase the uptake of breast screening in deprived areas.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Breast Screening Service works closely with GP practices and local NHS boards in advance of screening in their area. All NHS boards undertake local awareness raising in the areas where mobile vans are timetabled to visit. This often includes meetings with staff at GP practices to encourage attendance. Information packs, including posters, are provided to NHS boards and GP practices and they are encouraged to display these to improve informed uptake locally. Posters are also displayed in local supermarkets and the service is made as accessible as possible by stationing mobile screening vans in convenient local locations particularly targeting deprived areas. Other activities that have been supported nationally to improve uptake have included distribution of a DVD targeted for women with learning difficulties. The DVD was designed for use by health professionals or carers with women. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245765,"EventID":"S3W-39252","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what estimate it has of the possible increased risk of breast cancer resulting from shift working.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what estimate it has of the possible increased risk of breast cancer resulting from shift working.","AnswerText":"Data on the number of people having an increased risk of breast cancer resulting from shift working is not held centrally. We are aware of a number of published studies suggesting links between shift working and breast cancer, many of which are captured in the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) monograph available at: http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monographs/vol98/index.php. However, evidence of an association is inconclusive and recently published papers which have examined the epidemiological evidence differ in their interpretation of the importance of shift-work as a causative factor in breast cancer. If individuals have any concerns, they should discuss these with their GP in the first instance. There are steps people can take to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer, for example, being more active, keeping bodyweight within healthy limits and limiting alcohol consumption. The Scottish Government is implementing a wide ranging programme of actions to help people to make healthier lifestyle choices. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245766,"EventID":"S3W-39253","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Scotland's Healthy Working Lives on the possible adverse health effects of shift working.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Scotland's Healthy Working Lives on the possible adverse health effects of shift working.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Executive has regular communications with the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives in relation to general health and wellbeing in the workplace. The Centre makes information available to employers and employees on shift working through its website and advice line. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245767,"EventID":"S3W-39254","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to improve the understanding by teenage girls of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to improve the understanding by teenage girls of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine.","AnswerText":"To support the HPV vaccination programme a major awareness raising campaign was funded by the Scottish Government. This campaign has run since the launch of the vaccination programme in 2008. A range of information materials have been produced and made available to girls and parents about the vaccination. All girls eligible for the HPV vaccine are provided with an information leaflet, either by their school prior to vaccination or from their NHS board if they have left school. Information leaflets are also available for health care professionals and parents and carers of girls eligible for vaccination. A website, www.fightcervicalcancer.org.uk, has been specifically created to support the vaccination programme. The website contains a range of information materials in addition to electronic versions of the leaflets that have been produced. A free NHS helpline number which girls can call for impartial advice and information is also available. In addition to this national activity many NHS boards will themselves undertake local awareness raising activity to promote the benefits of the vaccine. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245768,"EventID":"S3W-39255","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reduction in salt consumption has been as a result of voluntary agreements with the food industry in the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the reduction in salt consumption has been as a result of voluntary agreements with the food industry in the last five years.","AnswerText":"A survey of sodium intake was conducted in Scotland in 2006 to measure progress towards the Scottish Dietary Targets. The mean estimated salt intake was found to be 9.1g per day (10.6 and 7.6 g per day for men and women respectively). A UK survey in 2008 showed a reduction in the UK''s average daily salt consumption to 8.6g. In 2009, a second survey was commissioned to measure any change from 2006 in Scotland. The 2009 sodium survey is ongoing. The report of this survey was submitted for peer review in December 2010 it is expected that the report will be published later in 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245769,"EventID":"S3W-39256","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what targets it has agreed with the Food Standards Agency regarding the reduction of the intake of salt.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what targets it has agreed with the Food Standards Agency regarding the reduction of the intake of salt.","AnswerText":"There are two sets of salt targets, population targets and industry targets. The agreed population target is to reduce sodium intake of the Scottish population to 100mmol per day or 6g salt/day. The Scottish Dietary Targets were first set out in Eating for Health: Diet Action Plan for Scotland and have since been reiterated in the Scottish Government''s publications Healthy Eating, Active Living (2008), Recipe for Success National Food and Drink Policy (2009) and Preventing Overweight and Obesity in Scotland a Route Map Towards Healthy Weight (2010). In 2006 the Food Standards Agency introduced voluntary salt reductions for industry across 80 categories of food, for achievement by 2010. Through a review in 2008 it was found that a number of retailers had already met these targets. Therefore, some of the 2008 targets were revised and a further version to create more challenging targets were set for achievement by 2012. You can find out more about the targets at: http://www.food.gov.uk/scotland/scotnut/salt/saltreduction. These industry targets remain in place in Scotland. The population-based Scottish dietary targets are currently monitored by the FSA urinary sodium survey. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245770,"EventID":"S3W-39257","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken or will undertake research into the beneficial impact on bee populations of the bans imposed on the use of neonicotinoid pesticides that have be","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken or will undertake research into the beneficial impact on bee populations of the bans imposed on the use of neonicotinoid pesticides that have been introduced in France, Slovenia, Italy and Germany.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government takes issues related to bee populations very seriously and monitors developments in relation to pesticides and insects carefully. To develop an understanding of these issues the Scottish Government has contributed to a £1.8 million study led by the University of Dundee on An investigation into the synergistic impact of sublethal exposure to industrial chemicals on the learning capacity and performance of bees, which is part of the UK wide £10 million Insect Pollinators Initiative. Bans imposed on the use of neonicotinoid pesticides in other member states can result from a number of different reasons, for example Germany and Slovenia have had labelling issues, whereas Italy and France have imposed bans as a precautionary measure. It is too early to assess the impact of such bans on bee populations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245771,"EventID":"S3W-39258","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received since 2008 regarding the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on crops and what the terms of such representations were.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has received since 2008 regarding the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on crops and what the terms of such representations were.","AnswerText":"Since 2008 the Scottish Government has received four parliamentary questions and twenty-two letters about neonicotinoid pesticides on crops. In general, this correspondence expressed concerns over the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, and the potential impact on wildlife. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245772,"EventID":"S3W-39259","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken research since 2008 into the impact on bees of the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on crops in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has undertaken research since 2008 into the impact on bees of the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on crops in Scotland.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39257 on 24 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. Regulations regarding active substances in pesticides are initially evaluated at European Community level and then, if the substance meets safety requirements, may be authorised at member state level. The UK has stringent procedures in place before a pesticide can be sold or used (which include assessments of the toxicity of each product and the ways in which spray operators, the public or environment, in particular honey bees, may be exposed to it and, checks to ensure the risks that can arise from use of the product is not unacceptable). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245773,"EventID":"S3W-39260","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to upgrade the A96.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to upgrade the A96.","AnswerText":"We are continuing to improve the A96. We are taking forward schemes within the current programme, including bypasses to both Fochabers and Mosstodloch and junction improvements at Threapland. In the longer term, the Strategic Transport Projects Review has recommended upgrading the A96 to dual carriageway between Inverness and Nairn as well as other enhancements, such as a bypass at Nairn and a new Inveramsay Bridge. Early design work has commenced to identify preferred solutions for these schemes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245774,"EventID":"S3W-39261","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what options are available to (a) farmers and (b) crofters to protect their livestock from predation by wild animals and birds.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what options are available to (a) farmers and (b) crofters to protect their livestock from predation by wild animals and birds.","AnswerText":"Currently, farmers and crofters can claim support for the provision of shelters for stock in such areas which makes them less accessible to bird predators, for example, through the Restructuring Agricultural Businesses Option under Rural Priorities. A number of other deterrents like flying kites, scarecrows, flickering tapes etc can be used but all of these need backed up by a regular presence of people and physical scaring. In areas where these methods aren''t working or where they are impractical, there is recourse to using legal methods to minimise serious damage for those species of predator which can be legally controlled. The legislation that protects all wild birds, including sea eagles and ravens, as well as badgers already contains provisions to allow licences to be issued to control these species for the purpose of preventing serious damage to livestock. General licence No.2/2010, issued by the Scottish Government, authorises any person to kill or take certain species of wild birds in accordance with specific conditions for the purpose of the prevention of serious damage to livestock. For those species not covered by General licence No.2/2010, individual licences may be sought from the Scottish Government to kill or take any wild bird species, or badgers, for the same purpose. In considering any such licence application the Scottish Government would have to be satisfied that a licence was necessary to prevent serious damage and that there was no satisfactory alternative. Consideration would also be given to the impact of the licence on the conservation status of the species for which control is sought. Foxes may be controlled under the existing legislation without the need for a licence providing that permission has been granted from the landowner and subject to meeting the relevant animal welfare requirements and firearms provisions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245775,"EventID":"S3W-39262","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its response is to concerns that too few options are available to farmers and crofters to protect their livestock from predation by wild animals and birds.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its response is to concerns that too few options are available to farmers and crofters to protect their livestock from predation by wild animals and birds.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government believes that existing legislation in the Wildlife and Countryside Act already provides sufficient provisions for farmers, crofters or any other person to legally control certain species for the purpose of preventing serious damage to livestock. Farmers and crofters can also use scaring and protective measures, some of which have funding available to support them through Rural Priorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245776,"EventID":"S3W-39263","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what studies it is conducting of the predation of farmers’ and crofters’ livestock by wild animals and birds.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what studies it is conducting of the predation of farmers’ and crofters’ livestock by wild animals and birds.","AnswerText":"Studies into eagle (both golden and sea) predation of lambs have been carried out in Lochalsh; Mull; Benbecula, and Wester Ross since the 1980s. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is currently not planning any further studies, but will respond to any serious issues which arise in future. The Scottish Government and SNH annually advise on predator and livestock incidents, primarily in relation to lambs, and issue licences where appropriate e.g. raven incidents. A new management scheme is being developed by SNH taking advice from the Sea Eagle Management Review Group. Membership of the group, chaired by SNH, includes representatives from the Scottish Government, the Forestry Commission Scotland, the Scottish Rural Properties and Business Association, the Scottish Gamekeepers Association, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the National Farmers Union Scotland, the Scottish Crofting Federation, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust. The management scheme, which is planned to be launched this spring, will be available across the range of sea eagles and include measures targeted towards protection of livestock. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245777,"EventID":"S3W-39264","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it continues to support the reintroduction of sea eagles given that evidence has suggested that limited supplies of live or fresh prey in Scotland have be","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it continues to support the reintroduction of sea eagles given that evidence has suggested that limited supplies of live or fresh prey in Scotland have been a factor in the reduction of the breeding performance of golden eagles.","AnswerText":"The sea eagle was driven to extinction by human persecution over 90 years ago. It is one of our most spectacular native birds and the reintroduction programme is a mechanism to allow population recovery. The sea eagle is one of 32 species within Scottish Natural Heritage''s Species Action Framework endorsed by the Scottish Government and other government agencies. There are differences in territory selection between golden eagles and sea eagles in Scotland. Sea eagles generally nest at lower levels than golden eagles and prefer to nest in trees where they are available and close to the coast or lochs. Sea eagles also eat a broader diet with a higher proportion of sea birds and water birds as well as fish, whereas golden eagles eat a higher proportion of terrestrial species such as rabbits and hares. In the areas of western Scotland where both species occur the sea eagle population continues to increase whilst there have been some local increases in golden eagle numbers over the same time period. This means that neither food supplies, available nest sites or competition between the species is significantly impacting on either population, therefore there is no reason for the Scottish Government to withdraw its support for the reintroduction of sea eagles to Scotland in line with its biodiversity targets. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245778,"EventID":"S3W-39265","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the commencement order for the provision in section 157 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010, Vacant dwellings: use of information obtained for council tax purposes, w","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the commencement order for the provision in section 157 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010, Vacant dwellings: use of information obtained for council tax purposes, will be made.","AnswerText":"Section 157 will be commenced as soon as is practicable in the next parliamentary session following consultation with COSLA and local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245779,"EventID":"S3W-39266","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have died from bowel cancer in each year since 1999, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have died from bowel cancer in each year since 1999, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"Data on the number of people who died from bowel cancer, in each year since 1999, are available for Scotland by NHS board on the Information Services Division website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/1425.html. The most recent year for which numbers are available is 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245780,"EventID":"S3W-39267","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3763,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38738 by Shona Robison on 26 January 2011, what percentage of shops that underwent test purchasing failed on both the first and sec","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38738 by Shona Robison on 26 January 2011, what percentage of shops that underwent test purchasing failed on both the first and second exercises and what action was taken.","AnswerText":"The percentage of shops that underwent test purchasing and failed on both the first and second exercises were as follows: | Year | Failed both Visits | | 2008-09 | 5% | | 2009-10 | 9% | | April to September 2010 | 9% | Premises that failed both visits are the subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal. Outcomes were as follows | Year | Fined | Fiscal Fine | Fiscal Warning | No Proceedings | Guilty Admonished | Non Court Disposal | Pending | | 2008 | 27% | 0 | 42% | 19% | 12% | 0 | 0 | | 2009 | 35% | 12% | 12% | 23% | 0 | 4% | 14% | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245781,"EventID":"S3W-39268","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide details of all meetings between cabinet ministers and the Scottish-Islamic Foundation since 1 January 2009, including the location and those (a) p","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide details of all meetings between cabinet ministers and the Scottish-Islamic Foundation since 1 January 2009, including the location and those (a) participating and (b) observing.","AnswerText":"No meetings have taken place between Scottish Government cabinet ministers and the Scottish-Islamic Foundation since 1 January 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245782,"EventID":"S3W-39269","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it was made aware that the auditors of the Scottish-Islamic Foundation had resigned.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it was made aware that the auditors of the Scottish-Islamic Foundation had resigned.","AnswerText":"This is entirely a matter between the Scottish-Islamic Foundation and its auditors. There was no requirement to notify the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245783,"EventID":"S3W-39270","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-15067 by Fergus Ewing on 3 September 2008, whether the grant conditions attached to the funding allocation of £215,000 to the Scott","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-15067 by Fergus Ewing on 3 September 2008, whether the grant conditions attached to the funding allocation of £215,000 to the Scottish-Islamic Foundation have all been adhered to.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is satisfied that grant conditions attached to the funding were adhered to. With regard to the IslamFest project, in line with the conditions attached to the grant, unused funds totalling £128,583.90 were repaid to the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245784,"EventID":"S3W-39271","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many speeding offenders have been detected at speeds that fall within the parameters of eligibility for the Speed Awareness Course in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many speeding offenders have been detected at speeds that fall within the parameters of eligibility for the Speed Awareness Course in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245785,"EventID":"S3W-39272","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Scots have been offered places on speed awareness courses in England after being caught speeding in England and unable to attend such a course in Scotland in eac","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many Scots have been offered places on speed awareness courses in England after being caught speeding in England and unable to attend such a course in Scotland in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245786,"EventID":"S3W-39273","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what consideration it has given to supporting speed awareness courses in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what consideration it has given to supporting speed awareness courses in Scotland.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has given a commitment in the Road Safety Framework to consider if the introduction of a speed awareness course would be an appropriate contribution to road safety in Scotland. This is a medium term commitment with a timescale of between two and five years from the publication of the framework which was in June 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245787,"EventID":"S3W-39274","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Scotland is the only part of the United Kingdom that does not offer drivers speed awareness courses as an alternative to prosecution for low-end speeding ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Scotland is the only part of the United Kingdom that does not offer drivers speed awareness courses as an alternative to prosecution for low-end speeding offences.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has given a commitment in its Road Safety Framework to consider if speed awareness courses would be an appropriate contribution to road safety in Scotland. As part of this process it will consider research which has been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of such courses. Notwithstanding this, the decision on whether a speed awareness course would be an appropriate means of case disposal would lie with the Lord Advocate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245788,"EventID":"S3W-39275","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-01T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38650 by Alex Neil on 26 January 2011, whether the fact that the accounts of the Scottish-Islamic Foundation were qualified by the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38650 by Alex Neil on 26 January 2011, whether the fact that the accounts of the Scottish-Islamic Foundation were qualified by the auditors are sufficient grounds for the Scottish Government to seek the return of all funding granted to that organisation.","AnswerText":"The qualifications in the Scottish-Islamic Foundation''s accounts did not highlight any issues in relation to the use of Scottish Government funding. Therefore the qualifications were not sufficient grounds to seek the return of all funding granted by the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245789,"EventID":"S3W-39276","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the usefulness of homeopathy in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the usefulness of homeopathy in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","AnswerText":"Homoeopathy in the NHS is used only by registered health care professionals, integrated within their wider practice. It is reported as useful, both in specialist secondary care and in the 50% or so of general practices in Scotland which prescribe homoeopathy (with the use in those under 16 years doubling between 2000 to 2003). There may be debate about the scientific mechanism underpinning the results obtained, with respect to the relative contribution of the holistic consultation process, the action of the homoeopathic remedy, and placebo effects, but the results are clear, with research showing high levels of safety, patient satisfaction, consultation quality, patient enablement, and useful outcomes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245790,"EventID":"S3W-39277","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the cost-effectiveness of homeopathy in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the cost-effectiveness of homeopathy in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","AnswerText":"In primary care, costs will relate to the cost of the remedy, which can be cheaper than the cost of orthodox drugs. Practitioners have also noted a reduction in side effects and dependency risks in some cases. In secondary care in Scotland, homoeopathy is only employed within a broader integrative care approach, with surveys showing both enhanced wellbeing and symptom reduction across a broad range of long term conditions, and a resultant reduction in NHS costs through reduced GP and hospital visits and repeat prescriptions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245791,"EventID":"S3W-39278","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers homeopathy to have a place in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers homeopathy to have a place in relation to the Scottish Government’s integrative approach to patient care.","AnswerText":"Homoeopathy can contribute to the Scottish Government''s integrative approach to patient care. We recognise that complementary or alternative therapies, including homoeopathy, may offer relief to some people suffering from a wide variety of conditions. Insights from the individualised homoeopathic approach have contributed to the work of the Centre for Integrative Care in Glasgow, which has also learned from the earlier work of the Glasgow Homoeopathic Hospital. The emergence of integrative principles has in turn helped contribute to the current emphasis in our quality strategy on person centred care, and on enabling partnerships with patients through empathetic consultations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245792,"EventID":"S3W-39279","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37848 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 November 2010, what its position is on whether the withdrawal of homeopathic services in NHS Lothian","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37848 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 November 2010, what its position is on whether the withdrawal of homeopathic services in NHS Lothian is consistent with “person-centredness and compassion” and “a holistic approach to people’s healthcare needs.”","AnswerText":"My understanding is that NHS Lothian has not taken a final decision about the future of local homoeopathic services. I have made it clear that I fully expect the board to engage with all local stakeholders as it further develops its plans. I have been advised that NHS Lothian is due to embark on a period of public consultation on this issue before it makes any final recommendation on the future of the service. I would hope that the board, as part of its consultation, would take account of the information provided in these answers about the value of homoeopathy as an aspect of our approach to integrative care. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245793,"EventID":"S3W-39280","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1862,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":37,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that a shift towards personalised services, as outlined in the Better Health, Better Care: Action Plan, should include homeopathic options.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that a shift towards personalised services, as outlined in the Better Health, Better Care: Action Plan, should include homeopathic options.","AnswerText":"HDL(2005)37 indicates that a GP or hospital clinician may refer a patient for alternative treatment if satisfied of the value of the treatment and the competence of the practitioner. That advice remains extant. It is consistent with the person centred ambition in our quality strategy, which wants to see Mutually beneficial partnerships between patients, their families and those delivering healthcare services which respect individual needs and values and which demonstrate compassion, continuity, clear communication and shared decision-making. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245794,"EventID":"S3W-39281","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it is monitoring the implementation by each NHS board of the report, Getting to GRIPS with Chronic Pain in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it is monitoring the implementation by each NHS board of the report, Getting to GRIPS with Chronic Pain in Scotland.","AnswerText":"Taking forward the recommendations in the GRIPS (Getting Relevant Information on Pain Services) report forms the basis of the work of the steering group on chronic pain, which we have set up with NHS Quality Improvement Scotland and which is chaired by our lead clinician for chronic pain. The lead clinician currently reports to the Scottish Government Health Directorates'' Long Term Conditions Programme Board on progress relating to the chronic pain action in our Long Term Conditions Action Plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245795,"EventID":"S3W-39282","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what pain management services there are in each NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what pain management services there are in each NHS board.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) has however asked each NHS board to provide information about its pain management services for inclusion on the chronic pain community website that will be launched at the inaugural event of the Scottish Pain Research Community on 31 March 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245796,"EventID":"S3W-39283","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have sent patients to pain management programmes outside Scotland and how much this cost each board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have sent patients to pain management programmes outside Scotland and how much this cost each board.","AnswerText":"The number of people referred to pain management programmes outside Scotland, during the period 1 April 2010 to 4 February 2011, and the cost to each NHS board, are given in the following table: | NHS Board | Number Referred | Cost | | NHS Ayrshire and Arran | 3 | £50,591 | | NHS Fife | 1 | £9,627 | | NHS Forth Valley | 2 | £16,472 | | NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 2 | £16,471 | | NHS Grampian | 8 | £89,875 | | NHS Highland | 2 | £13,850 | | NHS Lanarkshire | 1 | £9,547 | | NHS Tayside | 6 | £55,146 | Source: National Services Division, NHS National Services Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245797,"EventID":"S3W-39284","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients are offered a multidisciplinary pain management programme after attending a local pain clinic, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients are offered a multidisciplinary pain management programme after attending a local pain clinic, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245798,"EventID":"S3W-39285","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it issues to ensure the independence and impartiality of witness statements.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it issues to ensure the independence and impartiality of witness statements.","AnswerText":"Guidance is not issued directly by the Scottish Government, since these are operational matters for the police, other reporting agencies who prepare witness statements and prosecutors. Detailed guidance for police officers entitled Disclosure in Criminal Proceedings “ Manual of Guidance has been prepared by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) in consultation with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. This material is publicly available and can be found at: http://www.acpos.police.uk/Documents/Policies/CJ_ACPOSDisclosure_in_CriminalProceedingsManual_of_GuidanceV2NPM.pdf Chapter nine of the guidance deals specifically with witness statements. It is clear in stating the importance of obtaining statements from all witnesses and the requirement to accurately record, retain and review this information before revealing it to the Crown. A training package devised by ACPOS which emphasises the importance of accurate statement taking by police officers has now been delivered to all police officers in Scotland. The Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010 will place current disclosure practices on a statutory footing. Section 164 of the Act will require the Lord Advocate to issue a code of practice in relation to that part of the act. This is currently under development and will be laid before the Parliament. The code will include guidance on the taking of statements. The police, prosecutors and other reporting agencies that engage in the investigation of crime and sudden deaths and submit reports to Procurators Fiscal, must have regard to the code of practice in undertaking their functions. In addition section 54 of the 2010 Act permits the prosecutor to give a witness a copy of their statement, which will provide a further safeguard in ensuring accuracy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245799,"EventID":"S3W-39286","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it ensures that police officers completing witness statements do so impartially and without consulting with colleagues.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it ensures that police officers completing witness statements do so impartially and without consulting with colleagues.","AnswerText":"The requirements for the preparation of witness statements are set down in detailed operational guidance prepared by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland in consultation with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS). This requires that witness statements obtained by the police should be accurate, contain detail of all matters of significance to the case and as far as possible should reflect the words of the witness. This guidance is clear that all statements should be checked for accuracy by the originating officer before being submitted electronically to COPFS. Where a police officer is submitting a statement relating to their own involvement then this must be prepared and confirmed as being accurate by that officer. Further information about this operational guidance is provided in the answer to question S3W-39285 on 24 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245800,"EventID":"S3W-39287","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1782,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":59,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether procurators fiscal have a responsibility to examine the content and impartiality of witness statements recorded by police officers.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether procurators fiscal have a responsibility to examine the content and impartiality of witness statements recorded by police officers.","AnswerText":"Procurators Fiscal have a responsibility to consider the content of all information which is provided to them by the police and other reporting agencies in the course of a criminal case, including available witness statements. The Crown is also under an obligation to disclose proactively, witness statement information in their possession to the defence. The approach to dealing with witness statements is outlined in Chapters 4, 13, 14 and 15 of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service Disclosure Manual. This detailed guidance is publicly available and can be accessed at: http://www.copfs.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Publications/Resource/Doc/7/0000624.pdf Operational guidance also exists between the Crown and the Association of Chief Police Officers. Further information about this material is provided in the answer to question S3W-39285 on 24 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s web site, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245801,"EventID":"S3W-39288","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the age-standardised mortality rate from prostate cancer has been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the age-standardised mortality rate from prostate cancer has been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"Deaths data in Scotland is sourced from General Register Office for Scotland; Data is supplied annually in September. The most recent calendar year of data currently available is 2009. Age standardised mortality rates for prostate cancer by NHS board area of residence is available for calendar years 1997 to 2009. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52500) - Table (a) Ref: IR2011-00326. Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS). Data extracted: September 2010. Age standardised mortality rates for prostate cancer by Scottish parliamentary constituency of residence for calendar years 1997 to 2009. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52500) - Table (b) Ref: IR2011-00326. Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS). Data extracted: September 2010. More comprehensive data on prostate cancer can be found on the Information Services Division website at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/1488.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245802,"EventID":"S3W-39289","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many deaths from prostate cancer there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many deaths from prostate cancer there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"Deaths data in Scotland is sourced from General Register Office for Scotland; Data is supplied annually in September. The most recent calendar year of data currently available is 2009. Number of deaths from prostate cancer by NHS board area of residence for calendar years 1997 to 2009. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre
(Bib. number 52499) - Table (a) Ref: IR2011-00445. Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS). Data extracted: September 2010. Number of deaths from prostate cancer by Scottish parliamentary constituency of residence, calendar years 1997 to 2009. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre
(Bib. number 52499) - Table (b) Ref: IR2011-00445. Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS). Data extracted: September 2010. More comprehensive data on prostate cancer can be found on the Information Services Division website at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/1488.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245803,"EventID":"S3W-39290","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) age-standardised incidence for prostate cancer and (b) number of diagnoses of prostate cancer there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) age-standardised incidence for prostate cancer and (b) number of diagnoses of prostate cancer there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (i) NHS board and (ii) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"Data on newly diagnosed cancers in Scotland are recorded on the Scottish Cancer Registry. The most recent calendar year of data currently available is 2008. Incidence (number of registrations) and age-standardised incidence rates of prostate cancer by NHS board area of residence for calendar years 1997 to 2008. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre
(Bib. number 52498) - Table (a) Ref: IR2011-00325. Source: Scottish Cancer Registry, ISD. Data extracted: February 2011. Incidence (number of registrations) and age-standardised incidence rates of prostate cancer by Scottish parliamentary constituency of residence for calendar years 1997 to 2008. A copy of the table has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre
(Bib. number 52498) - Table (b) Ref: IR2011-00325. Source: Scottish Cancer Registry, ISD. Data extracted: February 2011. More comprehensive data on prostate cancer can be found on the Information Services Division website at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/1488.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245804,"EventID":"S3W-39291","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"The data requested is not routinely collected or held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245805,"EventID":"S3W-39292","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of reports made by prostate cancer patients regarding their treatment and care and what steps are being taken to addressing variations experie","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of reports made by prostate cancer patients regarding their treatment and care and what steps are being taken to addressing variations experienced.","AnswerText":"The Better Together Programme, Scotland''s national patient experience programme, will be reviewing the first national datasets produced through the two national patient experience surveys undertaken in 2009-10 to establish if there are reported differences in the experiences of those people living with long term conditions including cancer. The national reports published in 2010 have highlighted differential experiences across some patient groups but not specifically those people living with cancer. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245806,"EventID":"S3W-39293","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances at GP surgeries by prostate cancer patients there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary const","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many attendances at GP surgeries by prostate cancer patients there have been in each year since 1997-98, also broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally however Table 1 shows the estimated numbers of patients attending consultations at Scottish GP practices for prostate cancer related conditions during the financial years 2003-04 to 2008-09. Patients with prostate cancer will be diagnosed and receive treatment in healthcare settings other than GP practices, and may never consult their GP practice for prostate cancer. They may also consult their GP practice for non-prostate cancer related conditions. These estimates are based on data from a small sample of general practices in Scotland that participate in the Practice Team Information (PTI) scheme. The patients registered to PTI practices are representative of Scotland as a whole in terms of their age, gender and deprivation profile. However, precise estimates are difficult to generate for small age groups and/or for conditions where patients consult relatively rarely. Confidence intervals are shown to indicate the degree of precision of these estimates. Table 1 Estimated Numbers1, with 95% Confidence Intervals2, of Patients Attending Consultations with a GP or Practice-employed Nurse for Prostate Cancer, in Scotland. | Financial Year | Estimated Patients | 95% Confidence Intervals | Estimated Consultations | 95% Confidence Intervals | | 2003-04 | 7,471 | (6,245-8,696) | 27,422 | (21,304-33,540) | | 2004-05 | 8,667 | (7,111-10,223) | 28,079 | (21,556-34,602) | | 2005-06 | 7,067 | (5,839-8,294) | 22,188 | (17,640-26,736) | | 2006-07 | 7,833 | (6,184-9,482) | 23,515 | (17,378-29,652) | | 2007-08 | 8,146 | (6,749-9,543) | 22,633 | (17,863-27,402) | | 2008-09 | 8,371 | (7,227-9,516) | 23,517 | Figures confirming the number of emergency admissions with a main diagnosis of prostate cancer by parliamentary constituency are also available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52501). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245808,"EventID":"S3W-39295","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it takes to (a) monitor and (b) improve the experience of the treatment and care of cancer patients.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it takes to (a) monitor and (b) improve the experience of the treatment and care of cancer patients.","AnswerText":" a. The measurement of patient experience is a recent development and while there is no national monitoring of the experience of cancer patients in Scotland, the first ever national GP and inpatient patient experience surveys, published in 2010, does however include the experiences of cancer patients within these two care settings. Topic reports providing differential accounts of experience by equality strand and for people living with a long-term condition, including cancer, will be published in May 2011. b. In order to improve the care experience of cancer patients, the Scottish Government has funded three experience-based design cancer pilots. The pilots, in NHS Lothian, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and NHS Grampian will run for three years, concluding in 2012. Each pilot comprises a number of experience based improvement projects within specific cancer services, prioritised to reflect local, regional and national priorities. As well as resulting in service-specific improvements that will improve the care experience of cancer patients, the pilots are generating transferable learning outcomes in terms of engagement methods and experience-based improvements approaches, and identifying generalisable improvements. These are being shared with other cancer services through reporting to local NHS boards and regional cancer networks, and nationally through the Living with Cancer programme and Scottish Cancer Taskforce. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245809,"EventID":"S3W-39296","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to increase awareness of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, including the risks and benefits, and whether it will provide information regardin","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to increase awareness of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, including the risks and benefits, and whether it will provide information regarding these to (a) GPs and (b) the public.","AnswerText":"In 2010 the Scottish Government circulated the prostate cancer risk management programme pack to all general practitioners across NHS Scotland. Full details of this programme can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/cancer/publications. The PSA testing information leaflet, which is included in the prostate cancer risk management programme pack, is available to members of the public from their GP and can also be accessed via the Scottish Government website. Men who are concerned about prostate cancer can ask their GP for a PSA test. If they do so, they should be provided with full information explaining the risks and benefits, allowing them to make an informed choice about proceeding with the test. The prostate cancer risk management programme pack provides all the relevant information in one concise resource. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245810,"EventID":"S3W-39297","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that men are made aware of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and are given sufficient information to make a choice regarding taki","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that men are made aware of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and are given sufficient information to make a choice regarding taking it.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39296 on 24 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Scottish Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245811,"EventID":"S3W-39298","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of (a) men and (b) GPs was aware of the availability of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test in each year since 1997, also broken down by (i) NHS boar","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what proportion of (a) men and (b) GPs was aware of the availability of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test in each year since 1997, also broken down by (i) NHS board and (ii) parliamentary constituency.","AnswerText":"This information is collect or held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245812,"EventID":"S3W-39299","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to establish a test for prostate cancer that would be suitable as a universal screening tool.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to establish a test for prostate cancer that would be suitable as a universal screening tool.","AnswerText":"The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) sets out the criteria to assess screening programmes; the introduction of proposed new population screening programmes; the modification and withdrawal of existing programmes; and the quality and management of such programmes. At present the UK NSC recommends that a national programme for prostate cancer, with the currently available testing techniques, would not be of proven benefit and could cause harm. This policy was last reviewed in December 2010 and no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013-14 and the UK NSC will continue to actively review the research findings as they become available on screening for prostate cancer. The Chief Scientist Office (CSO) within the Scottish Government Health Directorates has responsibility for encouraging and supporting research into health and health care needs in Scotland. CSO is currently funding one research project into prostate cancer, at a cost of £364,000. This project is based at the University of Aberdeen, titled Deregulation of androgen receptor signalling in prostate cancer and will contribute to the development of UK NSC policy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245813,"EventID":"S3W-39300","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to develop the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme to include pupils in other years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to develop the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme to include pupils in other years.","AnswerText":"Our funding for the Scottish Book Trust is currently focused on the Early Years Bookgifting Programme which provides books for all our young children. We have no plans to extend this universal approach to pupils in other school years. We are aware, however that the Early Years Bookgifting Programme is linked into the Trust''s wider children''s programme, so that a real continuity of impact and benefit to children can be achieved. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245814,"EventID":"S3W-39301","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it is allocating to the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it is allocating to the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government places great value on what is achieved for children through the Scottish Book Trust''s Early Years Bookgifting programme and we will be providing aggregate funding of £1.05 million for 2011-12. This was announced by way of a News Release on 10 February 2011 at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2011/02/10112505 ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245815,"EventID":"S3W-39302","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has conducted an impact evaluation of the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme and, if so, when this will be made available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has conducted an impact evaluation of the Scottish Book Trust’s book gifting scheme and, if so, when this will be made available.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Book Trust plans a large scale evaluation of the Bookbug programme in March to April 2011. We look forward to discussing the outcome of this evaluation with them. The Scottish Book Trust must, of course, comply with the grant conditions which are applied by the Scottish Government to our funding and these are monitored. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245816,"EventID":"S3W-39303","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has conducted research into the levels of extracurricular reading among school-age children and, if so, when this will be made available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has conducted research into the levels of extracurricular reading among school-age children and, if so, when this will be made available.","AnswerText":"Scotland''s results from the Programme for International Student Assessment 2009, which surveys 15 year olds, showed that approximately 57% of respondents read for enjoyment. Highlights from Scotland''s results are published at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/12/07095656/0. The 2009 Scottish Survey of Achievement (SSA) results provide information on how often a sample of young people in P3, P5, P7 and S2 read outside of school, based on a pupil questionnaire. The 2009 SSA results can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/02/22135127/0. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245817,"EventID":"S3W-39304","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the document, A Policy for Sika Deer in Scotland, published by the Forestry Commission and Scottish Natural Heritage in 1997 reflects Scottish Government policy.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the document, A Policy for Sika Deer in Scotland, published by the Forestry Commission and Scottish Natural Heritage in 1997 reflects Scottish Government policy.","AnswerText":"The document A Policy for Sika Deer in Scotland was led by the then Deer Commission for Scotland and was developed and agreed by a Sika working group (staff from the Deer Commission for Scotland, the Forestry Commission and Scottish Natural Heritage). It was published by the Stationery Office in 1997. The 1997 policy document has now been superseded by the Scottish Government''s strategy for wild deer: Scotland''s Wild Deer: A National Approach. Development of the strategy was led by the then Deer Commission for Scotland and aided by a steering group (Deer Commission for Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Rural Directorate of the Scottish Government) and an advisory group (representatives from organisations with an interest in deer management). It was also informed by a public consultation, a strategic environmental assessment and a socio-economic assessment. It was published in 2008. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245818,"EventID":"S3W-39305","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38849 by Michael Russell on 17 January 2011, how much funding has been set aside for the Literacy Action Plan.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38849 by Michael Russell on 17 January 2011, how much funding has been set aside for the Literacy Action Plan.","AnswerText":"The delivery of the Literacy Action Plan will take place within existing policy frameworks, including the Early Years Framework, Curriculum for Excellence, and the Adult Literacies Strategic Guidance. Delivery will build on the resource and infrastructure already in place to support these frameworks. We are also working with Learning and Teaching Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority, and HM Inspectorate of Education, as well as partners in health, justice, social work and culture, to ensure their current and future work supports the action plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245819,"EventID":"S3W-39306","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1803,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":58,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for support have been made in the Clydesdale parliamentary constituency under the new entrants scheme for farming since the scheme was introduced.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for support have been made in the Clydesdale parliamentary constituency under the new entrants scheme for farming since the scheme was introduced.","AnswerText":"The Rural Priorities element of the Scotland Rural Development Programme includes a specific regional priority aimed at encouraging new entrants to farming to restructure/modernise business, and an option which provides interest rate relief to young farmers setting up a farming business for the first time. There have been five applications in the Clydesdale parliamentary constituency under the new entrants regional priority, of which one has been approved, one rejected and three are currently under consideration. There has been one business development proposal in Clydesdale which incorporates the Setting Up Young Farmers - Interest Rate Relief option. This application is currently under consideration. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245820,"EventID":"S3W-39307","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1803,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":58,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for support in the Clydesdale parliamentary constituency under the new entrants scheme for farming have been successful since the scheme was introdu","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for support in the Clydesdale parliamentary constituency under the new entrants scheme for farming have been successful since the scheme was introduced.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39306 on 21 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245821,"EventID":"S3W-39308","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes were made to the methodology used to determine the natural heritage indicator for the area of Scotland unaffected by built development; for what reason, and ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes were made to the methodology used to determine the natural heritage indicator for the area of Scotland unaffected by built development; for what reason, and how comparable the 2009 results are with the results between 2002 and 2008 as a consequence of these changes.","AnswerText":"I understand that results from this Scottish Natural Heritage indicator for 2009 and 2008 are not directly comparable with those from 2002 because it was not possible in that analysis to take account of topography, i.e. Scotland was treated as a flat surface. Technological advances in 2008 enabled topography to be incorporated in the analysis and to produce a more realistic map. At the same time, the distances over which structures were assumed to exert visual influence were reviewed to give a more realistic measure of visual impact. However, changes in the method have had little effect on the overall extent of visual influence. Replicating the original, i.e. the 2002, method for 2008 gave a result of 30.97% of Scotland unaffected by built development whereas the improved method gave a closely similar result of 31.17% (0.2% difference). A minor revision between 2008 and 2009 was that it became possible to incorporate individual turbine location data in place of a single central point location for wind farms. This has a negligible effect on the indicator results. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245822,"EventID":"S3W-39309","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to secure the future of jobs at the Skykon wind tower factory at Macrihanish.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to secure the future of jobs at the Skykon wind tower factory at Macrihanish.","AnswerText":"Scottish Development International and Highlands and Islands Enterprise are continuing to work closely with Skykon''s administrators, Ernst and Young to help find a buyer for the Machrihanish Skykon site and ensure its long term future. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245823,"EventID":"S3W-39310","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that the amount budgeted for distinction awards in the 2010-11 draft budget is £30 million in cash and £29.6 million in real terms and that this r","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that the amount budgeted for distinction awards in the 2010-11 draft budget is £30 million in cash and £29.6 million in real terms and that this represents a 7.1% and 5.6% increase respectively on the amount budgeted in 2009-10.","AnswerText":"I confirm that the draft budget for distinction awards for 2010-11 was £30 million. However, in March 2010, I accepted the recommendation of the Doctors'' and Dentists'' Review Body that there should be no uplift in the value of the existing awards in 2010-11 and also announced that there would be no new awards for that year. This meant that only recyclable awards i.e. those becoming available through retirals, resignations, deaths and award holders leaving NHS Scotland for any other reason could be re-distributed. The budget for 2010-11 did not therefore increase, remaining at the 2009-10 level of £28 million and the number of awards was frozen at the 2009-10 level. The Scottish Advisory Committee on Distinction Awards has recently provided the funding reconciliation for 2010-11 which shows an actual spend of just over £27 million for 2010-11, indicating a £1 million saving in 2010-11. This additional saving is caused by award holders leaving the scheme due to retiral etc throughout the year and therefore not receiving a full year''s payment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245824,"EventID":"S3W-39311","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, given the increase in the workforce line for health and sport in the draft budget for 2011-12 to £28.5 million in cash terms, what regulatory bodies will receive lower p","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, given the increase in the workforce line for health and sport in the draft budget for 2011-12 to £28.5 million in cash terms, what regulatory bodies will receive lower payments.","AnswerText":"There are no plans at the moment to reduce the amount paid to regulatory bodies as a result of the increase in the workforce budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245825,"EventID":"S3W-39312","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many student nurses have enrolled in each of the last five academic years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many student nurses have enrolled in each of the last five academic years.","AnswerText":"Published trend information showing nursing and midwifery student intake is available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Student_intakes_and_students_in_training%202010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245826,"EventID":"S3W-39313","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has reduced, in the draft budget for 2011-12, the increase planned for eHealth for 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has reduced, in the draft budget for 2011-12, the increase planned for eHealth for 2010-11.","AnswerText":"Allocations for 2011-12 for General Medical Services are still to be decided and are subject to UK pay negotiations with the professional groups concerned. We do not disclose figures in advance as it could prejudice these contract negotiations. In 2011-12 we will increase funding for General Dental Services by £40 million to £396.6 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245827,"EventID":"S3W-39314","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has reduced, in the draft budget for 2011-12, the increase planned for eHealth for 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has reduced, in the draft budget for 2011-12, the increase planned for eHealth for 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The 2010-11 budget includes one-off planned expenditure which reflected a phased profile of expenditure over the three year period covered by the 2007 Spending Review. In the 2011-12 Draft Budget the one-off planned expenditure has been removed from the restated 2010-11 position. The 2011-12 settlement has been agreed by the eHealth Strategy Board. The investment budget is sufficient to meet the agreed strategic priorities over 2011-14. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245828,"EventID":"S3W-39315","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the national indicator connected with reducing coronary heart disease in under-75s in deprived areas contained in the HEAT targets for 2008-09 is absent f","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the national indicator connected with reducing coronary heart disease in under-75s in deprived areas contained in the HEAT targets for 2008-09 is absent from the current list.","AnswerText":"In 2008, the Scottish Government introduced the National Performance Framework. This new context paved the way for the review of HEAT targets, and allowed HEAT targets and local delivery plans to be better positioned to support the achievement of the Government''s purpose and national outcomes by optimizing the contribution of health-related activities. This development resulted in the refinement of a number of HEAT targets. For example, in 2008-09, HEAT contained a target to reduce mortality from coronary heart disease among the under 75s in deprived areas. This is in fact a long-term outcome achievable through the contributions and actions of a range of public services, private companies and individual behaviours. For 2009-10, the HEAT target was changed to a specific one that NHSScotland could be held to account for, that is to achieve an agreed number of inequalities targeted cardiovascular health checks during 2009-10. This HEAT target supports the range of actions carried out by other community planning partners in pursuit on the longer term outcome. In addition, NHS boards are active partners in community planning partnerships, and deliver a range of services to support delivery of single outcome agreements, over and above the HEAT targets. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245829,"EventID":"S3W-39316","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason only four HEAT targets in the 2011-12 draft budget correlate with the Scottish Government’s performance indicators.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason only four HEAT targets in the 2011-12 draft budget correlate with the Scottish Government’s performance indicators.","AnswerText":"The Local Delivery Plan Guidance 2011-12 sets out the HEAT targets (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112). HEAT targets are designed to support delivery of the National Performance Framework. The following table set out the national indicators that are supported by HEAT targets. | National Indicator | HEAT Target Demonstrating NHS Contribution to National Indicator | | Increase healthy life expectancy at birth in the most deprived areas | Majority of targets | | Reduce alcohol related hospital admissions by 2011 | Achieve agreed number of screenings using the setting-appropriate screening tool and appropriate alcohol brief intervention, in line with SIGN 74 guidelines during 2011-12. By March 2013, 90% of clients will wait no longer than 3 weeks from referral received to appropriate drug or alcohol treatment that supports their recovery. | | Reduce mortality from coronary heart disease among the under 75s in deprived areas | Achieve agreed number of inequalities targeted cardiovascular Health Checks during 2011-12. NHSScotland to deliver universal smoking cessation services to achieve at least 80,000 successful quits (at one month post quit) including 48,000 in the 40% most-deprived within-Board SIMD areas over the three years ending March 2014. | | Reduce the rate of increase in the proportion of children with their Body Mass Index outwith a healthy range by 2018 | Achieve agreed completion rates for child healthy weight intervention programme over the three years ending March 2014. | | Reduce the percentage of the adult population who smoke to 22% by 2010 | NHSScotland to deliver universal smoking cessation services to achieve at least 80,000 successful quits (at one month post quit) including 48,000 in the 40% most-deprived within-Board SIMD areas over the three years ending March 2014. | | 60% of school children in primary 1 will have no signs of dental disease by 2010 | At least 60% of 3 and 4 year olds in each SIMD quintile to have fluoride varnishing twice a year by March 2014. | | Improve public sector efficiency through the generation of 2% cash releasing efficiency savings per annum | NHS Boards to deliver a 3% efficiency saving to reinvest in frontline services. | | Reduce overall ecological footprint | NHSScotland to reduce energy-based carbon emissions and to continue a reduction in energy consumption to contribute to the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets set in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009. | | Achieve annual m","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245830,"EventID":"S3W-39317","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no target to tackle NHS staff sickness absence in the draft budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no target to tackle NHS staff sickness absence in the draft budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The draft budget includes a priority to support NHSScotland to achieve productivity and efficiency gains without compromising quality through the implementation of the new efficiency and productivity plan. The Local Delivery Plan Guidance 2011-12 sets out the agreed HEAT targets and standards for NHSScotland at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112. These HEAT targets and standards support the budgetary process. NHS boards'' local delivery plan for 2011-12 will include the HEAT national standard to achieve a sickness absence rate of 4% from 31 March 2009. The Scottish Government published its refreshed NHSScotland Efficiency and Productivity Framework in February 2011. This has set out the full range of actions that the Scottish Government will undertake to support NHS boards. Performance against the sickness absence standard is published by ISD at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5380.html#Sickness_absence and considered at NHS boards'' annual reviews. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245831,"EventID":"S3W-39318","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no emergency ambulance response rate target in the draft budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no emergency ambulance response rate target in the draft budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Ambulance Service achieved the 75% category A response time target in March 2009 at which time the target became a standard. Since then we have seen year on year improvement to the full-year performance returned by the Service. The Local Delivery Plan Guidance 2011-12 sets out the agreed HEAT targets and standards for NHSScotland at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112. These HEAT targets and standards support the budgetary process. The Scottish Ambulance Service''s Local Delivery Plan for 2011-12 will include the HEAT national standard to respond to 75% of Category A calls within 8 minutes from April 2009 onwards across mainland Scotland. The Scottish Ambulance Service regularly reports on performance against this standard at its board meetings and in its annual report. Performance is also considered at the Scottish Ambulance Service annual review. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245832,"EventID":"S3W-39319","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no accident and emergency waiting time target in the draft budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there is no accident and emergency waiting time target in the draft budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The target for 98% of patients to wait less than four hours from arrival to admission, discharge or transfer for accident and emergency treatment was effectively delivered in December 2007. The proportion of patients dealt with within four hours increasing from 84 per cent in April 2006 to 98 per cent in December 2007. The latest annual performance for 2009/10 was 97.4%. The Local Delivery Plan Guidance 2011-12 sets out the agreed HEAT targets and standards for NHSScotland at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112. These HEAT targets and standards support the budgetary process. NHS boards'' local delivery plan for 2011-12 will include the HEAT national standard that 98% of patients will wait less than 4 hours from arrival to admission, discharge or transfer for accident and emergency treatment. Performance against this standard is published by ISD at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4024.html and considered at the NHS boards'' annual reviews. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245833,"EventID":"S3W-39320","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has decided to create HEAT standards to replace HEAT targets.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it has decided to create HEAT standards to replace HEAT targets.","AnswerText":"HEAT targets are agreed with a wide range of stakeholders, and set out the areas where accelerated improvement is required. NHS Boards aim to deliver the HEAT targets through sustainable improvement. Following delivery of HEAT targets, the expectation is that NHS boards will continue to deliver the improved performance and the target becomes a standard. For 2011-12, the local delivery plan guidance (see http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112.) sets out eight national standards. Provide 48 hour access or advance booking to an appropriate member of the GP Practice Team. To respond to 75% of Category A calls within eight minutes from April 2009 onwards across mainland Scotland (Scottish Ambulance Service). 98% of patients will wait less than four hours from arrival to admission, discharge or transfer for accident and emergency treatment. No patient will wait longer than 12 weeks from referral (all sources) to a first outpatient appointment (measured on month end Census). No patient will wait longer than nine weeks for inpatient and day case treatment (measured on month end Census). No people will wait more than six weeks to be discharged from hospital into a more appropriate care setting. Maintain the number of people with a diagnosis of dementia on the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) dementia register and other equivalent sources. NHS boards to achieve a sickness absence rate of 4% from 31 March 2009. The Scottish Government will monitor these standards, and discuss performance at NHS boards'' annual reviews. The HEAT targets which have been delivered by NHS boards, over and above the eight national standards, are standards which are monitored locally by NHS boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245834,"EventID":"S3W-39321","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there are targets to measure performance against budget for only three of its key spending priorities for health and sport outlined in the draft budget fo","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason there are targets to measure performance against budget for only three of its key spending priorities for health and sport outlined in the draft budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Draft Budget 2011-12, sets out the health priorities for 2011-12. The Local Delivery Plan Guidance 2011-12 sets out the HEAT targets and standards for NHSScotland at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/NHS-Scotland/17273/LDPGuidancePDF201112. Where HEAT targets and standards can help support delivery of the priorities set out in the draft budget, then they are underpinned directly by HEAT targets and standards. For example there are HEAT targets on reducing waiting times; healthcare associated infections; and financial breakeven. The following table lists the Scottish Government''s priorities for 2011-12 and the HEAT targets and standards that support these priorities. | Priorities Set Out in Draft Budget 2011-12 | Supporting HEAT Targets and Standards | | Protect frontline healthcare services; | Supported by all HEAT targets and standards. | | Implement Scotland''s first National Dementia Strategy in full and take forward the work to improve post-diagnostic information and support and to improve the care in general hospital settings; | Directly supported by HEAT Standard: Maintain the number of people with a diagnosis of dementia on the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) dementia register and other equivalent sources. | | Support older people and those with long term conditions to remain independent in their own homes or in the community, by a focus across NHS boards and local authorities on supported self management, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and speeding discharge after a crisis; | Directly supported by HEAT target: Reducing the need for emergency hospital care, NHS boards will achieve agreed reductions in emergency inpatient bed days rates for people aged 75 and over between 2009-10 and 2011-12 through improved partnership working between the acute, primary and community care sectors. | | Support NHSScotland to eliminate waste and drive modernisation programmes; | Directly supported by HEAT target: NHS boards to deliver a 3% efficiency saving to reinvest in frontline services | | Support NHSScotland to achieve productivity and efficiency gains without compromising quality through the implementation of the new Efficiency and Productivity plan; | | Priorities Set Out in Draft Budget 2011-12 | Supporting HEAT Targets and Standards | | Implement the Healthcare Quality Strategy; | Directly supported by a range of H, A and T targets and standards including: Deliver 18 weeks referral to treatment from 31 December 2011. Further reduce healthcare associated infections so that by March 2013 NHS boards'' staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (including MRSA) cases are 0.26 or less per 1000 acute occupied bed days; and the rate of Clostridium difficile infections in patients aged 65 and over is 0.39 cases or less per 1000 total occupied bed days. | | Iden","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245835,"EventID":"S3W-39322","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that in its draft budget for 2011-12 the spending on health will be £190 million less than planned in the budget for 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that in its draft budget for 2011-12 the spending on health will be £190 million less than planned in the budget for 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The budget for Health will increase by £190.5 million compared to 2010-11. The 2010-11 position has been restated to reflect transfers in respect of the removal of the cost of capital (following revised HM Treasury guidance), transfer of funding in respect of Adult Support and Protection Act to local government and other corporate transfers. Figures in the 2010-11 Draft Budget and the 2011-12 Draft Budget are not directly comparable due to the reasons stated above and therefore a more valid comparison is to use the prior year figure included in the current budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245836,"EventID":"S3W-39323","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that, in comparing the draft budget for 2011-12 with that for 2010-11, £95 million less is budgeted for the NHS boards and Special Health Boards.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that, in comparing the draft budget for 2011-12 with that for 2010-11, £95 million less is budgeted for the NHS boards and Special Health Boards.","AnswerText":"Within the 2011-12 draft budget document, the revenue budget for NHS boards and Special Health Boards will increase by £223.5 million compared to 2010-11. The 2010-11 position has been restated to reflect transfers in respect of the removal of the cost of capital (following revised HM Treasury guidance), transfer of funding in respect of Adult Support and Protection Act to local government and other corporate transfers. Figures in the 2010-11 Draft Budget and the 2011-12 Draft Budget are not directly comparable due to the reasons stated above and therefore a more valid comparison is to use the prior year figure included in the current budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245837,"EventID":"S3W-39324","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the capital expenditure line in the draft budget for 2011-12 takes account of the repayment of the £50 million in capital expenditure brought forward to 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the capital expenditure line in the draft budget for 2011-12 takes account of the repayment of the £50 million in capital expenditure brought forward to 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The draft budget for the 2011-12 financial year reflects the first year of a new spending review period and, as such, the level of capital available is primarily dictated by the allocations made to the Scottish Government. For 2011-12 the capital budget of £2,606.6 million is made up of a capital allocation of £2,506.6 million plus £100 million of resources carried forward from 2010-11. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245838,"EventID":"S3W-39325","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that the capital investment in the draft budget for 2011-12 shows a cash-terms decrease of £105 million and a real-terms decrease of £113.5 millio","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that the capital investment in the draft budget for 2011-12 shows a cash-terms decrease of £105 million and a real-terms decrease of £113.5 million compared with the draft budget for 2010-11 and that this will covered by means of the accumulated underspend.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s draft budget for 2011-12 discloses a capital budget of £2,606.6 million. When compared to the 2010-11 capital budget of £3,292.9 million this represents a cash decrease of £686.3 million or £736 million in real terms. The 2011-12 capital budget is funded by a capital DEL allocation of £2,506.6 million supplemented by a carry forward of £100 million from 2010-11. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245839,"EventID":"S3W-39326","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that, when comparing the draft budgets for 2011-12 and 2010-11 for health and sport, spending plans for education and training are reduced at a pr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will confirm that, when comparing the draft budgets for 2011-12 and 2010-11 for health and sport, spending plans for education and training are reduced at a proportionally higher rate under the workforce line than the nursing line.","AnswerText":"Figures in the 2010-11 Draft Budget and the 2011-12 Draft Budget are not directly comparable. The 2010-11 position has been restated to reflect transfers in respect of the removal of the cost of capital (following revised HM Treasury guidance), transfer of funding in respect of Adult Support and Protection Act to local government and other corporate transfers, therefore a more valid comparison is to use the prior year figure included in the current budget. | 2011-12 Draft Budget | 2010-11 | 2011-12 | Increase | | | £ million | £ million | | | Workforce | 25.9 | 28.5 | +10.0% | | Nursing | 150.1 | 150.4 | +0.2% | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245840,"EventID":"S3W-39327","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, when comparing the education and training spending plans across the workforce and nursing lines in the draft budget for 2011-12 and 2010-11 for health and sport,","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, when comparing the education and training spending plans across the workforce and nursing lines in the draft budget for 2011-12 and 2010-11 for health and sport, the nursing line will see the larger decrease in cash terms.","AnswerText":"Figures in the 2010-11 Draft Budget and the 2011-12 Draft Budget are not directly comparable. The 2010-11 position has been restated to reflect transfers in respect of the removal of the cost of capital (following revised HM Treasury guidance), transfer of funding in respect of Adult Support and Protection Act to local government and other corporate transfers, therefore a more valid comparison is to use the prior year figure included in the current budget. | 2011-12 Draft Budget | 2010-11 | 2011-12 | Increase | | | £ million | £ million | | | Workforce | 25.9 | 28.5 | +10.0% | | Nursing | 150.1 | 150.4 | +0.2% | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245841,"EventID":"S3W-39328","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in the draft budget for 2011-12 for health and sport, the workforce budget line has decreased by 17.2% and the nursing budget line by 7% compared with the draft ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in the draft budget for 2011-12 for health and sport, the workforce budget line has decreased by 17.2% and the nursing budget line by 7% compared with the draft budget for 2010-11.","AnswerText":"Figures in the 2010-11 Draft Budget and the 2011-12 Draft Budget are not directly comparable. The 2010-11 position has been restated to reflect transfers in respect of the removal of the cost of capital (following revised HM Treasury guidance), transfer of funding in respect of Adult Support and Protection Act to local government and other corporate transfers, therefore a more valid comparison is to use the prior year figure included in the current budget. | 2011-12 Draft Budget | 2010-11 | 2011-12 | Increase | | | £ million | £ million | | | Workforce | 25.9 | 28.5 | +10.0% | | Nursing | 150.1 | 150.4 | +0.2% | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245842,"EventID":"S3W-39329","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the eHealth strategy commitments that it plans to defer under its draft budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will list the eHealth strategy commitments that it plans to defer under its draft budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"There are no plans to defer strategic commitments, these improvements will continue to be taken forward in partnership with NHS Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245843,"EventID":"S3W-39330","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has assessed the impact of the proposed reduction in the health screening budget for 2011-12 by almost £6 million to £8.4 million in real terms compared with 2","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has assessed the impact of the proposed reduction in the health screening budget for 2011-12 by almost £6 million to £8.4 million in real terms compared with 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The 2011-12 Draft Budget states that the proposed budget in 2011-12 for health screening is £8 million which compares to the prior year figure of £8.5 million (which is unchanged from the 2010-11 Draft Budget figure). This budget reflects the projected resource needed to allow the Government to fulfil its commitment to continue planned amendments to existing screening programmes and to begin roll out of abdominal aortic aneurysm screening. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245844,"EventID":"S3W-39331","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it transferred the budget line for cervical cancer screening to miscellaneous other services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it transferred the budget line for cervical cancer screening to miscellaneous other services.","AnswerText":"The budget was not considered large enough to warrant a separate line in the level 3 budget analysis (see table 8.03, page 118 in the 2011-12 Draft Budget). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245845,"EventID":"S3W-39332","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2678,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress is being made on each project mentioned in the Strategic Transport Projects Review including (a) actual or planned starting date, (b) actual or estimated co","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress is being made on each project mentioned in the Strategic Transport Projects Review including (a) actual or planned starting date, (b) actual or estimated completion date, (c) actual expenditure to date and (d) planned or estimated future expenditure.","AnswerText":"Our priority projects remain the Forth Replacement Crossing, Edinburgh to Glasgow Improvements Programme, Highland Mail Line and the Aberdeen to Inverness line. We expect to deliver these projects by 2017. We are also working with partners and stakeholders to take forward the other projects, including: The design and development of the A9, with design work for dualling currently being undertaken between Birnam and the Jubilee Bridge; Early design work on the A96 to identify solutions for upgrading the section between Inverness and Nairn to dual carriageway and a new Inveramsay Bridge; Developing a long term vision for the A82 to improve its overall standard and safety; Developing a public transport strategy for the Forth Replacement Crossing which will include funding for a Park and Ride Site and investigation of Rapid Transit on the Crossing approaches; Developing a number of Park and Ride sites, including at Dalcross, Dyce (A96), Forgan and outside Ayr (M77); The production of a plan for rail improvements in Glasgow and the west of Scotland through the West of Scotland Strategic Rail Enhancements Steering Group; and Working with Network Rail to explore options to enhance the Aberdeen to central belt lines and develop phase two of the electrification of the rail network As all these projects will require many stages to be undertaken, including detailed design and development work, a significant amount of work will have to be carried out before we are able to set out a programme and associated timescales for their delivery. The estimated costs for these projects will emerge as the detailed design and development work moves forward. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245846,"EventID":"S3W-39333","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2678,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-32043 by Stewart Stevenson on 11 March 2010, what the most up-to-date estimate is of the (a) final cost and (b) completion date of ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-32043 by Stewart Stevenson on 11 March 2010, what the most up-to-date estimate is of the (a) final cost and (b) completion date of the (i) Forth Replacement Crossing, (ii) M74 extension, (iii) M8 completion, (iv) M80 completion, (v) Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and (vi) Borders Railway project.","AnswerText":"The most up to date estimates are shown in the following table: | Project | (a) Estimated Final Cost | (b) Estimated Completion Date | | (i) Forth Replacement Crossing | £1.7 billion to £2.3billion | 2016-17 | | (ii) M74 Extension | £692 million | June 2011 | | (iii) M8/Network Improvements/ M74 Raith | £320 million | Operational by 2016-17 (detailed timetable subject to review) | | (iv) M80 Completion (Stepps to Haggs) | £320 million | Autumn 2011 | | (v) Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route | £295 million to £395 million. To be reviewed and updated once the legal challenges submitted to the Court of Session have been resolved. | To be reviewed once the legal challenges submitted to the Court of Session have been resolved. Assuming a successful outcome to the challenges, a thorough review of the remaining stages of the project will be undertaken to produce a definitive timetable to construction. | | (vi) Borders Railway (formerly known as the Waverley Railway Project) | £235 million to £295 million (at 2012 prices) | 2014 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245847,"EventID":"S3W-39334","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1754,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":5,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth and the First Minister have met Tim Tyson, the executive chairman and chief executive officer of Aptuit, ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth and the First Minister have met Tim Tyson, the executive chairman and chief executive officer of Aptuit, and, if so, whether it will provide a report of the meeting and any subsequent action arising.","AnswerText":"The First Minister and I met with Tim Tyson, Aptuit''s Executive Chairman and CEO and Gerry Hepburn, President of Clinical Operations, Scotland on 26 January 2011. A steering group has since been set up involving management, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International. Aptuit has briefed employees over particular concerns and has agreed to keep ministers up to date as the consultation process progresses. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245848,"EventID":"S3W-39335","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1754,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":5,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken with regard to the announcement by Aptuit of the closure of Scottish operations at Riccarton and Livingston.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it has taken with regard to the announcement by Aptuit of the closure of Scottish operations at Riccarton and Livingston.","AnswerText":"The First Minister and I met senior Aptuit representatives in January 2011 and through Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International are working with Aptuit''s senior staff in Scotland in the interest of employees affected by this announcement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245849,"EventID":"S3W-39336","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many psychologists have been employed in each discipline in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many psychologists have been employed in each discipline in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"Information for 2010 on the number of psychologists employed in NHSScotland is published on the NHS National Services Scotland, Information Services Division (ISD) website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5381.html. Previous years can be found at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5759.html. Table 6 in publications 2007-10 details all applied psychologists in NHSScotland by area of work. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245850,"EventID":"S3W-39337","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many vacancies in consultant psychologist posts there are in each NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many vacancies in consultant psychologist posts there are in each NHS board.","AnswerText":"Information on vacancies for consultant psychologists posts in each NHS board is available from the Information Services Division website under workforce information at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5899.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245851,"EventID":"S3W-39338","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3759,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-02T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prescription pre-payment certificates have been issued in each year since 2005, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prescription pre-payment certificates have been issued in each year since 2005, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"The information is set out in the following table. | Prescription Pre-Payment Certificate Sales to Patients by NHS Board | | | NHS Board | Type of Certificate | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | | Argyll and Clyde 1 | 4 Months | 13,171 | - | - | - | - | | | | 12 Months | 4,355 | - | - | - | - | | | | Monthly Total | 17,525 | - | - | - | - | | | Ayrshire and Arran | 4 Months | 12,868 | 13,305 | 12,641 | 26,683 | 30,629 | | | | 12 Months | 2,609 | 2,607 | 1,873 | 4,098 | 4,167 | | | | Monthly Total | 15,478 | 15,912 | 14,514 | 30,781 | 34,796 | | | Borders | 4 Months | 2,922 | People have been able to buy up to three four-month certificates in any one year, but data is not available showing how many individuals bought PPCs each year. Additionally, data is not held which shows which individuals bought a 12-month PPC one year and not the next, and therefore their related savings are not known. Figures showing total sales by NHS board are provided to the member in the answer to question S3W-39338 on 24 February 2011. Overall sales of PPCs have increased by more than 100,000 since 2007-08, up by around 160%. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. Savings per PPC Based on Costs at 31 March 2007 | | Four-Month PPC | 12-Month PPC | | 2008-09 | £18.85 | £50.70 | | 2009-10 | £22.85 | £60.70 | | 2010-11 | £25.85 | £70.70 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245853,"EventID":"S3W-39340","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3907,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":10,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to reduce waiting times for the Scottish Driving Assessment Service.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to reduce waiting times for the Scottish Driving Assessment Service.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-31998 on 10 March 2010. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245854,"EventID":"S3W-39341","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional measures were put in place to minimise the impact of the recent severe weather on ambulance crews’ response times.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional measures were put in place to minimise the impact of the recent severe weather on ambulance crews’ response times.","AnswerText":"Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) operations were, inevitably, severely impacted by the prolonged adverse weather. Ambulance crews across the country worked tirelessly to respond to incidents. Crews were supported by partners including the Army, Coastguard and volunteers across the country, for example ambulance staff were driven to patients by army drivers in military 4x4 vehicles and treated at home or transferred to appropriate care. This additional support was implemented due to the physical challenges in reaching patients, not due to lack of SAS resource, and this collaborative effort meant that patients continued to be supported. SAS actively ensured that 999 calls were clinically monitored and prioritised, utilising paramedic advisors and NHS 24 clinical team leaders within the emergency medical dispatch centres. While patient transport services were reduced in some areas, high priority groups such as renal and cancer patients continued to be transported where this was possible. SAS worked in close partnership with territorial NHS boards throughout the period of disruption. The service took delivery of 22 new 4x4 vehicles in December 2010 and January 2011 to further enhance their resilience, they also plan to introduce winter tyres across their fleet before next winter. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245855,"EventID":"S3W-39342","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions have been attributed to weather-related falls since 1 December 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions have been attributed to weather-related falls since 1 December 2010.","AnswerText":"The routine collection of data on hospital admissions for falls is collected by ISD through the Standard Morbidity Record (SMR01) and complete data for December 2010 should be available in June 2011 and data for January and February 2011 should be available July and August 2011 respectively. Although this data is not routinely published by ISD, it will be available on request. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245856,"EventID":"S3W-39344","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether information on the capital budget requirements for each community health partnership is held centrally.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether information on the capital budget requirements for each community health partnership is held centrally.","AnswerText":"Capital requirements for community health partnerships form part of the overall capital planning arrangements for NHS boards. This information is only held centrally where it makes up part of the NHS board''s local delivery plan submission. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245857,"EventID":"S3W-39345","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to expedite the discharge of older patients with complex needs from acute hospitals.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to expedite the discharge of older patients with complex needs from acute hospitals.","AnswerText":"This administration has worked closely with local NHS and local authority partnerships to tackle delayed discharges over the last four years, greatly reducing the number of patients delayed over the six week discharge planning period, and achieving a zero level at the April census in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Our Joint Improvement Team has been made available to work with partnerships with specific problems. There are some cases where it is not appropriate to discharge a patient within six weeks, such as where there are concerns about someone''s capacity. However, we are working towards reducing the length of these delays with local partnerships, the Mental Welfare Commission and Scottish courts, amongst others. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245858,"EventID":"S3W-39346","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been detained under the Mental Health Act (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 since April 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been detained under the Mental Health Act (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 since April 2010.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. The Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland is notified of detentions under the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 and may be able to provide further information. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245859,"EventID":"S3W-39347","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions were attributed to adverse weather conditions in December 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many hospital admissions were attributed to adverse weather conditions in December 2010.","AnswerText":"Information on the number of acute care hospital admissions is published quarterly by ISD on the Acute Hospital Care section of the ISD website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4150.html. The next publication is scheduled for 29 March 2011 and will include high level statistics up to the quarter ending 31 December 2010 based on ISD(S)1 aggregate data returns. Complete data at a more detailed level, e.g. diagnosis level, for December 2010 should be available in June 2011. Whilst details of diagnoses on the Standard Morbidity Record (SMR01) can be used to identify medical conditions likely to be related to cold weather, the data collection cannot attribute admissions due to adverse weather per se. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245860,"EventID":"S3W-39348","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the calls from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE), the UK Faculty of Public Health and the Royal Society for Public Health for a ban on in","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the calls from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE), the UK Faculty of Public Health and the Royal Society for Public Health for a ban on industrial trans fats, whether it will review its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"The current position is to support industry to take voluntary measures which has seen average consumption of trans fats drop to below 1% and to only support placing a limit on trans fats if the evidence supports that there would be a significant health benefit in doing so the Food Standards Agency Scotland has confirmed that there is no new evidence to support a change of position. We will continue to keep trans fats levels under close review, actively monitoring outputs of ongoing work and new research in Scotland, the UK and internationally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245861,"EventID":"S3W-39349","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to promote good bone health.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to promote good bone health.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to promoting good bone health and a range of actions are being taken forward. As part of our anticipatory care approach to long term conditions management, we recognise the benefits of taking steps to ensure strong bones throughout life and our wider work in supporting young people to make positive choices about their health and wellbeing by means of our programmes relating to smoking, alcohol, healthy eating and physical activity is supporting this approach. Since November 2008, an osteoporosis directed enhanced service has been offered to all Scottish GP practices to ensure eligible women who have had a fragility fracture are investigated for possible osteoporosis. Work has also been undertaken by the Scottish Government, NHS Quality Improvement Scotland, NHS boards and by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network to ensure that avoidable fractures, including fragility fractures, are minimised. We have also been working in partnership with the Care Commission to take forward work on falls and fracture prevention in older people, including those living in care homes. A falls and fracture self-assessment resource pack is expected to be launched in Spring/Summer 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245862,"EventID":"S3W-39350","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which of the recommendations in The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland it (a) supports and (b) does not ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which of the recommendations in The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland it (a) supports and (b) does not support and what the reason is for its position in each case.","AnswerText":"The report itself calls for more work to be carried out to develop some of the recommendations further. We are taking this work forward with stakeholders before taking up a detailed position on the report. We have, however, identified some key principles which the Scottish Government supports including; Improving sustainability of Scottish agriculture; Fairer allocation of both Pillar I and Pillar II budgets; Continuation of Pillar I Direct Payments; Reform of Direct Payments (historical basis no longer justified); Distribution of future payments (pure area-based system not suitable, need to consider alternatives such as Top-Up Fund); Measures to tackle land abandonment (limited coupled payments); Stronger links between payments and farming activity; Addressing global challenges (climate change, biodiversity and food security); Measures to support new entrants and other excluded sectors; and Simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy to reduce the administrative burden. I have undertaken to write to the Rural Affairs and Environment Committee explaining those principles in more detail. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245863,"EventID":"S3W-39351","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will publish a formal response to The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will publish a formal response to The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39350 on 28 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245864,"EventID":"S3W-39352","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, following publication of The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland, what the status is of the group that p","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, following publication of The Road Ahead for Scotland: Final Report of the Inquiry into Future Support for Agriculture in Scotland, what the status is of the group that prepared it; whether the Scottish Government retains the services of the group’s members, and, if so, on what basis.","AnswerText":"The terms and conditions of Mr Pack''s appointment as chairman of the inquiry included appropriate follow-up work subsequent to the inquiry''s report. The period of Mr Pack''s contract has been extended to enable him to continue carrying out follow-up work, including advising on the ongoing work between Scottish Government and stakeholders in developing the inquiry''s recommendations further and carrying out engagements aimed at explaining the inquiry''s findings. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245865,"EventID":"S3W-39353","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many NHS buildings have been reported to it as containing asbestos.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many NHS buildings have been reported to it as containing asbestos.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. The day-to-day management of NHSScotland assets is a matter devolved to NHS boards. The Scottish Government Health Directorates Policy for Property and Asset Management in NHSScotland requires all NHSScotland bodies to comply with all requirements laid down by statutes bearing upon the health, safety and welfare of staff, patients and the public in relation to and in respect of the management of the property and other assets which they own or occupy in the performance of their functions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245866,"EventID":"S3W-39354","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have reported on the cost implications of buildings containing asbestos.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards have reported on the cost implications of buildings containing asbestos.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39353 on 14 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245867,"EventID":"S3W-39355","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has requested each community health partnership to prepare a report of capital expenditure required in its area and rank the priorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has requested each community health partnership to prepare a report of capital expenditure required in its area and rank the priorities.","AnswerText":"The capital expenditure of community health partnerships is a matter for their parent NHS health boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245868,"EventID":"S3W-39356","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards provide nursery or crèche facilities for its employees wishing to return to work following maternity leave.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards provide nursery or crèche facilities for its employees wishing to return to work following maternity leave.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. \r\nCommi","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245869,"EventID":"S3W-39357","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation; when these discussions took place, and whether it plans to continue the provision of","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation; when these discussions took place, and whether it plans to continue the provision of the influenza A (H1N1) vaccination to young children.","AnswerText":"The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) meets regularly to discuss vaccine related issues. Officials from the Scottish Government and from Health Protection Scotland attend these meetings. All children aged six months to five years old were offered vaccination against influenza A (H1N1) during the H1N1 pandemic in 2009-10 on the basis of what was known about the virus at the time. However there is no longer a pandemic of influenza and for 2010-11 we have returned to the routine seasonal flu arrangements. The JCVI considered whether flu vaccination should be offered to healthy children aged either zero to four years and five to 15 years of age at their meeting on 30 December 2010. They considered that, although there was a high incidence of influenza-like illness in those age groups, a significant proportion was due to other viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus. In addition, only a very small proportion of those with severe disease at the time were children. Most healthy children who catch flu will recover within a week and will not experience any adverse effects. In conclusion, the JCVI recommended that only adults and children (aged from six months) who have clinical risk factors which place them at particular risk from seasonal flu, should have vaccination against flu this year. The Scottish Government, and all the UK administrations, followed this recommendation and has not offered seasonal flu vaccination to healthy children this year. This is in line with practice in previous years where healthy children have not been recommended for seasonal flu vaccination. The JCVI continue to keep recommendations under review and we will consider carefully any recommendations they make. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245870,"EventID":"S3W-39358","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its plans are for prioritising rheumatology and musculoskeletal services in the NHS.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its plans are for prioritising rheumatology and musculoskeletal services in the NHS.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is currently developing a national musculoskeletal programme which aims to bring about significant service redesign to improve the delivery and outcome of musculoskeletal services across Scotland. The redesign focuses on improving access to services, including rheumatology services, by establishing a centralised self referral triage system utilising the technology within NHS 24, which is the national telephone and web based advice service for NHS Scotland. Our intention is to enhance supported self management and timeous access to expert advice and interventions when required. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245871,"EventID":"S3W-39359","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received IVF treatment in each of the last three years and what progress has been made in reducing waiting times for treatment.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have received IVF treatment in each of the last three years and what progress has been made in reducing waiting times for treatment.","AnswerText":"Due to concerns about breaching strict confidentiality rules set by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), this information is not currently collected or held centrally by Information Services Division. The activity and success rates of each of the units in Scotland is reported directly to the HFEA and the latest published data for 2008 is available at: http://www.hfea.gov.uk/104.html. The National Infertility Group was established in April 2010 to help ensure equity and consistency of NHS infertility services, including waiting times, across Scotland. The group will, as part of its work, make recommendations to ministers on waiting times for IVF treatment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245872,"EventID":"S3W-39360","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS board has made the most progress in reducing the number of patients who did not attend for hospital appointments.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS board has made the most progress in reducing the number of patients who did not attend for hospital appointments.","AnswerText":"Around half of NHS boards have made improvements in reducing the rate of did not attends in the last few years, in particular NHS Forth Valley and Lanarkshire. In the current economic climate it is more vital that NHS boards reduce waste in their budgets. It is every patient''s responsibility to keep their appointment, but we recognise that the NHS has to be flexible in helping make appointments convenient for patients. That is why the Scottish Government has given the NHS in Scotland a three per cent target for efficiency savings and all NHS boards are working on implementing policies to reduce missed appointments. This includes text and phone reminders, more choice over the time of an appointment and a poster campaign reminding patients of their responsibility in using NHS services. The Health Delivery Directorate Improvement and Support Team will continue to work with boards and ensure that good practice is identified and shared across Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245873,"EventID":"S3W-39361","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual staff turnover through natural wastage has been in each NHS board in each of the last four years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual staff turnover through natural wastage has been in each NHS board in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"Information on annual staff turnover in NHSScotland by staff group is published on the NHS National Services Scotland, Information Services Division website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=Turnover_2010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245874,"EventID":"S3W-39362","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its assessment is of how the recent increase in VAT will impact on the NHS budget in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its assessment is of how the recent increase in VAT will impact on the NHS budget in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The increase in VAT is estimated to cost the NHS budget £26 million in 2011-12. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245875,"EventID":"S3W-39363","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the NHS strategy is for the recruitment of accident and emergency consultants.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the NHS strategy is for the recruitment of accident and emergency consultants.","AnswerText":"NHS boards, as employers, are responsible for recruitment. Boards must adhere to the NHSScotland Staff Governance Standard and the Partnership Information Network (PIN) Policies. The PIN policies provide up-to-date guidance on a range of issues, including recruitment, and have been prepared on a partnership basis between NHSScotland management, trade unions, professional organisations and the Scottish Government. It is the responsibility of boards to determine the service requirements to meet the healthcare needs of their population and plan the workforce to deliver the service. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245876,"EventID":"S3W-39364","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many schools have had renewable energy devices installed, broken down by (a) type of device and (b) local authority area, in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many schools have had renewable energy devices installed, broken down by (a) type of device and (b) local authority area, in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245877,"EventID":"S3W-39365","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the implications have been of the increase in Minor Ailments Service prescriptions in the last four years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the implications have been of the increase in Minor Ailments Service prescriptions in the last four years.","AnswerText":"The number of patients registered for the Minor Ailment Service (MAS) is steadily growing and registrations have risen from 556,840 to 722,209 people over four years. It is used mainly by patients aged under 16 and over 60. The Gross Ingredient Cost of items dispensed under the MAS in 2009-10 was £2.87 million with an average cost per item of £2.03. Patients appreciate the MAS which plays an important part in improving access to NHS healthcare advice and treatment and it helps free up GP time to see patients with more serious complaints. Further statistics on the MAS are available on the NHS National Services Scotland website at http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5033.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245878,"EventID":"S3W-39366","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what treatment and support services are available to people with (a) progressive supranuclear palsy, (b) corticobasal degeneration; and (c) multiple system atrophy, broke","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what treatment and support services are available to people with (a) progressive supranuclear palsy, (b) corticobasal degeneration; and (c) multiple system atrophy, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"Services for rare diseases such as progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are provided by the clinical neuroscience units in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen. These services, which cover the whole of Scotland, are consultant-led, with nurse practitioner support and access to appropriate support such as physiotherapy. In addition, there are long-standing commissioning arrangements to ensure people with MSA, CBD and PSP are able to benefit from highly specialised services across the UK, or further afield, when clinically indicated. Voluntary organisations such as the Multiple System Atrophy Trust and the PSP Association also provide valuable support to people living with these conditions. The Neurological Alliance of Scotland, which receives some of its funding from the Scottish Government, acts as an umbrella organisation for all third sector bodies dealing with neurological conditions. We have also given a commitment to work with Rare Diseases UK on taking forward in Scotland the strategy Improving lives, Optimising Resources: A Vision for the UK Rare Disease Strategy, which it launched at the Parliament on 22 February 2011. In addition, the Scottish Government strongly supports the implementation of NHS Quality Improvement Scotland''s clinical standards for neurological health services. These will drive local improvement of services for all those with a neurological condition, wherever in Scotland they live. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245879,"EventID":"S3W-39367","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what backlog of X-rays waiting to be carried out by hospitals has been reported to it.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what backlog of X-rays waiting to be carried out by hospitals has been reported to it.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not collected centrally. Current information on waits for diagnostic tests relate to the eight key diagnostic tests such as MRI and CT scans, but not for X-rays. Waits for X-rays will of course be included in the 18 weeks referral to treatment time target due for delivery at the end of this year. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245880,"EventID":"S3W-39368","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what capital investment projects there have been in the NHS, including the level of investment, since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what capital investment projects there have been in the NHS, including the level of investment, since 2007.","AnswerText":"Over the three years of the current spending review period capital investment in NHSScotland has totalled £1.676 billion, an increase of 19.9% on the previous three years. NHS boards operate within delegated limits for the delivery of capital projects. For the majority of NHS boards, the delegated limit is £5 million with projects below that value being approved locally at NHS board level. Accordingly, only details of capital projects with a value in excess of £5 million are held centrally. Capital projects completed or currently in construction since 2007 with a value in excess of £5m are detailed in the following table: | NHS Board | Project | Final Cost £ million | Completion Year | | Ayrshire and Arran | Girvan Community Hospital | 20.00 | 2010 | | Dumfries and Galloway | Acute Mental Health Services | 27.2 | 2012 | | Fife | St Andrews Community Hospital and Health Centre | 27.00 | 2009 | | | Cupar Community Health Services | 9.8 | 2012 | | | General Hospital and Maternity Services (Non PFI Elements) “ Victoria Hospital | 21.3 | 2014 | | | General Hospital and Maternity Services “ Victoria Hospital | 170.0 | 2011 | | Forth Valley | Clackmannanshire Community Hospital | 20.49 | 2009 | | | Forth Valley Royal Hospital | 300.00 | 2010 | | Grampian | Aberdeen Dental School | 20.00 | 2009 | | | Forresterhill Energy Centre | 12.5 | 2011 | | | Dealing With Employee Concerns Partnership Information Network policy which can be found at: www.staffgovernance.scot.nhs.uk/partnership/partnership-information-network. Data on outstanding grievances is not collected centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245882,"EventID":"S3W-39370","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its directorate general for health owns (a) land and (b) property that is deemed surplus to requirements and, if so, where the location of this is and whether the","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its directorate general for health owns (a) land and (b) property that is deemed surplus to requirements and, if so, where the location of this is and whether there are plans for its disposal","AnswerText":"Although held in the name of Scottish Ministers, the day-to-day management of NHS property, including disposal of surplus land and buildings, is not a matter for the Scottish Government Health Directorates as such issues are devolved to individual NHS boards to undertake following well established guidance and mandatory procedures as directed by the NHSScotland Property Transactions Handbook. Although specific to NHSScotland bodies, the guidance and mandatory procedures contained within the handbook reflect those contained within the Scottish Public Finance Manual. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon ","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245883,"EventID":"S3W-39371","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many posts are currently filled on a temporary basis in each NHS board and how many have been so for more than (a) two, (b) five and (c) eight years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many posts are currently filled on a temporary basis in each NHS board and how many have been so for more than (a) two, (b) five and (c) eight years.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not centrally available. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245884,"EventID":"S3W-39372","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual running cost is of the communications office in (a) its directorate general for health and (b) each NHS board and how many employees there are in each.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the annual running cost is of the communications office in (a) its directorate general for health and (b) each NHS board and how many employees there are in each.","AnswerText":"The running cost for the communications office located in the Health and Social Care Directorates is £146,463. Information on the running costs and the number of employees in each communications office in NHS boards is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245885,"EventID":"S3W-39373","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the NHS has a role in reducing inequality and poverty in areas of multiple deprivation","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the NHS has a role in reducing inequality and poverty in areas of multiple deprivation","AnswerText":"NHS boards have an important role to play in reducing inequality and poverty in areas of multiple deprivation. Health and Wellbeing ministers have made it clear that boards and community health partnerships should contribute to the Scottish Government''s overall purpose and to a range of national and local outcomes, including those aimed at reducing inequality and poverty. As part of the local delivery plans and NHS accountability process, boards are now required to demonstrate activity that supports the agreed priorities set out in the three linked social policy frameworks on early years, health inequality and tackling poverty, as well as economic recovery from recession. Where appropriate, this will include activity targeted in areas of multiple deprivation, such as the Keep Well programme of inequalities-targeted health checks. To date, more than 90,000 people from Scotland''s most deprived communities have received a Keep Well health check. The health checks cover both clinical risk factors and wider life circumstances, with patients receiving appropriate follow-up treatment and advice. We have announced plans to mainstream the Keep Well programme from April 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245886,"EventID":"S3W-39374","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many written complaints each NHS board has received in each of the last three years, broken down by category of complaint, and what percentage of these has resulted i","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many written complaints each NHS board has received in each of the last three years, broken down by category of complaint, and what percentage of these has resulted in corrective action.","AnswerText":"Data collected on complaints about the NHS in Scotland is published annually by the Information Services Division and is available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4424.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245887,"EventID":"S3W-39375","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2059,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":18,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) cost and (b) start date of work on phase 2 of the Scottish Crime Campus at Gartcosh will be.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) cost and (b) start date of work on phase 2 of the Scottish Crime Campus at Gartcosh will be.","AnswerText":" The contract price for phase two of the construction of the Scottish Crime Campus is £11,744,547.73 excluding VAT. Work is scheduled to start on the site on 21 February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245888,"EventID":"S3W-39376","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1961,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":33,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many secure tenancies it estimates fall under the (a) modernised and (b) preserved right-to-buy scheme and what changes it estimates have occurred in these numbers si","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many secure tenancies it estimates fall under the (a) modernised and (b) preserved right-to-buy scheme and what changes it estimates have occurred in these numbers since the coming into force of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.","AnswerText":"The latest official figures show that there are around 285,300 dwellings owned and managed by local authorities that are considered to be normal letting stock. It is expected that all the households currently occupying these dwellings have either preserved rights, modernised rights or are serving the five year qualifying period leading to modernised right to buy eligibility. The breakdown of data for these categories is currently not held centrally. The Scottish Government is however working with local authorities to explore the possibility of collecting this breakdown and improving the information in this area. In addition to local authority tenants, registered social landlords (RSLs) have reported to the Scottish Housing Regulator that, as at 31 March 2010, 150,600 of their 265,400 tenancies qualify for either preserved or modernised right to buy. This figure can be broken down to show that 68,800 have preserved rights and 81,800 have modernised rights. The remainder are either exempt or are serving the qualifying period leading to modernised right to buy eligibility. The proportion of council or RSL tenants that have secure tenancies is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245889,"EventID":"S3W-39377","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has an agreement with child and adolescent mental health services on the target number of inpatient beds for children and adolescents.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has an agreement with child and adolescent mental health services on the target number of inpatient beds for children and adolescents.","AnswerText":"We are working closely with NHS boards to ensure that the number of specialist beds matches the need and demand of children and adolescents. We are also encouraging NHS boards to develop their community based intensive outreach services in order to enable children and young people to return to their own communities at an earlier stage of their recovery. Since 2009 the Scottish Government have invested an additional £2 million annually to support these developments which shorten the time young people have to be in hospital and free up capacity for others who require admission. We are operating a regional model of service delivery and presently have 51 beds with plans in place to increase the size of the Dundee Unit (which serves the North of Scotland Boards) from six beds to 12 and this will take the total bed numbers in Scotland to 57. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245890,"EventID":"S3W-39378","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Royal College of Psychiatry or child and adolescent mental health services staff have made a recommendation on the appropriate number of inpatient beds for ch","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Royal College of Psychiatry or child and adolescent mental health services staff have made a recommendation on the appropriate number of inpatient beds for child and adolescent patients.","AnswerText":"We have been working closely with NHS boards to determine the number of beds that would best meet the needs and demand of the children and adolescent population in Scotland. We have also been working on encouraging the development of new models of service delivery which either shorten admissions or act as alternatives to admissions. The 2005 report Building and Sustaining Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, recommended 20 to 40 inpatient beds per 1 million population across each of the five jurisdictions (England, Scotland, Wales Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic). The Scottish Executive inpatient working group recommended in its document Psychiatric Inpatient Services for Children and Young People in Scotland: A way Forward, that planning should commence now for a phased increase to 60 psychiatric inpatient places for young people in Scotland with ongoing review of need and demand. We are operating a regional model of service delivery and presently have 51 beds with plans in place to increase the size of the Dundee unit (which serves the North of Scotland Boards) from six beds to 12 and this will take the total bed numbers for children and young people in Scotland to 57. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245891,"EventID":"S3W-39379","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on the European average is, per 1 million of population, of beds for mental health admissions for children up to 16 years old.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on the European average is, per 1 million of population, of beds for mental health admissions for children up to 16 years old.","AnswerText":"This information is not available. The World Health Organization has a European Health for All Database with various indicators, however beds per 1 million of population for mental health admissions for children up to 16 years old are not one of the indicators. http://www.euro.who.int/en/what-we-do/data-and-evidence/databases/european-health-for-all-database-hfa-db2. Information on child/adolescent beds for Scotland is published on the ISD website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/3426.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245892,"EventID":"S3W-39380","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many children under 16 years old were admitted to adult psychiatric wards and how many of these admissions were deemed inappropriate, in each of the last three years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many children under 16 years old were admitted to adult psychiatric wards and how many of these admissions were deemed inappropriate, in each of the last three years.","AnswerText":"The number of children under 16 admitted to an adult psychiatric ward are: 2007-08: 28 2008-09: 34 2009-10: 35 The latest figures from the Mental Welfare Commission show that the number of young people under the age of 16 who were admitted to adult mental health beds is similar to that of the previous year. However the number of young males admitted has increased whilst the number of females has decreased. This may be due to young males requiring urgent admission for other mental health problems with young women more likely being admitted on an arranged basis, often for eating disorders. With regard to the number who were deemed to be admitted inappropriately this information is not available. Further information can be obtained at: http://reports.mwcscot.org.uk/annual_monitoring/overview2009-2010/monitoringourpriorityareas2010/young_people_under_18_2010.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245893,"EventID":"S3W-39381","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much (a) NHSScotland and (b) its agencies have paid for legal services in each of the last five years and what firms provided the services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much (a) NHSScotland and (b) its agencies have paid for legal services in each of the last five years and what firms provided the services.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not collect information on the level of spend by NHSScotland and its agencies on legal services. However, the answer to question S3W-39382 on 3 March 2011 includes details of legal fees paid by NHS boards in the last five years. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245894,"EventID":"S3W-39382","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each (a) NHS board and (b) community health partnership has spent on legal fees in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each (a) NHS board and (b) community health partnership has spent on legal fees in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not collect information on how much NHS boards or community health partnerships spend on legal fees. However, National Services Scotland''s Central Legal Office (CLO) provides NHSScotland with legal advice and assistance in every area of law relevant to the health service including employment, litigation, commercial contracts and commercial property, and endowments. The following table sets out the costs for the legal fees provided by CLO to NHS boards: | NHS Board | 2005-06 £''000 | 2006-07 £''000 | 2007-08 £''000 | 2008-09 £''000 | 2009-10 £''000 | | *Argyll and Clyde | 283.6 | 180.2 | n/a | n/a | n/a | | Ayrshire and Arran | 188.8 | 311.6 | 339.7 | 354.9 | 248.2 | | Borders | 57.3 | 112.8 | 83.3 | 97.8 | 85.8 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 158.8 | 143.7 | 150.5 | 199.0 | 177.6 | | Fife | 210.2 | 200.7 | 167.4 | 226.6 | 239.3 | | Forth Valley | 144.6 | 207.9 | 153.7 | 201.9 | 213.3 | | Grampian | 324.6 | 261.1 | 288.1 | 292.4 | 279.1 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245895,"EventID":"S3W-39383","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many complaints each (a) NHS board and (b) local authority has received in relation to the removal of or increase in charges for home-help services and how many peopl","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many complaints each (a) NHS board and (b) local authority has received in relation to the removal of or increase in charges for home-help services and how many people have had their services reinstated.","AnswerText":"Information on complaints made in relation to charges for home help services is not held centrally. Data collected on complaints about the NHS in Scotland is published annually by the Information Services Division and is available at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/4424.html. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245896,"EventID":"S3W-39384","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many senior managers there are in each NHS board and how many there have been in each of the last four years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many senior managers there are in each NHS board and how many there have been in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"NHS Workforce data is published by NHS National Services Scotland, Information Services Division (ISD). Trend workforce information showing headcount and whole time equivalent of management grades (non agenda for change) as at 30 September for the years 2007 to 2010 by NHS board can be found at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/servlet/FileBuffer?namedFile=All%20other%20staff%202010.xls&pContentDispositionType=attachment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245897,"EventID":"S3W-39385","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff from (a) its directorate general for health, (b) NHS agencies and (c) each NHS board have been on work-related trips abroad in the last three years and to ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many staff from (a) its directorate general for health, (b) NHS agencies and (c) each NHS board have been on work-related trips abroad in the last three years and to what countries.","AnswerText":"Sixty-seven members of staff from the Directorate-General for Health have been on work-related trips abroad between 2008 and 2010. They visited a number of countries in Europe as well as the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand and India. The information on NHS agencies and NHS boards is not centrally held. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245898,"EventID":"S3W-39386","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each NHS board spent on locum doctors in (a) 2006-07, (b) 2007-08, (c) 2008-09 and (d) 2009-10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each NHS board spent on locum doctors in (a) 2006-07, (b) 2007-08, (c) 2008-09 and (d) 2009-10.","AnswerText":"Information on expenditure on agency locum doctors is shown in the following table: | NHS Board | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Ayrshire and Arran | £5,733,592 | £6,017,043 | £2,048,004 | £3,583,996 | | Argyll and Bute | - | £497,896 | £380,018 | £0 | | Borders | £398,530 | £422,522 | £299,016 | £542,367 | | Dumfries and Galloway | £1,579,143 | £1,680,058 | £1,382,631 | £2,735,478 | | Fife | £1,621,714 | £1,581,676 | £2,235,818 | £2,708,564 | | Forth Valley | £1,979,891 | £1,484,407 | £1,390,000 | £1,499,487 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | £1,605,703 | £2,836,492 | £6,408,816 | £7,288,868 | | Grampian | £448,602 | £2,644,764 | £2,934,454 | £3,276,282 | | Highland | £1,941,441 | £2,442,900 | £3,018,694 | £3,408,344 | | Lanarkshire | £1,564,088 | £1,772,429 | £3,069,234 | £3,069,551 | | Lothian | £1,152,867 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245900,"EventID":"S3W-39388","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has cost the NHS to treat and care for patients who have experienced fractures due to bad weather in each of the last three years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it has cost the NHS to treat and care for patients who have experienced fractures due to bad weather in each of the last three years.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245901,"EventID":"S3W-39389","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether NHS boards have placed a ban on hiring agency staff and, if so, how this is affecting service delivery.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether NHS boards have placed a ban on hiring agency staff and, if so, how this is affecting service delivery.","AnswerText":"NHS Boards are not banned from hiring agency staff. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245902,"EventID":"S3W-39390","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual salary of a staff nurse is and what pay grades are applicable to nursing staff in the NHS.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the average annual salary of a staff nurse is and what pay grades are applicable to nursing staff in the NHS.","AnswerText":"Since the introduction of the Agenda for Change pay system, nursing staff have been categorised according to their Agenda for Change pay band and the term staff nurse is no longer used in NHS Scotland. Those formerly designated as staff nurses will be covered either by Band 5 or Band 6 of Agenda for Change. Scottish Government analysts advise that the average salary of a Band 5 nurse is currently £25,215 and the average salary of a Band 6 nurse is £31,619. Under Agenda for Change, there are job profiles available for nursing staff ranging from Band 2 Clinical Support Workers (£13,653 - £16,753) to Band 9 Nurse Consultant Higher Level (£77,079 - £97,478). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245903,"EventID":"S3W-39391","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in the Scottish Blood Transfusion Service have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in the Scottish Blood Transfusion Service have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for Chief Executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts. The Scottish Blood Transfusion Service is part of NHS National Services Scotland and its annual accounts can be found at http://www.nhsnss.org/uploads/publications/0809%20Annual%20Accounts%20Pack.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245904,"EventID":"S3W-39392","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in the Scottish Ambulance Service have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in the Scottish Ambulance Service have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for chief executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts which for the Scottish Ambulance Service can be found at: http://www.scottishambulance.com/UserFiles/file/Publications/Annual-accounts-2009-2010.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245905,"EventID":"S3W-39393","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS24 have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS24 have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for chief executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts which for NHS24 can be found at: http://www.nhs24.com/content/mediaassets/doc/Annual%20Accounts%202009%20-%2010.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245906,"EventID":"S3W-39394","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Health Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Health Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for chief executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts which for NHS Health Scotland can be found at: http://www.healthscotland.com/documents/4896.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245907,"EventID":"S3W-39395","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Education for Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in exce","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Education for Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for chief executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts which for NHS Education for Scotland can be found at: http://www.nes.scot.nhs.uk/media/911972/signed_annual_accounts%202009_10.pdf ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245908,"EventID":"S3W-39396","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Quality Improvement Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) i","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by staff in NHS Quality Improvement Scotland have an annual salary (a) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (b) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (c) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"The information on staff numbers collected by Scotland''s Information and Statistics Directorate does not allow the identification of salaries for specific positions. The Scottish government does publish remuneration information for chief executives which is available on the Scottish government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/public-bodies/about/Bodies. Also, NHS organisations are required to publish pay data for staff earning over £50,000 in their annual accounts which for NHS Quality Improvement Scotland can be found at: http://www.nhshealthquality.org/nhsqis/files/BM240610_AgendaItem17_Appendix1.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245909,"EventID":"S3W-39397","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by NHS (a) nursing and (b) midwifery staff have an annual salary (i) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (ii) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (iii) ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what positions held by NHS (a) nursing and (b) midwifery staff have an annual salary (i) of between £50,000 and £100,000, (ii) of between £100,000 and £150,000 and (iii) in excess of £150,000.","AnswerText":"Nursing and midwifery staff are paid under the Agenda for Change pay system which allocated pay bands according to which job profile their job description has been matched to. Pay band 8b equates to a pay scale from £45,254 to £55,945. Band 8c is £54,454 to £67,134, band 8d is £65,270 to £80,810 and band 9 is £77,079 to £97,478. The job profiles which match to these bands would typically be senior nursing or midwifery posts such as nurse or midwife consultant. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245910,"EventID":"S3W-39398","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what effects Scotland continues to experience as a result of the Chernobyl incident in 1986.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what effects Scotland continues to experience as a result of the Chernobyl incident in 1986.","AnswerText":"I am advised by the Food Standards Agency in Scotland that the last Scottish sheep farm affected by the 1986 Chernobyl accident was released from the monitoring requirements imposed under the Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 on 21 June 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245911,"EventID":"S3W-39399","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1805,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":1,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38080 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, whether there is a recommended set-back distance for the construction of wind turbines fr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38080 by Keith Brown on 15 December 2010, whether there is a recommended set-back distance for the construction of wind turbines from individual properties.","AnswerText":"There is no recommended fixed distance between turbines and individual properties. The topple distance of a free-standing turbine would be the absolute minimum between it and a neighbouring property. Scottish Government planning advice on wind turbine development, which can be accessed at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/212607/0113777.pdf, states that shadow flicker can generally be dealt with by a separation distance equivalent to 10 rotor diameters of the turbine. Mitigating noise will also have a bearing on what the appropriate separation distance should be. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245912,"EventID":"S3W-39400","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been employed in the fishing industry in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been employed in the fishing industry in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table: Number of Fishermen Employed1 on Scottish-Based Vessels, 2007 to 2009 | | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | | Regularly Employed | 4,408 | 4,585 | 4,403 | | Irregularly Employed | 951 | 807 | 946 | | Crofters | 65 | 56 | 60 | | Total | 5,424 | 5,448 | 5,409 | Note: 1. Figures are limited to those employed on vessels which submit landing declarations to Marine Scotland port offices. They exclude, for example, those employed in cockle picking. This information is published in table 13 in the Statistical Bulletin Scottish Sea Fisheries Statistics 2009, copies of which are available in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 51820). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245913,"EventID":"S3W-39401","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the fishing industry’s contribution to the Scottish economy has been in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the fishing industry’s contribution to the Scottish economy has been in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"First-sale value of landings by Scottish vessels from 2007 are as follows: 2007: £400 million 2008: £401 million 2009: £443 million Gross value added (GVA) of the Scottish fishing industry has been estimated as follows for 2007 and for 2008: 2007: £111 million 2008: £146 million In addition to the direct impact on Scottish GVA, sea fishing also has knock-on benefits to other parts of the economy through the associated supply chain and through induced household spending. These additional impacts are not the subject of official analysis. All figures provided are in 2009 prices and show the most up to date data available. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245914,"EventID":"S3W-39402","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many processing jobs have been directly associated with the fishing industry in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many processing jobs have been directly associated with the fishing industry in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"The following table shows the estimated level of employment in fish processing in Scotland for 2007 and for 2008, the most recent year for which data is currently available. This includes employment in the processing of fish from Scotland''s sea fisheries and landings by vessels from other countries, processing fish from aquaculture and from imported fish. Separate figures for fish processing related specifically to sea fisheries are not available. The figures provided are headcount i.e. there is no differentiation between full and part time workers. | Year | 2007 | 2008 | | Employment | 7,800 | 7,800 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245915,"EventID":"S3W-39403","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1805,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":1,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what mechanisms are in place to monitor the success of the actions set out in the Diabetes Action Plan 2010 to increase insulin pump provision.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what mechanisms are in place to monitor the success of the actions set out in the Diabetes Action Plan 2010 to increase insulin pump provision.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Diabetes Group (SDG) monitors NHS boards'' progress with the Diabetes Action Plan. Insulin pump provision is also a standing item on the agenda for meetings of the lead clinicians of the diabetes Managed Clinical Networks (MCNs). The 2010 Scottish Diabetes Survey, due to be published by April 2011, will provide the latest figures on insulin pump usage on a board by board basis. The SDG will use the survey results to review boards'' progress against their published plans for insulin pumps, and the local diabetes MCNs will be asked for a note of their plans to address any areas in need of improvement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245916,"EventID":"S3W-39404","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1805,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":1,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people with type 1 diabetes use a continuous glucose monitor.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people with type 1 diabetes use a continuous glucose monitor.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. In relation to the provision of continuous glucose monitoring, we expect diabetes services to be guided by the advice contained in SIGN Guideline 116 on the management of diabetes. The guideline is available at: http://www.sign.ac.uk/pdf/sign116.pdf. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245917,"EventID":"S3W-39405","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1805,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":1,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it invests each year in research into type 1 diabetes.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it invests each year in research into type 1 diabetes.","AnswerText":"The Chief Scientist Office (CSO) within the Scottish Government has responsibility for encouraging and supporting research into health and healthcare needs in Scotland. CSO responds primarily to requests for funding research proposals initiated by the research community in Scotland. CSO expenditure on diabetes research in 2009-10 was £827,129 of which £44,000 was spent on type 1 diabetes. CSO is currently funding 6 research projects on diabetes at a total cost of £1.1 million. CSO would be pleased to consider further proposals for research into type 1 diabetes which would be subject to the usual peer and committee review. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245918,"EventID":"S3W-39406","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason transcatheter aortic valve implantation is not routinely available to patients in Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason transcatheter aortic valve implantation is not routinely available to patients in Scotland.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s Quality Strategy commits us to ensure that healthcare services are not only person-centred, but also effective and safe. While there has been considerable interest in Scotland in the potential adoption of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), this is a new technology the introduction of which requires expert opinion. NHSScotland''s National Planning Forum (NPF) has therefore performed a comprehensive review of TAVI, looking at the technology''s efficacy and safety, its cost and service design requirements, and potential future demand. The NPF has concluded that there is insufficient evidence, at this point in time, to support a recommendation that a TAVI service should be established in Scotland, on the basis that long term outcomes are unknown, there is only limited evidence of clinical efficacy and no evidence of cost effectiveness. The position is endorsed by the review of the available clinical and cost effectiveness evidence carried out by the Scottish Health Technologies Group. I have therefore decided to accept this expert advice, but on the clear understanding that the position must be reviewed no later than in one year''s time, or sooner, should further evidence become available. I have asked that relevant clinicians are fully involved in the review of this evidence. NHS boards will continue to ensure that local arrangements are in place so that people with severe aortic stenosis get access to appropriate clinical treatment. As part of those arrangements, it will still be possible for potential TAVI patients and their doctors to apply, through individual patient treatment request panels, for a consideration of their clinical case. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245919,"EventID":"S3W-39407","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it gives to NHS boards on the treatment and care of patients who are suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it gives to NHS boards on the treatment and care of patients who are suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Health Technology Group (SHTG) provides information to NHS boards on the clinical and cost effectiveness of existing and new technologies to support planning and decision making. The most recent advice to NHS boards on transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) was issued by the Scottish Health Technology Group (SHTG) on 5 August 2010. The SHTG advice statement noted that transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is not recommended for use for the treatment of patients with aortic stenosis. The statement can be accessed at: http://www.nhshealthquality.org/nhsqis/files/TAVI_AdviceStatement_050810.pdf. The Making Difficult Decisions in NHS Boards in Scotland report, published in March 2010, gives NHS boards outline guidance on managing individual patient decisions in relation to both medicines and technology. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245920,"EventID":"S3W-39408","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether patients in Scotland suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation have been referred to centres in England to undergo the procedure.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether patients in Scotland suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation have been referred to centres in England to undergo the procedure.","AnswerText":"Yes. NHS boards in Scotland, through individual patient treatment requests panels, have referred patients with severe aortic stenosis to centres in England for transcatheter aortic valve implantation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245921,"EventID":"S3W-39409","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been referred to centres in England to undergo a transcatheter aortic valve implantation, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been referred to centres in England to undergo a transcatheter aortic valve implantation, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"This information is not available centrally in the format requested. The UK Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) Registry shows that, in 2009, 12 people were referred by NHS boards to a centre in England for transcatheter aortic valve implantation TAVI. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245922,"EventID":"S3W-39410","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of cable theft from the railway network have been reported in each of the last five years, broken down by region.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of cable theft from the railway network have been reported in each of the last five years, broken down by region.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Executive does not hold information in this format. It is an operational matter for the rail industry and the British Transport Police. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245923,"EventID":"S3W-39411","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many reported incidents of cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years have resulted in prosecution, broken down by region.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many reported incidents of cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years have resulted in prosecution, broken down by region.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39410 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245924,"EventID":"S3W-39412","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are being taken to prevent cable theft from the railway network and at what cost.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are being taken to prevent cable theft from the railway network and at what cost.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39410 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245925,"EventID":"S3W-39413","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many journeys have been (a) cancelled or (b) delayed due to cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years, broken down by region.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many journeys have been (a) cancelled or (b) delayed due to cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years, broken down by region.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39410 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245926,"EventID":"S3W-39414","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost to the economy is of cable theft from the railway network in the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated cost to the economy is of cable theft from the railway network in the last five years.","AnswerText":"As the Scottish Executive does not hold the information on the extent of the cancellations or delays, it is not possible to provide any estimated cost to the economy. Network Rail is funded to improve the ScotRail service Punctuality Performance Measurement to 92% by 2014, and cable theft is but one of a range of issues that it has to deal with to achieve this target. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245927,"EventID":"S3W-39415","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2651,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":41,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) repair and (b) replacement following incidents of cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years, broken down by regio","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been spent on (a) repair and (b) replacement following incidents of cable theft from the railway network in each of the last five years, broken down by region.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39410 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245928,"EventID":"S3W-39416","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2610,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-03T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38973 by Keith Brown on 3 February 2011, whether ScotRail has given a timetable for delivery of new Class 380 trains by Siemens.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38973 by Keith Brown on 3 February 2011, whether ScotRail has given a timetable for delivery of new Class 380 trains by Siemens.","AnswerText":"Yes, the Scottish Executive has received an indicative timetable for the delivery of the new class 380 trains. This is subject to ongoing discussion between ScotRail and the train manufacturer Siemens. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245929,"EventID":"S3W-39417","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of the 2010-11 budget for its Marketing Unit had been spent by 1 February 2011 and how much is budgeted to be spent in the coming months.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of the 2010-11 budget for its Marketing Unit had been spent by 1 February 2011 and how much is budgeted to be spent in the coming months.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39418 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. \r\n","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245930,"EventID":"S3W-39418","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an itemised breakdown of how its Marketing Unit budget has been spent in each of the last five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an itemised breakdown of how its Marketing Unit budget has been spent in each of the last five years.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-38966 on 3 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. An itemised breakdown of the Marketing Unit budget by topic is shown in the following table. List of Campaign details | Campaigns 2009-10 | Campaigns 2008-09 | | Active Nation Scottish Cup | Ageism | | Additional Support for Learners | Alcohol | | Ageism | Care Information Scotland | | Alcohol | Cashback | | Big Freeze | Children''s Hearings | | Breast Feeding | Climate Change Adaption | | Care Info Scotland | Climate Challenge Fund | | Cashback | Community Safety Policy | | Child Internet Safety | Curriculum for Excellence | | Children''s Hearings | Diffuse Water Pollution | | Climate Challenge Fund | Domestic Abuse | | Climate Change | Drugs | | Community Safety | Early Years Strategy | | Curriculum for Excellence | Fire (Domestic and Setting) | | Domestic Abuse | Firearms | | Drugs | Flu | | Early Years (Play, Talk and Read) | Greener | | Firearms | Hand Hygiene | | Fire Domestic/Setting | Healthy Living | | Greener | Hepatitis C | | Hand Hygiene | Homecoming Scottish Cup | | Hepatitis C | Home Report<","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245931,"EventID":"S3W-39419","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it spent on marketing between April 2010 and 1 February 2011 and how much it plans to spend before the dissolution of the Parliament in March 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much it spent on marketing between April 2010 and 1 February 2011 and how much it plans to spend before the dissolution of the Parliament in March 2011.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39418 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245932,"EventID":"S3W-39420","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an itemised breakdown of what it has spent on marketing in each of the last five years and of planned spending before the dissolution of the Parli","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide an itemised breakdown of what it has spent on marketing in each of the last five years and of planned spending before the dissolution of the Parliament in March 2011.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39418 on 22 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245933,"EventID":"S3W-39421","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3538,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":13,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will respond in full to the recommendations of the Fatal Accidents and Sudden Deaths Inquiry (Scotland) Act 1976 review led by Lord Cullen of Whitekirk.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will respond in full to the recommendations of the Fatal Accidents and Sudden Deaths Inquiry (Scotland) Act 1976 review led by Lord Cullen of Whitekirk.","AnswerText":"We expect to be able to respond to the review within the next few weeks. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245934,"EventID":"S3W-39422","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2866,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":63,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses in each parliamentary constituency have received (a) free and (b) partially subsidised insulation under the Home Insulation Scheme since it was introduced","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses in each parliamentary constituency have received (a) free and (b) partially subsidised insulation under the Home Insulation Scheme since it was introduced.","AnswerText":"Based on delivery as at 2 January 2011, within all Home Insulation Scheme (HIS) areas since the scheme was introduced: 11,539 households had at least one insulation measure that was free under HIS, broken down by constituency as follows: | Constituency | Households | | Angus | 1,419 | | Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross | 397 | | Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley | 20 | | Central Fife | 395 | | Clydebank and Milngavie | 1 | | Dundee East | 860 | | Dundee West | 370 | | East Lothian | 153 | | Eastwood | 14 | | Edinburgh Central | 95 | | Edinburgh East and Musselburgh | 260 | | Edinburgh North and Leith | 1 | | Edinburgh South | 17 | | Edinburgh West | 131 | | Falkirk East | 5 | | Falkirk West | 1 | | Glasgow Cathcart | 394 | | Glasgow Govan | 10 | | Glasgow Pollok | 231 | | Glasgow Rutherglen | 267 | | Gordon | 4 | | Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber | 790 | | M Midlothian | 8 | | Moray | Table 1: Employment Levels by Broad Industry Sector and gender for Dundee City Local Authority, 12 months to June 2008, 2009 and 2010 | | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | | Gender | All | Gender | All | Gender | All | | Male | Female | Male | Female | Male | Female | | A-B: Agriculture and fishing | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | | C,E: Energy and water | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | * | | D: Manufacturing | * | * | 7,600 | 6,500 | 2,100 | 8,600 | * | * | 6,400 | | F: Construction | * | * | 6,200 | * | * | 5,700 | * | * | 4,700 | | G-H: Distribution, hotels and restaurants | 7,300 | 7,000 | 14,400 | 9,400 | 7,300 | 16,700 | 8,200 | 9,000 | 17,100 | | I: Transport and communication | * | * | 3,400 | * | * | 3,900 | * The number of notified vacancies in each industrial sector in Dundee City local authority during January 2011 is shown in the following table. Table 1: Notified vacancies by broad industrial sectors for Dundee City local authority, January 2011. | Industry | Notified Vacancies | | 1 : Agriculture and fishing (SIC A,B) | 1 | | 2 : Energy and water (SIC C,E) | 33 | | 3 : Manufacturing (SIC D) | 1 | | 4 : Construction (SIC F) | 4 | | 5 : Distribution, hotels and restaurants (SIC G,H) | 141 | | 6 : Transport and communications (SIC I) | 8 | | 7 : Banking, finance and insurance, etc (SIC J,K) | 298 | | 8 : Public administration, education & health (SIC L,M,N) | 45 | | 9 : Other services (SIC O,P,Q) | 11 | | Total Vacancies | 542 | Source: Jobcentre Plus notified vacancies, DWP. Notes: 1.Data from Jobcentre plus administrative system, reporting 100% of vacancies notified to Jobcentre Plus. 2.These figures may not indicate developments in the labour market and may not be fully comparable over time. 3.The Jobcentre Plus vacancies series do not provide comprehensive measures relating to all vacancies in the economy. 4.Industry sector classification is given on SIC 2003 basis. 5.Vacancy counts include both full time and part time vacancies. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245937,"EventID":"S3W-39425","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many new jobs have been created in each industrial sector in Dundee in the latest year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many new jobs have been created in each industrial sector in Dundee in the latest year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. Using the Annual Population Survey, the change in the number of people employed within each broad industrial sector can be estimated. This is shown in the following table. Table 1: Net change in number of people employed over year, from July 2008 to June 2009 to July 2009 to June 2010, by broad industrial sector, Dundee City local authority. | Industry Sector | Net Change in Number of People Employed over Year | | Agriculture and fishing | * | | Energy and water | * | | Manufacturing | -2100 | | Construction | -1000 | | Distribution, hotels and restaurants | 500 | | Transport and communication | 0 | | Banking, finance and insurance etc | 1900 | | Public admin, education and health | 2700 | | Other services | -900 | | All sectors | 1000 | Source: Annual Population Survey, Office for National Statistics. Notes: *Estimate suppressed as below reliability threshold or disclosive. 1.Estimates based on those aged 16 and over. 2.Data may not sum due to rounding. 3.Industry sectors based on SIC 2003 industry classifications. 4.Estimates are workplace based. 5.Data rounded to nearest hundred. 6.As data is based on sample survey, the changes may not be statistically significant. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245938,"EventID":"S3W-39426","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The preferred source for earnings estimates is the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), carried out by the Office for National Statistics. The following table shows the median gross weekly pay for employee by gender in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The median is the recommended measure of average earning. Median Gross Weekly Pay (£) for Employee Jobs in Scotland by Gender | Gender | Year | | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | | Male | 465.70 | 471.00 | 483.00 | | Female | 303.90 | 313.00 | 313.00 | | All | 375.00 | 384.50 | 393.30 | Source: ASHE. Notes: 1. The estimates are based on the earnings of employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay-period was not affected by absence. 2. The estimates are based on a sample survey, and as such, are subject to sampling error. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245939,"EventID":"S3W-39427","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of male employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of male employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39426 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245940,"EventID":"S3W-39428","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of female employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of female employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39426 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245941,"EventID":"S3W-39429","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time employees in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The preferred source for earnings estimates is the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), carried out by the Office for National Statistics. The following table shows the median gross weekly pay for employee by gender in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The median is the recommended measure of average earning. Table 1 “ Median Gross Weekly Pay (£) for Full-Time Employee Jobs in Scotland by Gender and Public/Private Sector Classification | Gender | Sector | Year | | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | | Male | Public | 548.10 | 565.60 | 579.60 | | Private | 485.20 | 480.00 | 495.10 | | Female | Public | 488.10 | 514.40 | 536.90 | | Private | 343.00 | 345.00 | 350.00 | | All | All | 462.60 | 472.80 | 488.20 | Source: ASHE. Notes: 1. The estimates are based on the earnings of full-time employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay-period was not affected by absence. 2. The estimates are based on a sample survey, and as such, are subject to sampling error. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245942,"EventID":"S3W-39430","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time male employees in the public sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time male employees in the public sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39429 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245943,"EventID":"S3W-39431","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time female employees in the public sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time female employees in the public sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39429 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245944,"EventID":"S3W-39432","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time male employees in the private sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time male employees in the private sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39429 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245945,"EventID":"S3W-39433","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time female employees in the private sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the median gross weekly pay has been of full-time female employees in the private sector in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39429 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245946,"EventID":"S3W-39434","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-04T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it monitors how the funding awarded to local authorities and other organisations from the Town Centre Regeneration Fund has been spent.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it monitors how the funding awarded to local authorities and other organisations from the Town Centre Regeneration Fund has been spent.","AnswerText":"Under the terms and conditions of the Town Centre Regeneration Fund grant, grantees are required to keep Scottish Ministers informed of the progress of their projects. They are required to submit progress reports which include details of actual expenditure and any change to estimated expenditure for the financial year and/or the project as a whole along with the reasons for any changes and progress in achieving outputs/outcomes. On completion, grantees are required to submit a final report summarising the outcomes and performance of the project. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245947,"EventID":"S3W-39435","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many persons received a custodial sentence of one year or less in 2009-10, broken down by main crime or offence as per table 10(c) of the Criminal Proceedings in Scot","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many persons received a custodial sentence of one year or less in 2009-10, broken down by main crime or offence as per table 10(c) of the Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2009-10 statistical bulletin.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. The two convictions for homicide listed below relate to one case of causing death by dangerous driving and an illegal driver involved in a fatal accident. Persons Receiving a Custodial Sentence by Crime or Offence where the Length of Sentence was One Year or Less, 2009-10 | Main Crime or Offence | One Year or Less | | All crimes and offences | 13,089 | | All crimes | 8,649 | | Non-sexual crimes of violence | 404 | | Homicide | 2 | | Serious assault and attempted murder | 202 | | Robbery | 147 | | Other | 53 | | Crimes of indecency | 66 | | Rape and attempted rape | 0 | | Indecent assault | 13 | | Lewd and indecent behaviour | 38 | | Other | 15 | | Crimes of dishonesty | 4,438 | | Housebreaking | 673 | | Theft by opening a lockfast place | 252 | | Theft of/from a motor vehicle | 191 | | Shoplifting | 2,100 | | Other theft | 717 | | Fraud | 177 | | Other | 328 | | Fire raising, vandalism etc. | 397 | | Fire-raising | 31 | | Vandalism etc | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245948,"EventID":"S3W-39436","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2110,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":66,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it plans to take forward regeneration policy.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it plans to take forward regeneration policy.","AnswerText":"On 9 February 2011 I will be launching a discussion paper on regeneration: Building a Sustainable Future. This discussion paper will provide an opportunity for regeneration practitioners and other stakeholders from national and local government, the wider public, private and third sectors, and communities themselves to come together to discuss and debate the key challenges and opportunities for regeneration in the future. A copy of the regeneration paper is available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52405). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245949,"EventID":"S3W-39437","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the basis was for the amount included in Highland Council’s budget for the National Centre for Excellence in Traditional Music.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the basis was for the amount included in Highland Council’s budget for the National Centre for Excellence in Traditional Music.","AnswerText":"The previously ring-fenced funding for national centres of excellence was rolled-up into the local government finance settlement with effect from 1 April 2008. The £410,000 provided to Highland Council to assist with the running costs of the National Centre for Excellence in Traditional Music was a figure that emerged from a 2005 revision of all the centres'' funding and was based largely on the number of residential and non-residential pupils at that time. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245950,"EventID":"S3W-39438","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what understanding was reached with or through COSLA regarding increased funding for particular local authorities for national centres of excellence in education being in","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what understanding was reached with or through COSLA regarding increased funding for particular local authorities for national centres of excellence in education being intended for the continuation of such centres.","AnswerText":"Under the terms of the Concordat it was agreed by Scottish Ministers and the COSLA Presidential Team that, as part of the funding package for 2008-11, the Scottish Government would substantially reduce the number of separate funding streams, thereby allowing local authorities much more freedom in how they allocate their total resources. The funding for national centres of excellence in education was one of the many ring-fenced funding streams rolled up with effect from 1 April 2008. Although the funding for centres of excellence is no longer separately identifiable, the provision is still recognised in the needs based distribution formula. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245951,"EventID":"S3W-39439","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is regarding a local authority no longer providing funding for a national centre of excellence in education for which its annual funding had been specif","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is regarding a local authority no longer providing funding for a national centre of excellence in education for which its annual funding had been specifically increased.","AnswerText":"The previously ring-fenced funding for national centres of excellence was rolled-up into the local government finance settlement with effect from 1 April 2008. Although the provision for national centres of excellence is still recognised in the needs-based distribution formula there is no separately identifiable funding. If a local authority were to withdraw this service, this could impact on the future funding allocations for that local authority. The Scottish Government''s view is that it would not be appropriate for a local authority to benefit at the expense of other local authorities, within the distribution formula, in relation to a facility or service that it no longer provides. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245952,"EventID":"S3W-39440","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the Healthy Living Alliance.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met the Healthy Living Alliance.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Executive last met with the Scottish Healthy Living Centre Alliance (SHLCA) on 3 November 2010. The main item for discussion was a request from SHLCA for financial support from the Scottish Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245953,"EventID":"S3W-39441","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice’s comments to the Justice Committee on 28 May 2009 that the Scottish Government wants “to ensure that the proceeds of crime ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice’s comments to the Justice Committee on 28 May 2009 that the Scottish Government wants “to ensure that the proceeds of crime go back to agencies so that we have that virtuous circle”, that it “will work with ACPOS to try to strike a balance” and that he was “more than happy to keep Parliament abreast of developments” (Official Report, c. 18006), (a) what agencies it considers should receive a share of proceeds of crime funds, (b) how it will strike this balance, (c) what discussions it has had with ACPOS on this issue and (d) what action it has taken since 28 May 2009 to keep the Parliament updated on progress on this issue.","AnswerText":"The vast majority of monies recovered under proceeds of crime legislation is being invested in the Scottish Government''s Cashback for Communities scheme, which make a real difference to the lives of young people in our communities across Scotland. Where a case can be made that it will increase receipts, we are prepared to reinvest some of the proceeds in enhancing the efforts of the agencies directly involved in recovering those assets and criminal profits. That is why the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service has been given £400,000 per annum for the last two years to recruit and retain specialist staff. After discussion with ACPOS we have also provided £500,000 to allow three police forces to recruit financial investigators. This funding was matched by the three police forces and has resulted in an additional 19 financial investigators being recruited. This pilot will be evaluated later this year before a decision is taken on whether to roll out or extend the arrangement to other police forces. The funding for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service was highlighted to the Parliament during the Cashback for Communities debate on 28 May 2009 and the funding allocation for the police was highlighted during the serious organised crime debate on 11 March 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245954,"EventID":"S3W-39442","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice’s comments to the Justice Committee on 28 May 2009 that the Scottish Government wants “to ensure that the proceeds of crime ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice’s comments to the Justice Committee on 28 May 2009 that the Scottish Government wants “to ensure that the proceeds of crime go back to agencies so that we have that virtuous circle” and that it “will work with ACPOS to try to strike a balance” (Official Report, c. 18006), whether it considers that the majority of the money should be reinvested through CashBack for Communities to invest in communities that have suffered crime and in activities that will reduce crime.","AnswerText":"The vast majority of recoveries in Scotland under proceeds of crime legislation has been invested through the CashBack for Communities programme, with a commitment of over £30.5 million from 2008-14. Such funds have been used in a positive way to expand young people''s horizons and increase the opportunities they have to develop their interests and skills, demonstrated by over 300,000 young participants across Scotland. This programme remains an effective way to create diversionary activities for young people, focussing their delivery to benefit communities that have suffered as a result of criminal activity. This commitment includes £6.5 million to Youthlink Scotland to provide funding for projects which further support young people involved, or at risk from violence, alcohol, drugs or antisocial behaviour. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245955,"EventID":"S3W-39443","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2059,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":18,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-07T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many individuals were convicted of carrying a knife or other offensive weapon in 2009-10, broken down by (a) manner of disposal and (b) local authority area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many individuals were convicted of carrying a knife or other offensive weapon in 2009-10, broken down by (a) manner of disposal and (b) local authority area.","AnswerText":"Latest statistics show a downward trajectory across the country in the fight against knives with homicide rates down to their lowest level in 31 years, the number of homicides using a sharp instrument down 39% between 2008-09 and 2009-10, the number of people caught carrying a knife down to its lowest level in a decade and sentence lengths for such crimes at their longest in a decade, but there will be no let up in our efforts as every knife incident is one too many. The available information is given in the following table. Persons with a Charge Proved in Scottish Courts for Handling Offensive Weapons1 by Approximate Local Authority Area2, 2009-10 | Local Authority/Crime | Custody | Community Sentence | Monetary | Other | Total | | Aberdeen City | | | | | | | Having in a public place an article with a blade or point | 9 | 10 | 21 | 6 | 46 | | Possession of an offensive weapon | 9 | 22 | 20 | 9 | 60 | | Restriction of offensive weapons | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Total | 18 | 32 | 41 | 15 | 106 | | Aberdeenshire | | | | | | | Having in a public place an article with a blade or point | 5 | <","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245956,"EventID":"S3W-39444","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-38040, S3W-38041 and S3W-38607 by Keith Brown on 15 and 16 December 2010 and 2 February 2011 respectively, at what point the iter","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-38040, S3W-38041 and S3W-38607 by Keith Brown on 15 and 16 December 2010 and 2 February 2011 respectively, at what point the iterative process for defining the timeline of the transport plan for the 2014 Ryder Cup will be concluded.","AnswerText":"The development of the plan will continue up to the start of the event. A review of the plan in operation will be carried out during the practice days to determine whether any final refinements are required. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245957,"EventID":"S3W-39445","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patient safety incidents were reported in the NHS between 2007 and 2010 involving loading dose errors.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patient safety incidents were reported in the NHS between 2007 and 2010 involving loading dose errors.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245958,"EventID":"S3W-39446","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the report in volume 305 of The Journal of the American Medical Association, whether there will be a review of the prescription status of Bevacizamub prescri","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, in light of the report in volume 305 of The Journal of the American Medical Association, whether there will be a review of the prescription status of Bevacizamub prescribing in the NHS.","AnswerText":"The safety of bevacizumab (Avastin) is closely monitored by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency in conjunction with other European member states and the European Medicines Agency. The recent publication in the Journal of the American Medical Association which suggested that bevacizumab was associated with an increased risk of fatal adverse effects is being assessed at European level in the context of other information relating to the balance of risk and benefits of Avastin in the treatment of cancer. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245959,"EventID":"S3W-39447","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its approach is to ensuring that cascade screening for familial hyercholesterolaemia is being fully implemented in the NHS once a family member is diagnosed with thi","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its approach is to ensuring that cascade screening for familial hyercholesterolaemia is being fully implemented in the NHS once a family member is diagnosed with this condition.","AnswerText":"Our Better Heart Disease and Stroke Care Action Plan (June 2009) sets out actions designed to ensure that people with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) are identified as soon as possible and receive the treatment they need, in order to minimise the risk of complications. The action plan also highlights the importance of cascade screening for FH, as endorsed by the National Screening Committee. Implementation of that approach is being taken forward through the NHS QIS Standards for Heart Disease, published in April 2010. One of the essential criteria in Standard 4 (Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease) is Individuals who are relatives of patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia are identified through cascade testing and managed in line with current national guidelines. We expect NHS boards to provide services that meet these standards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245960,"EventID":"S3W-39448","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39180 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, what steps are being taken to ensure that all non-smoking prisoners and staff are prot","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39180 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, what steps are being taken to ensure that all non-smoking prisoners and staff are protected from passive smoking.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: Smoking by staff and prisoners is not permitted in any enclosed space on SPS property with the exception that prisoners are able to smoke in their cells. The Prisons and Young Offenders Institutions (Scotland) Rules, Rule 31, states that no prisoner shall smoke in a prison except: In a cell or room in which that prisoner is accommodated by him or herself or; In a cell or room in which that prisoner is accommodated and which the Governor designates as a smoking area in accordance with a direction given by Scottish ministers or; In the open air; in any place as Scottish ministers may specify in a direction. Prisoners admitted to SPS establishments are subject to a cell sharing risk assessment as part of the reception process during which the prisoner can request a non-smoking cell. Where a non-smoking prisoner''s preference cannot be met immediately steps are taken to accommodate the request as soon as possible and for the position to be reviewed within 7 days. Blair House at HMYOI Polmont, opened in November 2009 for young offenders aged under 18. Prisoners in this age group are not permitted to purchase tobacco products and therefore Blair House is a totally smoke free environment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245961,"EventID":"S3W-39449","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many seal licences for killing (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted to (i) individuals, (","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many seal licences for killing (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted to (i) individuals, (ii) seal management groups and (iii) other groups or organisations.","AnswerText":"The total of 65 seal licences issued on 31 January 2011 consisted of four issued to seal management groups and 61 issued to other groups or organisations. No seal licences were issued to individuals. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245962,"EventID":"S3W-39450","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) common and (b) grey seals each (i) fish farm, (ii) river fishery board, (iii) marine coastal fishery, (iv) netsman and (v) other applicant for a seal licence","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many (a) common and (b) grey seals each (i) fish farm, (ii) river fishery board, (iii) marine coastal fishery, (iv) netsman and (v) other applicant for a seal licence under section 110(1)(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 (A) have requested to shoot and (B) will be permitted to shoot, broken down by seal management area.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland grants seal licences in response to applications received rather than to any individual fish farms or fisheries. Therefore all information held on licences is on the basis of applications, including numbers of seals applicants have requested to shoot and any maximum numbers that they will be permitted to shoot. This information is set out in Table 2 of the frequently asked questions paper at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/topics/marine/licensing/seallicensing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245963,"EventID":"S3W-39451","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many inspections of fish farms were undertaken by Marine Scotland to verify the use of non-lethal measures to deter grey and common seals before granting seal licence","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many inspections of fish farms were undertaken by Marine Scotland to verify the use of non-lethal measures to deter grey and common seals before granting seal licences to fish farms under section 110(1)(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010.","AnswerText":"The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 does not require Scottish ministers to have regard to any information about non-lethal measures in relation to licences granted under section 110(1)(f). In respect of the single application in relation to fish farms under section 110(1)(g), Marine Scotland undertook no inspections specifically for this purpose. Marine Scotland did however, take account of available information on non-lethal measures before granting a licence in consideration of all licences under sections 110(1)(f) and 110(1)(g). This included the fact that almost all fish farms seeking a seal licence already employ at least one and many a number of non-lethal measures. The non-lethal measure that is generally accepted to be most effective against seals is tensioned nets and almost all fish farms have such nets installed. In addition to this, almost half of fish farms use acoustic deterrents, a third seal blinds and a fifth anti-predator nets. There are a range of views on the effectiveness of these other measures but none have entirely eliminated the risk of seal predation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245964,"EventID":"S3W-39452","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many seal licences for (a) common and (b) grey seals under section 110(1)(f) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 were (i) applied for and (ii) granted to newly establis","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many seal licences for (a) common and (b) grey seals under section 110(1)(f) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 were (i) applied for and (ii) granted to newly established fish farms on the basis of information regarding the negative effects on the health and welfare of farmed fish not at the facility applying but at equivalent facilities in the same vicinity or of a similar type.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland grants licences in response to applications received rather than to individual fish farms. Therefore information received relates to applications which may or may not include individual newly established fish farms. In addition the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 does not require Scottish ministers to have regard to any information about damage caused by seals in relation to licences granted under section 110(1)(f). Marine Scotland nevertheless considers any available information about negative effects on the health and welfare of farmed fish. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245965,"EventID":"S3W-39453","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many fish farms seeking licences to kill (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 provided evidence of the cost or pote","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many fish farms seeking licences to kill (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 provided evidence of the cost or potential cost to the fish farm of the negative effects of seals on the health and welfare of farmed fish and what weight was given to this evidence in determining whether to grant a licence.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland grants licences in response to applications received rather than to individual fish farms. The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 does not require Scottish ministers to have regard to any information about damage caused by seals or non-lethal measure in relation to licences granted under section 110(1)(f). Marine Scotland nevertheless considers any available information about the cost or potential cost to the applicant of any negative effects on the health and welfare or farmed fish. Marine Scotland considers each application on a case by case basis against a range of factors and allocates appropriate weight to each. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245966,"EventID":"S3W-39454","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether applications for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) commons seals have been made to Marine Scotland under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether applications for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) commons seals have been made to Marine Scotland under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 and, if so, whether any licences have been granted to the same applicant under both categories.","AnswerText":"One applicant submitted applications for grey and common seals under both sections 110 (1)(f) and 110 (1)(g). A licence was granted to this applicant under each category with appropriate consideration of possible duplication and potential impact on local seal populations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245967,"EventID":"S3W-39455","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will verify that (a) grey and (b) common seals killed under seal licences under section 110(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 were shot only as a last re","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will verify that (a) grey and (b) common seals killed under seal licences under section 110(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 were shot only as a last resort in accordance with the Scottish Seal Management Code of Practice.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland will review the quarterly reports submitted by licensees and consider any other available evidence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245968,"EventID":"S3W-39456","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what methodology Marine Scotland has required applicants for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what methodology Marine Scotland has required applicants for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) common seals under section 110(1)(f) or (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 to use to establish how many seals they need to shoot in 2011.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland recommended that this assessment should be realistic and, wherever possible, based on previous experience. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245969,"EventID":"S3W-39457","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether applications for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) common seals have been received by Marine Scotland for purposes other than those described in section 110(1)(f","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether applications for seal licences for (a) grey and (b) common seals have been received by Marine Scotland for purposes other than those described in section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 and, if so, for what purposes, broken down by seal management area.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland received one application for a seal licence to take grey and common seals under section 110 (1) (a) for scientific research or educational purposes across all of Scotland. It did not seek to kill any seals. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245970,"EventID":"S3W-39458","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39117 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, whether it will place in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) the (a) ag","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39117 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, whether it will place in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) the (a) agendas, (b) training materials, (c) names, organisations and positions of attendees, (d) subsequent notes and (e) attendees’ evaluations of the events.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Resilience Development Service training materials and notes would be of considerable commercial advantage to private sector training providers. It would therefore not be appropriate to publish such material. In addition, the names, organisations and positions along with attendees'' evaluations could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. A description of the training events along with details of the location and number of attendees is available in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. Number 52523) ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245971,"EventID":"S3W-39459","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether waste disposal and electricity generation plants applying for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 require planning permission.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether waste disposal and electricity generation plants applying for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 require planning permission.","AnswerText":"Consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act can be granted only for electricity generating stations and functions on-site which are directly ancillary to electricity generation. Any function on-site which is not ancillary to electricity generation will require planning permission. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245972,"EventID":"S3W-39460","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of local residents when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of local residents when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"All representations made by members of the public, including the views of local residents, are taken into account before ministers determine an application under section 36. In addition, the views of local community councils are an important consideration for Scottish ministers in determining applications. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245973,"EventID":"S3W-39461","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of the local authority when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of the local authority when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"For a section 36 application, the relevant local planning authority is a statutory consultee throughout the whole process. The views of the local planning authority are a major factor considered by Scottish ministers in determining these applications. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245974,"EventID":"S3W-39462","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 198","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what emphasis it places on the views of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the local planning authority are statutory consultees in the Section 36 consultation process and are invited to comment on applications and the environmental statement produced by developers. The views of SEPA along with the other statutory consultees are a material consideration for ministers in their decision making process. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245975,"EventID":"S3W-39463","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a significant volume of heavy industrial traffic to and from a plant generating electricity from waste products would be a factor when considering an application ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a significant volume of heavy industrial traffic to and from a plant generating electricity from waste products would be a factor when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"Yes. Traffic assessment impacts are a material consideration in any planning application and in particular with those applications which are industrial in nature. Applications to Scottish ministers for power stations, and those for significant power lines, need to be accompanied by an environmental statement which describes the effects the development is likely to have on the environment. The environmental statement covers all elements that the development may have an impact upon, both in the construction phase of developments and in their day to day operations. Scotland has a robust consenting system and Scottish ministers will always seek to strike the right balance between developing and delivering Scotland''s energy future and protecting environmental, cultural heritage, economic and community issues. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245976,"EventID":"S3W-39464","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the location of a waste disposal and electricity generation plant within a two miles of a suburban neighbourhood would be a factor when considering an application","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the location of a waste disposal and electricity generation plant within a two miles of a suburban neighbourhood would be a factor when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"Yes. The location and proximity of neighbouring communities and dwellings in relation to proposed developments are a material consideration in any planning application. Applications to Scottish ministers for power stations, and those for significant power lines, need to be accompanied by an environmental statement which describes the effects the development is likely to have on the environment. The environmental statement covers all elements that the development may have an impact upon, both in the construction of developments and in their day to day operations. The application and the environmental statement are made available locally for public inspection. The local planning authority and public statutory bodies such as Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency are invited to comment on the application; their views and representations made to ministers by members of the public and other interested parties are considered during the decision making process. Scotland has a robust consenting system in place and Scottish ministers will always seek to strike the right balance between developing and delivering Scotland''s energy future and protecting environmental, cultural heritage, economic and community issues. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245977,"EventID":"S3W-39465","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the location of a waste disposal and electricity generation plant on a green field site in the countryside would be a factor when considering an application for c","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the location of a waste disposal and electricity generation plant on a green field site in the countryside would be a factor when considering an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.","AnswerText":"Yes. Green field sites are a material consideration in any planning application. Applications to Scottish ministers for power stations, and those for significant power lines, need to be accompanied by an environmental statement which describes the effects the development is likely to have on the environment. The environmental statement covers all elements that the development may have an impact upon, both in the construction phase of developments and in their day to day ongoing operations. The applications, and the environmental statement, are made available locally for public inspection. The local planning authority and public statutory bodies such as Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency are invited to comment on the application; their views and representations made to ministers by members of the public and other interested parties are considered during the decision making process. Scotland has a robust consenting system in place for section 36 applications and Scottish ministers will always seek to strike the right balance between developing and delivering Scotland''s energy future and protecting environmental, cultural heritage, economic and community issues. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245978,"EventID":"S3W-39466","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply will be distributed to local authorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply will be distributed to local authorities.","AnswerText":"The £268.5 million allocated to Supporting Economic Growth/Housing Supply in the Draft Budget 2011-12 covers a range of expenditure. This includes spending commitments in relation to previously approved affordable housing and regeneration projects, and new investment in affordable housing supply through the New Supply Shared Equity Scheme with Developers (amounting to £5 million), and the Investment and Innovation Fund (IIF) (amounting to £50 million). Our current proposed timetable is that IIF bids will be assessed in June/July 2011 and allocations, including those to local authorities for council house building, will be decided in August 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245979,"EventID":"S3W-39467","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply will be distributed to local authorities.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply will be distributed to local authorities.","AnswerText":"The £268.5 million allocated to Supporting Economic Growth/Housing Supply in the Draft Budget 2011-12 covers a range of expenditure. This includes spending commitments in relation to previously approved affordable housing and regeneration projects, and new investment in affordable housing supply through the New Supply Shared Equity Scheme with Developers (amounting to £5 million), and the Investment and Innovation Fund (IIF) (amounting to £50 million). Subject to receiving sufficient bids which meet the criteria, we plan to allocate at least £20 million of the IIF to local authorities for council house building. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245980,"EventID":"S3W-39468","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what formula will be used for distributing the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what formula will be used for distributing the £268.5 million identified in Scotland’s Spending Plans and Draft Budget 2011-12 for housing supply.","AnswerText":"The £268.5 million allocated to Supporting Economic Growth/Housing Supply in the Draft Budget 2011-12 covers a range of expenditure. This includes spending commitments in relation to previously approved affordable housing and regeneration projects, and new investment in affordable housing supply through the New Supply Shared Equity (NSSE) Scheme with Developers (amounting to £5 million), and the Investment and Innovation Fund (IIF) (amounting to £50 million). The IIF and NSSE funds will be allocated in due course on the basis of bids from potential housing providers. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245981,"EventID":"S3W-39469","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many outdoor education centre places have been available to schoolchildren in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many outdoor education centre places have been available to schoolchildren in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information. Information from inspection activities suggest that most primary schools provide children with an opportunity to experience a residential outdoor education experience at some point during primary school - most typically during P6 or P7 in which almost all young people participate. Most secondary schools provide young people with an opportunity for at least one residential stay of some description during secondary school but this might not be a traditional outdoor education type experience. Inspections suggest that opportunities for outdoor learning in secondary schools such as participation in the John Muir Award and Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Programmes are increasing and support the drive for greater opportunity for and recognition of wider achievement enshrined within the expectations of Curriculum for Excellence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245982,"EventID":"S3W-39470","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many outdoor education centre (a) instructors and (b) team leaders there have been in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many outdoor education centre (a) instructors and (b) team leaders there have been in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245983,"EventID":"S3W-39471","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much support it has made available to outdoor education centres in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much support it has made available to outdoor education centres in each year since 1999, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"Delivery of education is devolved to local authorities and funding for this is included in the local government settlement. It is for education authorities to consider the provision of outdoor education in their areas and make arrangements with providers as necessary, in addition to any facilities that they may operate. They are locally elected and accountable for such decisions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245984,"EventID":"S3W-39472","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many beavers have been captured in Tayside by Scottish Natural Heritage and where each is kept","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many beavers have been captured in Tayside by Scottish Natural Heritage and where each is kept","AnswerText":"One beaver has been captured in Tayside by Scottish Natural Heritage and is currently being kept at Edinburgh Zoo by the Royal Zoological Society for Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245985,"EventID":"S3W-39473","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the beaver captured in the River Ericht is alive and, if so, where it is kept","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the beaver captured in the River Ericht is alive and, if so, where it is kept","AnswerText":"No beaver has been trapped by Scottish Natural Heritage in the River Ericht. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245986,"EventID":"S3W-39474","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legal basis permits Scottish Natural Heritage to capture beavers on land where landowners are not willing to give them access","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legal basis permits Scottish Natural Heritage to capture beavers on land where landowners are not willing to give them access","AnswerText":"There are no powers which enable Scottish Natural Heritage to gain access to land to capture beavers where landowners are not willing to give them permission. However, The Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill, which was passed on 2 March 2011, introduces a new regime of species control orders that would enable access to land to control invasive non-native animals or plants. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245987,"EventID":"S3W-39475","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment was made of the impact on otters and other protected species by the trapping of beavers on Tayside.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment was made of the impact on otters and other protected species by the trapping of beavers on Tayside.","AnswerText":"Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) staff and volunteer trappers have conducted an informal assessment of the trapping sites and use local knowledge of the presence of otters and other protected species prior to making the decision to proceed with trapping. SNH does not conduct beaver trapping within 30 metres of otter holts. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245988,"EventID":"S3W-39476","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the (a) Tayside and (b) Knapdale beavers are legally termed as (i) res nullius or (ii) private property","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the (a) Tayside and (b) Knapdale beavers are legally termed as (i) res nullius or (ii) private property","AnswerText":"This would be a matter for the courts to determine. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245989,"EventID":"S3W-39477","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the criteria are for beavers to be permitted to become established in the wild","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the criteria are for beavers to be permitted to become established in the wild","AnswerText":"The licence application by Scottish Wildlife Trust/Royal Zoological Society of Scotland for the Knapdale Trial contains criteria for the success or failure of the beaver trial. If the Knapdale trial is judged successful these criteria could be used to inform the development of wider criteria relating to the possible establishment of beavers in the wild. Scottish ministers will not only assess the results of the Knapdale Trial, but also take into account other relevant information such as experience from Europe and North America and information from the Beaver-Salmonid Working Group which reports to the National Species Reintroduction Forum. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245990,"EventID":"S3W-39478","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many beavers are resident in the Knapdale trial area and, of these, how many (a) are the original beavers introduced, (b) have been born, (c) have died and (d) have g","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many beavers are resident in the Knapdale trial area and, of these, how many (a) are the original beavers introduced, (b) have been born, (c) have died and (d) have gone missing during the trial.","AnswerText":"There are 12 animals resident in the Knapdale trial area as of 18 February 2011. Specifically: (a) Six beavers of the original release and four from subsequent releases since June 2009 are currently resident in the Knapdale trial area. (b) Two beavers have been born within the site. (c) Two beavers died at the trial site (one of the original animals and one released since June 2009), and one animal (one of the original animals) was removed due to welfare reasons and later died at Edinburgh Zoo. (d) Three beavers have gone missing from the trial area and are now assumed to have died. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245991,"EventID":"S3W-39479","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive where the replacement beavers for the Knapdale trial originated.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive where the replacement beavers for the Knapdale trial originated.","AnswerText":"The replacement beavers were brought from the Telemark area of Norway. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245992,"EventID":"S3W-39480","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has an exit strategy for the Knapdale beaver trial should it find that the reintroduction of beavers is not appropriate and, if so, how such a strategy would b","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has an exit strategy for the Knapdale beaver trial should it find that the reintroduction of beavers is not appropriate and, if so, how such a strategy would be implemented","AnswerText":"The licence application by the Scottish Wildlife Trust/Royal Zoological Society of Scotland contains an exit strategy for implementation during, or at the end, of the trial. The exit strategy contains four options for implementation. These are: Option 1: Repatriation of animals to the country of origin/transfer to other reintroduction programmes; Option 2: Housing of animals in zoological collections; Option 3: Capturing, neutering and returning animals to live their life span in the wild; and Option 4: Humane control of animals. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245993,"EventID":"S3W-39481","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what costs it has incurred in respect of (a) local authority and (b) the Scottish Parliament elections in (i) 1999, (ii) 2003 and (iii) 2007, broken down by the relevant ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what costs it has incurred in respect of (a) local authority and (b) the Scottish Parliament elections in (i) 1999, (ii) 2003 and (iii) 2007, broken down by the relevant categories on the returning officer's forms.","AnswerText":"The cost of administering and running local government elections is met by local authorities from their general allocation. The UK Government provides funding to local authorities for costs associated with administering and running the Scottish Parliament elections. As a result the Scottish Government has not incurred expenditure against the categories on the returning officer''s forms for these elections. The Scottish Government did, however, contribute approximately £4.8 million to the cost of the electronic counting system for the 2007 elections. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245994,"EventID":"S3W-39482","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-08T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what costs it has incurred in each year since 1999 regarding the provision of information to the electorate on the (a) operation of and (b) voting system for the Scottish","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what costs it has incurred in each year since 1999 regarding the provision of information to the electorate on the (a) operation of and (b) voting system for the Scottish Parliament.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Parliament elections are currently the responsibility of the UK Government. Since 2000, the Electoral Commission has been responsible for providing guidance for voters, including information on the operation of and the voting system for the Scottish Parliament. As a result the Scottish Government has not incurred any expenditure on these issues. The Scottish Parliament itself also provides public information on the workings of the Parliament and the voting system. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245995,"EventID":"S3W-39483","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allowances it makes for (a) natural and (b) other anthropogenic causes of seal mortality when deciding the number of grey and common seals that may be shot under lic","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allowances it makes for (a) natural and (b) other anthropogenic causes of seal mortality when deciding the number of grey and common seals that may be shot under licence under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010.","AnswerText":"The calculation of the potential biological removal (PBR) figure which provides the basis for seal licensing, makes allowance for all natural causes of seal mortality and also includes a precautionary element. Marine Scotland makes additional allowance for other anthropogenic causes of seal mortality and for possible misidentification of species using best available information. Marine Scotland selected the PBR it considered most appropriate for the Moray Firth seal management area on the basis of five years of operational experience of seal management through the Moray Firth Seal Management Plan. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245996,"EventID":"S3W-39484","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allowance it makes for misidentification of species when deciding the number of grey and common seals that may be shot under licence under section 110(1)(f) and (g) ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allowance it makes for misidentification of species when deciding the number of grey and common seals that may be shot under licence under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39483 on 4 March 2011. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245997,"EventID":"S3W-39485","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Marine Scotland selected the highest number within the potential biological removal range calculated by the Sea Mammal Research Unit when deciding how man","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason Marine Scotland selected the highest number within the potential biological removal range calculated by the Sea Mammal Research Unit when deciding how many common seals could be killed under licence in the Moray Firth Seal Management Area.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39483 on 4 March 2011. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245998,"EventID":"S3W-39486","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it will take to reduce the numbers of seals killed in Scottish waters.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it will take to reduce the numbers of seals killed in Scottish waters.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has already achieved the most significant advance in seal protection in 40 years through the introduction of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010. This has made it an offence to kill any seal at any time unless under licence or to alleviate suffering. The number of seals permitted to be killed under licence is significantly less than any of the estimated figures previously offered by NGO''s. The Scottish Government will continue to consider how to reduce numbers of seals killed in Scottish waters. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":245999,"EventID":"S3W-39487","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the East Coast Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the East Coast Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a) Firth of Tay Seal Conservation Area and (b) the rest of the East Coast Seal Management Area and for how many seals in each.","AnswerText":"No licences to kill common seals have been granted in the East Coast Seal Management Area or in the Firth of Tay Seal Conservation Area. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246000,"EventID":"S3W-39488","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Moray Firth Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Moray Firth Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a) Moray Firth Seal Conservation Area and (b) the rest of the Moray Firth Seal Management Area and for how many seals in each.","AnswerText":"All licences issued for common seals in the Moray Firth Seal Management Area also lie within the Moray Firth Seal Conservation Area. The number of licences and the number of seals granted can be found in Tables 1 and 2 of the frequently asked questions paper at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/topics/marine/licensing/seallicensing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246001,"EventID":"S3W-39489","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Orkney and North Coast Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been gran","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Orkney and North Coast Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a) Orkney and North Coast Seal Conservation Area and (b) the rest of the Orkney and North Coast Seal Management Area, and for how many seals in each.","AnswerText":"In the Orkney and North Coast Seal Management Area a total of two licences for three common seals have been granted under section 110 (1)(f) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 for the area within the Orkney Seal Conservation Area and a further six licences for six common seals under section 110 (1)(g) have been granted for the rest of this seal management area, which lies outwith the seal conservation area. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246002,"EventID":"S3W-39490","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Shetland Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Shetland Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a) Shetland Seal Conservation Area and (b) the rest of the Shetland Seal Management Area and for how many seals in each.","AnswerText":"All licences issued for common seals in the Shetland Seal Management Area also lie within the Shetland Seal Conservation Area. The number of licences and number of seals granted can be found in tables 1 and 2 of the frequently asked questions paper at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/topics/marine/licensing/seallicensing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246003,"EventID":"S3W-39491","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Western Isles Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for t","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many licences to kill common seals in the Western Isles Seal Management Area under section 110(1)(f) and (g) of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 have been granted for the (a) Western Isles Seal Conservation Area and (b) the rest of the Western Isles Seal Management Area and for how many seals in each","AnswerText":"All licences issued for common seals in the Western Isles Seal Management Area also lie within the Western Isles Seal Conservation Area. The number of licences and the number of seals granted can be found in Tables 1 and 2 of the frequently asked questions paper at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/topics/marine/licensing/seallicensing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246004,"EventID":"S3W-39492","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which elements of the National Marine Plan will ensure that the development of aquaculture sites does not lead to the harassment of grey seals and common seals at haul-ou","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which elements of the National Marine Plan will ensure that the development of aquaculture sites does not lead to the harassment of grey seals and common seals at haul-out sites.","AnswerText":"The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 sets out that public authorities must take enforcement and authorisation decisions in accordance with the marine plan. The pre consultation draft National Marine Plan will include a map of seal haul-out sites as developed by the Sea Mammal Research Unit under consideration for designation under the act in order to protect seals from harassment. Once the plan is adopted by the Parliament any designated seal haul-out sites will be taken into account in planning decisions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246005,"EventID":"S3W-39493","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2188,"Party":"Scottish Green Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the impact of new fish farm developments on local seal populations is assessed during the screening process for new site designations and, if so, what reasons hav","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the impact of new fish farm developments on local seal populations is assessed during the screening process for new site designations and, if so, what reasons have been given by operators of new fish farms for applying for seal licences.","AnswerText":"The possible general impact of any proposed new fish farm development on local seal populations is currently one of a range of environmental issues that should be considered by developers and public authorities when considering relevant plans and development proposals including, where required, via strategic environmental assessments, environmental impact assessments and habitats regulations appraisals. The need for new fish farms to prevent serious damage to their site or stock and to protect the health and welfare of farmed fish against seal predation and the potential impact of this on local seal populations is considered separately by Marine Scotland as part of the process of consideration of any application for a seal licence under the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246006,"EventID":"S3W-39494","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the level of consultation carried out by Highland Council regarding the possible effect on pupils’ education arising from the loss of classroom as","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the level of consultation carried out by Highland Council regarding the possible effect on pupils’ education arising from the loss of classroom assistants.","AnswerText":"Highland Council is responsible for the delivery of education in its area. The employment and deployment of their staff in the delivery of that duty is a matter for the local authority. I understand that following the council meeting on 10 February 2011 Highland Council has agreed to set up a cross party group to review the level of assistance provided in primary school classrooms. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246007,"EventID":"S3W-39495","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been diagnosed with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria since 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients have been diagnosed with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria since 1999.","AnswerText":"The specific information requested is not available centrally. The number of patients with a diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria who have been treated in acute general hospitals in Scotland since 1999 is shown in the following table. NHS Scotland: Total Number of Patients with a Diagnosis of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria and Treated in Hospital Since 1999 | Year of Discharge | Number of Patients | | 1999 | 5 | | 2000 | 9 | | 2001 | 8 | | 2002 | 4 | | 2003 | 7 | | 2004 | 7 | | 2005 | 7 | | 2006 | 8 | | 2007 | 10 | | 2008 | 15 | | 2009 | 16 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246008,"EventID":"S3W-39496","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the supply of eculizumab for treating paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria is funded.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the supply of eculizumab for treating paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria is funded.","AnswerText":"NHS boards are expected to manage costs for the treatment of particular conditions from their overall board funding allocation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246009,"EventID":"S3W-39497","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2876,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the consultation papers on the reform of police and fire and rescue services will be published","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the consultation papers on the reform of police and fire and rescue services will be published","AnswerText":"The consultation papers, A consultation on the future of policing in Scotland and A consultation on the future of the fire and rescue service in Scotland, will be published on 10 February 2011. Copies of the consultations papers will be placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. numbers 52389 and 52390). ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246010,"EventID":"S3W-39498","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legal advice it provided to NHS Shetland regarding the handling of the two applications to open community pharmacies in Scalloway and when the advice was provided.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what legal advice it provided to NHS Shetland regarding the handling of the two applications to open community pharmacies in Scalloway and when the advice was provided.","AnswerText":"None. It is not for the Scottish Government to provide legal advice. Should NHS Shetland ever require legal advice on any matters, it should seek that advice from its own solicitors. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246011,"EventID":"S3W-39499","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason treatment with eculizumab for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haeamoglobinuria is not funded in Scotland","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason treatment with eculizumab for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haeamoglobinuria is not funded in Scotland","AnswerText":"Scotland has robust, equitable and transparent arrangements for the introduction of newly licensed and cost-effective medicines to treat all conditions, including those to treat rare conditions, through the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) and NHS Quality Improvement Scotland. These bodies operate independently from the Scottish Government and are widely acknowledged to be robust. The SMC has appraised Soliris (eculizumab) for use in NHSScotland to treat paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) but, as the holder of the marketing authorisation did not supply any economic analysis in their submission, the SMC was unable to recommend it for use in NHSScotland. Where a drug has not been recommended by the SMC, NHS boards have arrangements in place to facilitate clinically-led requests for medicines on a case-by-case basis for individual patients which, if supported, would be funded by the NHS board. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246012,"EventID":"S3W-39500","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the Audit Scotland report that notes a £400 million reduction in social care spending from 2007-08 to 2009-10","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the Audit Scotland report that notes a £400 million reduction in social care spending from 2007-08 to 2009-10","AnswerText":"The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing wrote to you on 10 February 2011 pointing out that rather than a £400 million reduction in social care spending over this period there was in fact a £400 million increase. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246013,"EventID":"S3W-39501","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the social care spend has been in each year from 2007-08, broken down by (a) local authority and (b) NHS board","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the social care spend has been in each year from 2007-08, broken down by (a) local authority and (b) NHS board","AnswerText":"Copies of social work net expenditure 2007-08 “ 2009-10 are available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52531). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246014,"EventID":"S3W-39502","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the amount announced for the reshaping care Change Fund was reduced from the planned £140 million to £70 million","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the amount announced for the reshaping care Change Fund was reduced from the planned £140 million to £70 million","AnswerText":"In early discussions, amounts ranged from £20 million to £140 million over the spending review period. The agreed position is £70 million for 2011-12, and subject to parliamentary approval over the spending review period, for this to be sustained for the following three years, giving at least £280 million, which is double the £140 million first mooted over the spending review period. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246015,"EventID":"S3W-39503","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many operations were cancelled by the NHS in 2009-10 and have been cancelled in 2010-11, broken down by NHS board","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many operations were cancelled by the NHS in 2009-10 and have been cancelled in 2010-11, broken down by NHS board","AnswerText":"The specific information requested is not available centrally. Information, although limited, is available on the number of hospital stays where operation or procedures were not carried out following admission to hospital. The latest yearly published information on the number of cancelled operations or procedures is for 2009-10 and this data is provided in the following table. Operations may be cancelled due a number of reasons such as a particularly high level of emergency admissions, staff sickness, the patient being unfit for treatment on admission or the patient having failed to follow pre-admission advice such as fasting before admission. NHSScotland: Number of Hospital Stays where a Cancelled Operation or Procedure Not Being Carried out has been Recorded1,2,3 in the Year Ending 31 March 2010 | NHS Board of Treatment | Number | | Ayrshire and Arran | 1,444 | | Borders | 147 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 614 | | Fife | 934 | | Forth Valley | 145 | | Grampian | 1,775 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 5,244 | | Highland | 902 | | Lanarkshire | 2,469 | | Lothian | 1,606 | | Orkney | 46 | | Shetland | 76 | | Tayside | 871 | | Western Isles | 67 | Notes: 1. Source ISD Scotland “ information derived from non-obstetric and non-psychiatric hospitals. 2. Up to six diagnoses (one principal and five secondary) are recorded on SMR01 returns. All six diagnoses positions have been used to identify cancelled operations. The following International Statistical Classification of Disease and Related Health Problems 10th Revision (ICD -10) code has been used to identify cancelled operations/procedures “ Z53; person encountering health services for specific procedure not carried out. 3. Cases were an operation or procedure was cancelled prior to the patient being admitted to hospital are excluded. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246016,"EventID":"S3W-39504","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many readmissions to hospital there were in the NHS in 2009-10 and have been in 2010-11, broken down by NHS board","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many readmissions to hospital there were in the NHS in 2009-10 and have been in 2010-11, broken down by NHS board","AnswerText":"Table 1 shows the 28-day hospital emergency readmission rate in the financial years ending 31 March 2009 and 2010, broken down by NHS board of residence. Data for the financial year ending 31 March 2011 will be available in September 2011. The period of 28 days is to some extent arbitrary, but has been widely adopted as maximising the trade off between including as many readmissions related to the initial admission as possible and excluding as many unrelated readmissions as possible. The figures include readmissions within 28 days whether or not the readmission was related to the previous hospital stay. Table 1: Number of Discharges with a Subsequent Emergency Readmission within 28 days, and Hospital Emergency Readmission Rate as a Percentage of All Discharges, by NHS Board of Residence; Financial Years 2008-09 and 2009-10 | NHS Board | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Number of Admissions | Number of Re-admissions | % Readmitted | Number of Admissions | Number of Re-admissions | % Readmitted | | NHS Ayrshire and Arran | 96,809 | 7,890 | 8.2% | 99,182 | 8,286 | 8.4% | | NHS Borders | 24,750 | 2,229 | 9.0% | 24,226 | 2,135 | 8.8% | | NHS Dumfries and Galloway | 33,890 | 2,534 | 7.5% | 34,568 | 2,490 | 7.2% | | NHS Fife | 75,829 | 5,657 | 7.5% | 75,902 | 5,501 | 7.2% | | NHS Forth Valley | 46,618 | 4,069 | http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/3426.html. Table 1: Average Number of Available Staffed Beds in Scotland for all Acute Specialties; Financial year 1985-86 to 2009-10 | Financial Year | Number of Beds | | 1985-86 | 23,002 | | 1986-87 | 22,649 | | 1987-88 | 22,322 | | 1988-89 | 21,904 | | 1989-90 | 21,578 | | 1990-91 | 21,396 | | 1991-92 | 20,724 | | 1992-93 | 20,747 | | 1993-94 | 20,308 | | 1994-95 | 19,941 | | 1995-96 | 19,678 | | 1996-97 | 19,391 | | 1997-98 | 19,058 | | 1998-99 | 18,764 | | 1999-00 | 18,456 | | 2000-01 | 18,091 | | 2001-02 | 18,029 | | 2002-03 | 17,903 | | <","AnswerDate":"2011-03-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246018,"EventID":"S3W-39506","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will provide health services in the Scottish Prison Service and where the funding will come from","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will provide health services in the Scottish Prison Service and where the funding will come from","AnswerText":"Health boards already provide specialist services to prisoners. Responsibility for providing primary healthcare to prisoner''s healthcare will transfer from the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) to the health boards. The planned date for the transfer is the end of October 2011. Funding for the provision of primary healthcare services will be transferred from SPS to the health boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246019,"EventID":"S3W-39507","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether territorial health boards will be responsible for the funding of the minor ailments scheme","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether territorial health boards will be responsible for the funding of the minor ailments scheme","AnswerText":"No changes to the current arrangements are proposed. Remuneration to community pharmacies for providing the Minor Ailment Service (MAS) will continue to be funded by the Community Pharmacy Global Sum. Reimbursement for products dispensed under MAS will continue to be met by territorial health boards'' drugs budgets. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246020,"EventID":"S3W-39508","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost of the minor ailments scheme has been in each year since its inception, also broken down by NHS board","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost of the minor ailments scheme has been in each year since its inception, also broken down by NHS board","AnswerText":"Total remuneration and reimbursement costs relating to the Minor Ailment Service (MAS) are provided in the following table: Total Cost for Minor Ailment Service, by Health Board and Financial Year (£) | Dispensing NHS Board | 2006-071 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-112 | | Scotland | 7,803,211 | 11,304,601 | 14,557,024 | 16,225,626 | 8,541,116 | | Ayrshire and Arran | 1,105,838 | 1,161,182 | 1,326,473 | 1,418,767 | 739,608 | | Borders | 152,276 | 242,843 | 315,539 | 364,819 | 190,977 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 177,340 | 292,021 | 399,526 | 447,702 | 231,920 | | Fife | 448,516 | 748,425 | 955,404 | 1,052,149 | 549,701 | | Forth Valley | 342,490 | 592,706 | 827,669 | 922,780 | 472,771 | | Grampian | 564,372 | 906,767 | 1,266,435 | 1,405,013 | 730,917 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 2,154,662 | 2,977,423 | 3,818,020 <","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246021,"EventID":"S3W-39509","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have accessed the minor ailments scheme in each year since its inception, also broken down by NHS board","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have accessed the minor ailments scheme in each year since its inception, also broken down by NHS board","AnswerText":"The number of people who access the Minor Ailment Service (MAS) is not available centrally, however, the number of registrations can be found in the following table. Total Number of Minor Ailment Service Patients Registered by Health Board in March 2007 to 2010 | Dispensing NHS Board | March 20071 | March 2008 | March 2009 | March 2010 | | Scotland | 726,058 | 586,336 | 657,418 | 722,209 | | Ayrshire and Arran | 88,806 | 58,246 | 62,818 | 69,742 | | Borders | 17,315 | 11,564 | 15,672 | 16,221 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 16,649 | 14,110 | 20,443 | 21,462 | | Fife | 52,393 | 42,065 | 45,101 | 49,754 | | Forth Valley | 32,678 | 33,403 | 36,910 | 38,427 | | Grampian | 47,501 | 39,771 | 46,745 | 48,854 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 187,602 | 161,717 | 182,759 | 205,569 | | Highland | 30,363 | 24,796 | 27,038 | 34,661 | | Lanarkshire | 82,440 | 78,048 ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246023,"EventID":"S3W-39511","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will require NHS boards to use nationally agreed nursing workforce and workload planning tools and produce detailed clinical assessment plans before plans are ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will require NHS boards to use nationally agreed nursing workforce and workload planning tools and produce detailed clinical assessment plans before plans are agreed and implemented","AnswerText":"We will continue to encourage NHS boards to use workforce and workload planning tools when undertaking workforce planning to produce detailed clinical assessment plans. The boards then use this information to decide the service provision required to deliver high quality, safe and sustainable services to meet the needs of the population. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246024,"EventID":"S3W-39512","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards are negotiating compromise agreements with staff","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards are negotiating compromise agreements with staff","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246025,"EventID":"S3W-39513","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry will be concluded","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry will be concluded","AnswerText":"Lord MacLean, Chairman of the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry, has written to me requesting an extension to the Inquiry as he considers that it will not be possible for him to produce a comprehensive and robust report within the current timescales. I have not yet agreed this further extension and discussions with Lord MacLean continue. As soon as a date for publishing the final report has been agreed, I will inform the Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246026,"EventID":"S3W-39514","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the number of people affected by Clostridium difficile at the Vale of Leven hospital has changed since originally reported","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the number of people affected by Clostridium difficile at the Vale of Leven hospital has changed since originally reported","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39515 on 23 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246027,"EventID":"S3W-39515","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the view of the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry that 60 people were affected during the outbreak and that 38 people subsequently died","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the view of the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry that 60 people were affected during the outbreak and that 38 people subsequently died","AnswerText":"The inquiry''s investigations are ongoing and I understand that they are currently investigating the treatment of 60 patients at the Vale of Leven Hospital, including 38 deaths. That does not mean that the inquiry has concluded that the outbreak caused 38 deaths. The terms of reference provided the inquiry with a wide discretion to investigate the matter thoroughly. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246028,"EventID":"S3W-39516","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it was told by the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry that there would be a further delay in reporting","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it was told by the Vale of Leven Hospital Inquiry that there would be a further delay in reporting","AnswerText":"Lord MacLean wrote to me on 10 December 2010 informing me that because hearings scheduled for December 2010 had to be cancelled, due to adverse weather, there would be an impact on the overall inquiry timetable and a delay in publishing the final report at the end of May 2011. Lord MacLean also advised that, on further investigation of the commissioned witness statements and the evidence gathered, it had become apparent that for the experts to produce high quality and credible reports they would require additional time. It is extremely important that the final report and its recommendations are robust in order that the Scottish Government can consider how these recommendations can assist in continuing to raise the standard of care for patients in Scotland and that the lessons learned can be shared not just across NHS Scotland but worldwide. However, I have not yet agreed this further extension. Discussions with Lord MacLean continue and as soon as a date for publishing the final report has been agreed, I will inform the Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246029,"EventID":"S3W-39517","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is legal to charge VAT on the cost of social care services","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is legal to charge VAT on the cost of social care services","AnswerText":"The provision of what are termed welfare services is exempt from VAT when provided by designated organisations. These include public bodies such as government departments, local authorities and NHS boards. In most cases social care services would be classified as welfare services and as NHS boards are a designated bodies for the purposes of these rules, it is likely that any such charges would be exempt from VAT. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246030,"EventID":"S3W-39518","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2049,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding (a) it and (b) its agencies have given to the Scottish Football Association and other football governing bodies in each of the last 10 years for which i","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding (a) it and (b) its agencies have given to the Scottish Football Association and other football governing bodies in each of the last 10 years for which information is available and on what contractual basis","AnswerText":"In the three years from 2008-09, the Scottish Football Association was awarded £2.535 million direct from the Scottish Government to deliver a wide range of football opportunities as part of the Cashback for Communities programme. A further £2 million has been provided from the Cashback for Communities programme to sportscotland to help support the delivery of quality facilities in communities across Scotland. The Scottish Football Association has received significant funding from sportscotland in each of the last ten years to support the implementation of the sport''s development plan. The level of investment is an operational matter and I have asked the chief executive of sportscotland, Stewart Harris, to provide the detailed information requested. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246031,"EventID":"S3W-39519","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will launch its consultation on the reform of (a) policing and (b) fire and rescue services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will launch its consultation on the reform of (a) policing and (b) fire and rescue services.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39497 on 10 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246032,"EventID":"S3W-39520","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is the appropriateness of an individual who has committed 160 previous offences receiving a community payback order.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is the appropriateness of an individual who has committed 160 previous offences receiving a community payback order.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has introduced the new community payback order so that low level offenders will be made to do work in the community backed by action to address the underlying causes which fuel the crime, such as alcohol, drugs and mental health issues, because the evidence shows these sentences are far more effective than those received by the 70% of individuals who are currently reoffending after serving short term prison sentences. It remains for the court to determine the most appropriate penalty in each case, based on its assessment of the particular details and circumstances of the offender and the offence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246033,"EventID":"S3W-39521","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offenders breached the terms of their community service order in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10, broken down by local authority area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offenders breached the terms of their community service order in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10, broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"Information is not collected on the number of proven breaches or the number of offenders involved. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246034,"EventID":"S3W-39522","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offenders breached the terms of their probation order in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10, broken down by local authority area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many offenders breached the terms of their probation order in (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10, broken down by local authority area.","AnswerText":"Information is not collected on the number of proven breaches or the number of offenders involved. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246035,"EventID":"S3W-39523","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers knitting, embroidering and making candles to be (a) appropriate activities to be completed as part of community payback orders and (b) examples of to","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers knitting, embroidering and making candles to be (a) appropriate activities to be completed as part of community payback orders and (b) examples of tough manual labour as noted by the Cabinet Secretary for Justice in the news release, Greater say on community service, on 1 February 2011.","AnswerText":"Community payback is about offenders paying their dues to the community. That is why we announced that the new community payback order makes it a statutory obligation that local authorities will from now on have to consult the community on the type of work that they want to see low-level offenders carrying out in their areas as part of their community service. In this particular instance, this case related to a vulnerable women''s group, with finished articles going to the neo-natal unit at the local hospital. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246036,"EventID":"S3W-39524","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the appropriateness of an offender’s time spent on tea breaks being counted toward the number of hours served under a community payback order.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the appropriateness of an offender’s time spent on tea breaks being counted toward the number of hours served under a community payback order.","AnswerText":"The guidance on this issue is exactly the same as it was under the previous administration. The reference can be found at section 49.4 of the National Objectives for Social Work Services in the Criminal Justice System: Standards - Community Service published by the previous administration on 24 December 2004 at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2004/12/20475/49352. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246037,"EventID":"S3W-39525","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prisoners have applied to vote in the Scottish Parliament elections in May 2011, broken down by prison, in light of the possible impact on the Scottish Prison Se","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many prisoners have applied to vote in the Scottish Parliament elections in May 2011, broken down by prison, in light of the possible impact on the Scottish Prison Service.","AnswerText":"Electoral Registration Officers are responsible for maintaining the electoral register and dealing with applications from individuals to register to vote. The Scottish Government does not hold the information requested. Convicted prisoners cannot currently register to vote in elections. The franchise is the responsibility of the UK Government. UK Ministers have said that any change to the franchise will not apply to this year''s Scottish Parliament elections. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246038,"EventID":"S3W-39526","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39172 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, what it anticipates the reductions in police staff numbers will be in each of the next","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39172 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, what it anticipates the reductions in police staff numbers will be in each of the next four years.","AnswerText":"Police staff numbers are a matter for police authorities and chief constables. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246039,"EventID":"S3W-39527","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39172 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, how it will ensure that any reductions in police staff numbers do not impact on frontl","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39172 by Kenny MacAskill on 7 February 2011, how it will ensure that any reductions in police staff numbers do not impact on frontline policing.","AnswerText":"It is for chief constables to ensure the operational effectiveness of their force and protect frontline policing in their communities by making best use of the resources available to them. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246040,"EventID":"S3W-39528","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Police Officer Quarterly Strength Statistics Scotland, 31 December 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Police Officer Quarterly Strength Statistics Scotland, 31 December 2010.","AnswerText":"The statistical bulletin Police Officer Quarterly Strength Statistics Scotland, 31 December 2010, was published by the Scottish Government on 1 March 2011, and is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/PublicationPoliceStrength The dates of all Scottish Government Official and National Statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246041,"EventID":"S3W-39529","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Racist Incidents Recorded by the Police in Scotland, 2005/06 to 2009/10.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Racist Incidents Recorded by the Police in Scotland, 2005/06 to 2009/10.","AnswerText":"The statistical bulletin Racist Incidents Recorded by the Police in Scotland, 2004-05 to 2009-10, will be published by the Scottish Government on 29 March 2011, and will be available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/PubRacistIncidents. The dates of all Scottish Government official and national statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246042,"EventID":"S3W-39530","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Drug Seizures by Scottish Police Forces, 2007/2008 and 2008/09.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Drug Seizures by Scottish Police Forces, 2007/2008 and 2008/09.","AnswerText":"The statistical bulletin Drug Seizures by Scottish Police Forces, 2007/2008 and 2008/09, is due to be published by the Scottish Government in September 2011, and will be available at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/DrugSeizures. The dates of all Scottish Government Official and National Statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246043,"EventID":"S3W-39531","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Firearm Certificates Statistics, Scotland, 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date it will publish Firearm Certificates Statistics, Scotland, 2010.","AnswerText":"The statistical bulletin, Firearm Certificates Statistics, Scotland, 2010, is due to be published by the Scottish Government in May 2011, and will be available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/PubFirearmCertificates. The dates of all Scottish Government official and national statistics publications are pre-announced, and the up to date list of future publications can be found at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Search/Forthcoming. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246044,"EventID":"S3W-39532","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has made to the UK Government on the issue of prisoners’ rights to vote since the European Court of Human Rights ruling, in light of the possible ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has made to the UK Government on the issue of prisoners’ rights to vote since the European Court of Human Rights ruling, in light of the possible impact on Scottish prisons.","AnswerText":"In April 2009 the previous (Labour) UK Government issued its second consultation paper in response to the European Court''s ruling in the Hirst case. In the context of the then government''s conclusion in the light of the Court''s ruling that prisoners'' right to vote should be determined on the basis of their sentence the Scottish Government''s response to the UK Government made it clear that the burden on those affected (the Scottish Prison Service, the Court Service and electoral administrators) should be kept to a minimum. The Scottish Government has since made its general position (that we do not believe that convicted prisoners should be entitled to vote) known in numerous exchanges in the Scottish Parliament. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246045,"EventID":"S3W-39533","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2364,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":11,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39060 by Fergus Ewing on 8 February 2011, how much of the funding detailed in the table was provided via the Race, Religion and Ref","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-39060 by Fergus Ewing on 8 February 2011, how much of the funding detailed in the table was provided via the Race, Religion and Refugee Integration Fund, broken down by (a) organisation and (b) year of award.","AnswerText":"The funding to the Youth Community Support Agency was provided through the Race, Religion and Refugee Integration Funding Stream 2008-11. I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39060 on 8 February 2011 which already provides a breakdown by financial years. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246046,"EventID":"S3W-39534","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37941 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, whether it is aware of communications from Barnardo’s to ISEA Scotland stating that it is","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37941 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, whether it is aware of communications from Barnardo’s to ISEA Scotland stating that it is “firmly of the belief that the provision of Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE) do not apply to the award of the new contract”.","AnswerText":"It is not for ministers to comment on correspondence between third parties. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246047,"EventID":"S3W-39535","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37941 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, where the provision of Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 20","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37941 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, where the provision of Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE) apply, what the implications on the award of grant made by it are.","AnswerText":"The issue of whether the transfer of undertakings (protection of employment) regulations (TUPE) applies is a matter of law to be determined by the relevant parties or failing that by an Employment Tribunal. Such issues do not form part of our consideration of awards of grants, nor is it for ministers to speculate on the implications of such issues, nor comment on them, in relation to any specific case. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246048,"EventID":"S3W-39536","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37945 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, which officials attended the meeting on 21 October 2010 and what the key actions were.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37945 by Adam Ingram on 14 December 2010, which officials attended the meeting on 21 October 2010 and what the key actions were.","AnswerText":"The new Additional Support Needs National Advocacy Service will be delivered by a partnership between Barnardo''s and the Scottish Child Law Centre. Barnardo''s, which submitted the application on behalf of the partners, was informed that the application had been successful on 15 October 2010. A short introductory meeting was held with Barnardo''s and the Scottish Child Law Centre on 21 October 2010 to provide feedback on the application, meet key individuals who would be involved in delivering the service and discuss key actions in disseminating information. The Scottish Government was represented by Rachel Sunderland. Meeting participants recognised that whilst it was important to move quickly in establishing the new service it was essential that information remained confidential until all applicants had been informed of the outcome. A timetable for disseminating information was therefore provisionally agreed and key contacts identified in the event of further queries. Discussion also focused on the importance of ensuring minimal disruption in the service provided to parents and young people during the transition to the new national advocacy service. It was agreed that early meetings between Barnardo''s, the Scottish Child Law Centre and organisations currently providing advocacy would be helpful. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246049,"EventID":"S3W-39537","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37308 by Adam Ingram on 5 November 2010, whether the £100,000 funding made available is new funding.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37308 by Adam Ingram on 5 November 2010, whether the £100,000 funding made available is new funding.","AnswerText":"No, the £100,000 funding is provided from existing funding streams. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246050,"EventID":"S3W-39538","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2108,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":68,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on whether parents and young people can expect to receive legal representation as a result of calling the Scottish Child Law Centre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on whether parents and young people can expect to receive legal representation as a result of calling the Scottish Child Law Centre.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Child Law Centre supports children and families in Scotland through the provision of free, expert legal advice. Children and young people can seek advice through the centre''s free-phone line, email and text services. In 2010-11 the Scottish Government provided funding totalling more than £95,000 through the Unified Voluntary Sector Fund to support the centre''s work. We are also providing the centre with funding to support the delivery of Take Note “ the national advocacy service for children and young people who may need support, including representation, when they are appealing to the Additional Support Needs Tribunal for Scotland. Where appropriate, this support can include the provision of legal advocacy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246051,"EventID":"S3W-39539","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to reduce the time between onset of symptoms and a definitive diagnosis for endometriosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to reduce the time between onset of symptoms and a definitive diagnosis for endometriosis.","AnswerText":"Providing safe, effective, timely and person centred care is at the heart of the Government''s Quality Strategy. The clinical guidelines published by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in 2006 deal with the investigation and management of endometriosis, and should help with timely diagnosis. Implementation of these guidelines is a matter for NHS boards, and we expect all bodies within boards that have responsibility for clinical governance to have regard to such clinical guidelines. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246052,"EventID":"S3W-39540","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional funding has been offered to NHS boards for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what additional funding has been offered to NHS boards for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.","AnswerText":"It is the responsibility of NHS boards to provide the healthcare services required to meet the needs of their local populations, using the funding allocated to them by the Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246053,"EventID":"S3W-39541","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to support women employees who are diagnosed with endometriosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to support women employees who are diagnosed with endometriosis.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s Healthy Working Lives strategy promotes the benefits of policies and practices in the workplace that support staff to be fitter and healthier. The Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives is working with employers to promote and improve the health and wellbeing of employees, and to support those living with long term health conditions such as endometriosis. The centre provides a network of advisers, who offer information, access to tools and workplace visits to help implement the healthy working lives approach. In 2009, the Healthy Working Lives strategy underwent a review to refresh it in the light of the latest evidence and practices in working age health and wellbeing. The result is Health Works, an update that identifies a programme of action to ensure that the working age strategy remains relevant to the needs of the modern workplace. It encourages healthcare staff to take account of people''s employment aims. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246054,"EventID":"S3W-39542","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to raise public awareness of the symptoms and long-term effects of endometriosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to raise public awareness of the symptoms and long-term effects of endometriosis.","AnswerText":"We are committed to improving the quality and accessibility of information that is available to people and their carers throughout their care journey, both to raise awareness of individual conditions such as endometriosis, and to support their effective diagnosis and management. NHS Inform is our nationally co-ordinated approach to the provision of health and health service information. It is intended as a first point of contact for trusted quality assured health information for the public, patients and carers in Scotland. NHS Inform provides information on the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, which can be accessed by calling 0800, 22 44 88 or: http://www.nhsinform.co.uk/health-library/articles/e/endometriosis/introduction.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246055,"EventID":"S3W-39543","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to raise awareness among GPs of the symptoms of endometriosis in order to reduce waiting times for diagnosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to raise awareness among GPs of the symptoms of endometriosis in order to reduce waiting times for diagnosis.","AnswerText":"Gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis, are covered in the trainee GP curriculum and are assessed as part of the GP e-portfolio, a training resource overseen by the Royal Collage of General Practitioners (RCGP). Existing GPs are contractually committed to an annual educational appraisal and to developing their own learning needs. If a GP has recognised endometriosis as a learning need, this should form part of their Personal Education Plan. We are committed to shorter waiting times in GP practices and hospitals as they can lead to earlier diagnosis and better health outcomes for patients. NHS boards are working to deliver the challenging target that by the end of this year no patient should wait more than 18 weeks between GP referral and treatment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246056,"EventID":"S3W-39544","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1778,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":40,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to establish a coordinated central strategy to deal with endometriosis.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps have been taken to establish a coordinated central strategy to deal with endometriosis.","AnswerText":"Our Long Term Conditions Action Plan (June 2009) sets out our aim that throughout Scotland, those living with long term conditions such as endometriosis, and those who support them, feel valued, confident and able to enjoy full and positive lives. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246057,"EventID":"S3W-39545","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met members of the Scottish Section of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain and Ireland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met members of the Scottish Section of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain and Ireland.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not had any recent requests from the Scottish Section of the Showmen''s Guild of Great Britain and Ireland for a meeting. I last met with members of the Scottish section on 27 May 2009 and the First Minister hosted a reception for the Guild at Stirling Castle on 27 October 2009. We have a constructive relationship with the Guild, and on 26 November 2010 an official attended the Scottish Section''s annual luncheon in Glasgow. One of the issues raised at the event was the setting up of a Scottish Parliament Cross-Party Group for Showmen. Whilst this is not a matter for the Scottish Government, we would very much welcome the setting up of such a group. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246058,"EventID":"S3W-39546","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has regarding any recent communications to EU fisheries ministers by the International Commission for the Conservation of the Atlantic Tunas and other","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has regarding any recent communications to EU fisheries ministers by the International Commission for the Conservation of the Atlantic Tunas and other such bodies anent the likelihood of the extinction of the Atlantic bluefin tuna","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39547 on 1 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246059,"EventID":"S3W-39547","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recent discussions have taken place with UK and other EU fisheries ministers concerning the curtailment of the harvesting of bluefin tuna by fishing vessels register","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recent discussions have taken place with UK and other EU fisheries ministers concerning the curtailment of the harvesting of bluefin tuna by fishing vessels registered in EU ports","AnswerText":"The Scottish fishing fleet does not exploit opportunities for bluefin tuna and Scottish Ministers have had no recent discussions with their UK or EU counterparts about its exploitation by vessels registered in other EU ports. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246060,"EventID":"S3W-39548","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recent discussions it has had with UK transport ministers and officials anent the introduction of financial penalties in respect of train operators failing to deal w","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recent discussions it has had with UK transport ministers and officials anent the introduction of financial penalties in respect of train operators failing to deal with (a) overcrowding and (b) dirty trains","AnswerText":"Scottish ministers are responsible for monitoring and managing the ScotRail Franchise Agreement. The current franchise agreement includes a penalty regime for (a) operators failing to provide the planned capacity on services and (b) a service quality incentive regime which includes monitoring the cleanliness of trains and fails the operator where the specified standards are not met. Therefore there have been no discussions with UK transport ministers on these matters. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246061,"EventID":"S3W-39549","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether information is held centrally anent the number of properties built or adapted to rehouse disabled veterans in the last three years","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether information is held centrally anent the number of properties built or adapted to rehouse disabled veterans in the last three years","AnswerText":"The information on the number of properties built or adapted to rehouse disabled veterans is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246062,"EventID":"S3W-39550","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people are employed in dismantling offshore structures and installations and whether it has projections of the number of people likely to be so employed in the n","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people are employed in dismantling offshore structures and installations and whether it has projections of the number of people likely to be so employed in the next five years","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. Estimates from Oil and Gas UK suggest that the UKCS (UK Continental Shelf) decommissioning market could support between 8,000 and 10,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2015. The decommissioning market is set to grow over the next five years, the annual value exceeding £1 billion in today''s money for the first time in 2015. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246063,"EventID":"S3W-39551","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the implications are of reductions in public expenditure for those voluntary organisations and charities that deal with the care and rehabilitation of veterans","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the implications are of reductions in public expenditure for those voluntary organisations and charities that deal with the care and rehabilitation of veterans","AnswerText":"Project funding of £80,000 is being made available in 2011 to veterans'' organisations through the Scottish Veterans'' Fund. This level of funding is unchanged from previous years. More generally, the Scottish Government does not provide core funding to veterans'' organisations. Charities of this type should and do secure resources through collections, bequests, commercial activity and other forms of fund raising. Combat Stress is the leading charity in its field and the Scottish Government continues to provide £1.2 million per year for the provision of specialist mental health services at its Hollybush House facility in Ayr. A further £200,000 per year continues to be made available to support Combat Stress'' community outreach programme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246064,"EventID":"S3W-39552","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has discussed proposals for the fisheries research vessel, Scotia, to take on fisheries protection surveillance operations","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has discussed proposals for the fisheries research vessel, Scotia, to take on fisheries protection surveillance operations","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is not considering using its research vessel Scotia for fisheries protection surveillance operations. Accordingly there have been no discussions on this topic. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246065,"EventID":"S3W-39553","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2066,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-09T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what services NHSScotland provides for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haeamoglobinuria and whether the Scottish Government will make a statement on this matter","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what services NHSScotland provides for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haeamoglobinuria and whether the Scottish Government will make a statement on this matter","AnswerText":"Services for Scottish patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria are provided by the designated UK specialist centre in Leeds and an outreach clinic is provided by Monklands Hospital in Lanarkshire. This outreach clinic is run by the specialist from Leeds with support from local haematology consultant staff in Lanarkshire. NHSScotland funds the service through the NHS National Services Division (NSD). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246066,"EventID":"S3W-39554","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2674,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what arrangements have been made to ensure the security and confidentiality of the personal information collected in the forthcoming census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what arrangements have been made to ensure the security and confidentiality of the personal information collected in the forthcoming census.","AnswerText":"Every householder has a legal duty to provide information about the people in the household on Census Day, which is 27 March 2011. There is also a legal duty, under the Census (Confidentiality) Act 1991, which protects the confidentiality of the personal information which people supply in the census. The Registrar General, who is responsible for organising the census in Scotland, has commissioned an independent review, jointly with those responsible for the census in the rest of the UK, of the arrangements which have been made to ensure the security and confidentiality of that information. The report of the review has been placed in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52459). It concludes that: The public can be assured that the information that they provide to the 2011 censuses will be well protected. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246067,"EventID":"S3W-39555","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it designated for the Open Market Shared Equity scheme in 2009-10 and has designated for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it designated for the Open Market Shared Equity scheme in 2009-10 and has designated for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","AnswerText":"In 2009-10, £60 million was allocated to the Open Market Shared Equity pilot. For 2010-11, a further £20 million was allocated to extend the Open Market Shared Equity pilot. For 2011-12, the Scottish Government will allocate around £5 million to the Open Market Shared Equity scheme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246068,"EventID":"S3W-39556","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it designated for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2009-10 and has designated for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it designated for the New Supply Shared Equity scheme in 2009-10 and has designated for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","AnswerText":"In 2009-10, the Scottish Government allocated £32.564 million for New Supply Shared Equity/Shared Ownership to housing associations. In 2010-11, the Scottish Government allocated £21.902 million to New Supply Shared Equity/Shared Ownership for housing associations and a further £2.5 million to the New Supply Shared Equity with Developers Trial. For 2011-12, the Scottish Government plans to allocate £8 million to the New Supply Shared Equity with Developers scheme. The Scottish Government has also announced a £50 million Innovative Investment Fund scheme. New housing for shared equity will be eligible for funding under this scheme. Applications for funding are currently due to be received at the end of May 2011 and details on allocations will be announced thereafter. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246069,"EventID":"S3W-39557","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it has designated for the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding it has designated for the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"Scottish Enterprise has created the £70 million National Renewables Infrastructure Fund to support the development of offshore renewable energy manufacturing facilities over the next four years. Specific expenditure on an annual basis will depend upon proposals received, timing of funding requirement and factors including the level of market interest associated with each site. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246070,"EventID":"S3W-39558","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1857,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":15,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussion it has had with paediatric consultants regarding Glasgow’s new children’s hospital.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussion it has had with paediatric consultants regarding Glasgow’s new children’s hospital.","AnswerText":"The design for the new children''s hospital has been in development since June 2006, and at every stage there has been involvement and communication between the project team for the new children''s hospital and all staff at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, including the paediatric consultants. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246071,"EventID":"S3W-39559","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth has refused to meet West Dunbartonshire Council regarding its budget settlement for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth has refused to meet West Dunbartonshire Council regarding its budget settlement for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"I did not refuse to meet West Dunbartonshire Council. Following a request from the council, my office notified it that I would not be able to meet before the requested date of 27 January 2011 due to my other diary commitments. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246072,"EventID":"S3W-39560","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allocation of Supporting People funds it made in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and has made for (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12, broken down by local authori","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what allocation of Supporting People funds it made in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10 and has made for (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12, broken down by local authority.","AnswerText":"The allocation of the baselined ring-fenced Supporting People funding of £383.620 million for 2007-08, broken down by local authority, is provided in the following table. It should be noted that an additional £17.276 million in respect of Supporting People funding was also distributed in 2007-08 as one-off, non-baselined, payments. With effect from 1 April 2008 the baselined former ring-fenced Supporting People funding was rolled-up into the general local government finance settlement and distributed as part of the block grant which the Scottish Government provides to local authorities. There are, therefore, no separate Supporting People allocations of funding for the years 2008-12, although the distribution of the baselined provision of £383.620 million has been retained within the needs-based formula. The distribution of this provision for the years 2008-11 was based on a number of needs-based indicators agreed in 2004. These indicators were, at COSLA''s request, and as agreed at the Council Leaders'' meeting on 19 November 2010, updated for the 2011-12 distribution. The effects of using the 2004 indicators were dampened by an interim adjustment, introduced for the period 2005-08, which ensured that no local authority would lose more than 18 per cent of its funding over the period 2005-08 compared with it''s allocation in 2004-05. This adjustment was not retained in the 2011-12 calculations. Supporting People Baselined Allocations for 2007-08 | Local Authority | 2007-08 | | Aberdeen City | 11.370 | | Aberdeenshire | 9.289 | | Angus | 6.400 | | Argyll and Bute | 11.695 | | Clackmannanshire | 3.685 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 11.835 | | Dundee City | 11.536 | | East Ayrshire | 7.281 | | East Dunbartonshire | 5.012 | | East Lothian | 7.352 | | East Renfrewshire | 4.913 | | Edinburgh, City of | 35.081 | | Eilean Siar | 0.567 | | Falkirk | 8.716 | | Fife | 23.503 | | Glas","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246073,"EventID":"S3W-39561","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth will allocate Supporting People funding based on the decision reached at the COSLA leaders meeting on 19 ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth will allocate Supporting People funding based on the decision reached at the COSLA leaders meeting on 19 November 2010.","AnswerText":"With effect from 1 April 2008 the former ring-fenced Supporting People funding was rolled-up into the general local government finance settlement and distributed as part of the block grant which the Scottish Government provides to local authorities. There are, therefore, no separate Supporting People allocations of funding for the years 2008-12 although the distribution of this provision, including the updating of the indicators for 2011-12 as agreed at the Council Leaders meeting on 19 November 2010, has been retained within the needs-based formula. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246074,"EventID":"S3W-39562","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much Supporting People funding would be allocated to each local authority for 2011-12 based on the decision reached at the COSLA leaders meeting on 19 November 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much Supporting People funding would be allocated to each local authority for 2011-12 based on the decision reached at the COSLA leaders meeting on 19 November 2010.","AnswerText":"With effect from 1 April 2008 the former ring-fenced Supporting People funding was rolled-up into the general local government finance settlement and distributed as part of the block grant which the Scottish Government provides to local authorities. There are, therefore, no separate Supporting People allocations of funding for 2011-12 although the distribution of this funding has been retained within the needs-based formula. The distribution of this former ring-fenced funding was based on a number of needs-based indicators agreed in 2004. These indicators were, as agreed at COSLA''s leaders meeting held on 19 November 2010 updated for the 2011-12 distribution. The effects of using the 2004 indicators were dampened by an interim adjustment, introduced for the period 2005-08, which ensured that no local authority would lose more than 18 per cent of its funding over the period 2005-08 compared with it''s allocation in 2004-05. This adjustment was not retained in the 2011-12 calculations. In recognition of the impact that the dampening had on individual local authority funding allocation for 2011-12 I announced as part of the debate on the 2011-12 Scottish Budget on 9 February 2011 that I intend to allocate an additional £5 million to tackling the problem and have invited COSLA to match that amount. The distribution, once agreed with COSLA, will be included in the Local Government Finance (Scotland) Amendment Order 2011 to be tabled March 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246075,"EventID":"S3W-39563","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth will provide sufficient funds to (a) Argyll and Bute Council and (b) West Dunbartonshire Council to make ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth will provide sufficient funds to (a) Argyll and Bute Council and (b) West Dunbartonshire Council to make up the shortfall in Supporting People funding.","AnswerText":"I announced as part of the debate on the 2011-12 Scottish Budget on 9 February 2011 that I intend to allocate an additional £5 million to help smooth the impact of the redistribution of the former ring-fenced Supporting People funding within the distribution formula as a result of updating the needs-based indicators for 2011-12. I have also invited COSLA to match that amount. The distribution of these extra funds has still to be agreed but I fully expect that both Argyll and Bute and West Dunbartonshire Councils will receive additional allocations of money given that they were the two local authorities that lost out most, proportionately, from the updating of the indicators. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246076,"EventID":"S3W-39564","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to monitor the implementation of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to monitor the implementation of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","AnswerText":"The Act states that each local authority is required to publish an annual report on its performance of its functions in relation to the Act. The first reports cover the period 1 October 2009 to 31 March 2010 and are due to be published by 30 June 2011. The Act also requires the Scottish Government to publish a report on the local authorities. That report is due to be laid before the Parliament by 30 September 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246077,"EventID":"S3W-39565","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what financial allocation has been made to each local authority to assist with the implementation of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what financial allocation has been made to each local authority to assist with the implementation of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","AnswerText":"During parliamentary passage of the then Bill, no additional funding was deemed necessary for implementation of the Disabled Persons'' Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246078,"EventID":"S3W-39566","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which local authorities have fully implemented the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which local authorities have fully implemented the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","AnswerText":"It is the responsibility of each local authority to implement the Act. The Act states that each local authority is required to publish an annual report on its performance of its functions in relation to the Act. The first reports cover the period 1 October 2009 to 31 March 2010 and are due to be published by 30 June 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246079,"EventID":"S3W-39567","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide a report to the Parliament on the progress made by local authorities in implementing the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide a report to the Parliament on the progress made by local authorities in implementing the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.","AnswerText":"As set out in the Act, the Scottish Government will lay a report before the Parliament on the performance of local authorities in relation to the Act by 30 September 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246080,"EventID":"S3W-39568","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the geographical area defined as Scottish territorial waters is in relation to offshore wind farm construction.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the geographical area defined as Scottish territorial waters is in relation to offshore wind farm construction.","AnswerText":"The area defined as Scottish territorial waters extends out to 12 nautical miles from the coastal baseline. In addition, Scottish Ministers have the function of granting consents under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 for offshore wind farms both in the territorial sea adjacent to Scotland and in the sea area identified in the Schedule to the Renewable Energy Zone (Designation of Area) (Scottish Ministers) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/3153). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246081,"EventID":"S3W-39569","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2049,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initial resources are being made available to NHS boards and Special Health Boards in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what initial resources are being made available to NHS boards and Special Health Boards in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"NHS boards revenue resource funding will increase overall by 3.2% in 2011-12. Special Health Boards receive an general uplift of 1%; a differential efficiency target has been set for Special Health Boards services not delivering direct patient care to improve efficiency and support funding front-line services. Details of NHS boards and Special Health Boards initial revenue resource allocations for 2011-12 are as follows: | | Initial Allocation 2011-12 £ million | Uplift 2011-12 % | | NHS Ayrshire and Arran | 574.7 | 2.8% | | NHS Borders | 167.3 | 2.9% | | NHS Dumfries and Galloway | 241.7 | 2.9% | | NHS Fife | 507.1 | 3.1% | | NHS Forth Valley | 402.8 | 3.2% | | NHS Grampian | 691.1 | 3.8% | | NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 1,895.6 | 2.7% | | NHS Highland | 484.8 | 3.0% | | NHS Lanarkshire | 815.6 | 3.2% | | NHS Lothian | 1,054.4 | 4.2% | | NHS Orkney | 31.5 | 3.0% | | NHS Shetland | 36.7 | 2.9% | | NHS Tayside | 596.4 | 2.9% | | NHS Western Isles | 57.7 | 2.7% | | Total NHS Boards | 7,557.4 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246082,"EventID":"S3W-39570","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will distribute the 25,000 modern apprenticeship places by sector.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will distribute the 25,000 modern apprenticeship places by sector.","AnswerText":"The breakdown of modern apprenticeships by age and by sector for 2011-12 will be considered by Skills Development Scotland in line with industry and economic needs, as part of Skills Development Scotland''s ongoing procurement processes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246083,"EventID":"S3W-39571","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-10T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the extra 8,500 modern apprenticeship places will be made available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the extra 8,500 modern apprenticeship places will be made available.","AnswerText":"Following the budget we are discussing with Skills Development Scotland how to maximise the benefit of the additional modern apprenticeship places. We are keen to ensure that all 25,000 places are made available as soon as possible and in line with procurement guidelines for Skills Development Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246084,"EventID":"S3W-39572","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the cancer drugs fund proposed for England will produce an imbalance in equality of access to cancer drugs between Scotland and England and, if ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the cancer drugs fund proposed for England will produce an imbalance in equality of access to cancer drugs between Scotland and England and, if so, what action it will take.","AnswerText":"Decisions regarding the introduction of new medicines are taken by each of the UK countries through their own appraisal arrangements in line with established national priorities. Scotland''s independent and robust arrangements for the appraisal of newly licensed medicines focus on patients in Scotland having equitable access to clinically and cost-effective medicines to treat all conditions, not just those to treat cancer. This seeks to maintain a focus on equity across all conditions and throughout all parts of Scotland. The Scottish Government will give due consideration to the outcome of the Department of Health''s consultation on the Cancer Drugs Fund when further information becomes available. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246085,"EventID":"S3W-39573","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to increase the transparency of the Scottish Medicines Consortium’s decision-making process for ultra-orphan medicines and the amount of information mad","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to increase the transparency of the Scottish Medicines Consortium’s decision-making process for ultra-orphan medicines and the amount of information made available when modifiers have been used as part of its appraisal process.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) operates independently from the Scottish Government. Details about the nature of the SMC processes are available at: http://www.scottishmedicines.org.uk. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246086,"EventID":"S3W-39574","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1845,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the Scottish Medicines Consortium incorporates its modifiers into the health-economic case for ultra-orphan medicines and what importance it gives these in the final ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the Scottish Medicines Consortium incorporates its modifiers into the health-economic case for ultra-orphan medicines and what importance it gives these in the final decision-making process.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) operates independently from the Scottish Government. Details about the nature of the SMC processes are available at: http://www.scottishmedicines.org.uk ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246087,"EventID":"S3W-39575","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it awarded the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it awarded the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"In June 2008, the Registrar General awarded a contract for work on the 2011 census which included certain IT services and other services such as the printing of the questionnaires. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246088,"EventID":"S3W-39576","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the value was of the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the value was of the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"The value of the contract awarded in June 2008 for back-office services (including printing the questionnaires and other material necessary for the census; providing a website to allow the questionnaire to be completed online and to offer general information and help on the census; the capture of the data on the paper questionnaires and the coding of responses from all questionnaires) was £18.6 million. It is not possible separately to identify the IT work involved in the contract. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246089,"EventID":"S3W-39577","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive who was awarded the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive who was awarded the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"The main contract for back office services for the 2011 Census, including certain IT services, was awarded in June 2009 to CACI (UK) Ltd. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246090,"EventID":"S3W-39578","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it sought regarding the activities of CACI Ltd before awarding it a contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it sought regarding the activities of CACI Ltd before awarding it a contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"As part of the procurement process, the Registrar General obtained references about previous contracts that CACI (UK) Ltd had completed, as assurance of the company''s capability to deliver the required services. The main reference related to Ireland, because CACI (UK) Ltd had provided support services for the two previous Irish censuses. The Registrar General also obtained copies of recent published accounts for CACI (UK) Ltd to ensure its financial stability, as well as details of its insurance cover and accreditations, and carried out other research on the status and history of the company. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246091,"EventID":"S3W-39579","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has concerns regarding CACI Ltd being a wholly owned subsidiary of CACI International.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has concerns regarding CACI Ltd being a wholly owned subsidiary of CACI International.","AnswerText":"The contract to help with the Scottish census is with CACI (UK) Ltd. It was awarded under EU procurement rules which do not allow bidders to be excluded because they are subsidiaries of US companies. But the Registrar General put in place contractual precautions described in paragraph 6.8 of Scotland''s Census 2011, laid before the Parliament in December 2008, to ensure that personal information collected in the census could not leave Scotland and that the US Patriot Act could not catch that information. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246092,"EventID":"S3W-39580","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is regarding information on the Scotland Against Criminalising Communities website alleging that CACI International Inc., the parent company of CACI Ltd","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is regarding information on the Scotland Against Criminalising Communities website alleging that CACI International Inc., the parent company of CACI Ltd, is a US-based defence contractor that was contracted to provide interrogation services for the US army at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq.","AnswerText":"Interrogation of prisoners is a legal activity, but the website alleges that a different subsidiary of CACI International, working for the US Government in Iraq, was involved in human rights abuses at Abu Ghraib. The company vehemently denies these allegations and strongly deplores any form of abuse of human rights. The allegations of involvement in torture of inmates at Abu Ghraib have never been proved. Nor has the US Government, which court-martialled some of its troops over abuses at Abu Ghraib, taken any action against CACI or its subsidiary. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246093,"EventID":"S3W-39581","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have written to it raising concerns about CACI Ltd being contracted to provide IT work for the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have written to it raising concerns about CACI Ltd being contracted to provide IT work for the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"52. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246094,"EventID":"S3W-39582","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will review the awarding of the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will review the awarding of the contract for IT work on the 2011 Census.","AnswerText":"A full evaluation of the Census programme, including the awarding of the contract which includes IT support, will take place following the completion of the Census. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246095,"EventID":"S3W-39583","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it has issued to NHS boards regarding the (a) criteria, (b) recording and (c) use of the Health Plan Indicator for children under five.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it has issued to NHS boards regarding the (a) criteria, (b) recording and (c) use of the Health Plan Indicator for children under five.","AnswerText":"Guidance regarding the Health Plan Indicator (HPI) was contained in A New Look at Hall 4, The Early Years, Good Health for Every Child, launched on 18 January 2011. The criteria for allocation of the HPI should be based on the assessed need of the individual child and family. The Health Plan Indicator should continue to be recorded on the Child Health Surveillance Programme “ Pre-school (CHSP-PS) system. Work is ongoing to ensure this system supports practitioners in light of the changes. The HPI should relate to the assessed needs of the child and family. The guidance makes clear the need for flexibility in the allocation of the HPI as well as the need to revisit the assessment as child and/or family circumstances change. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246096,"EventID":"S3W-39584","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what health and development checks will be undertaken in the proposed 24 to 30 month review under the universal child health surveillance programme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what health and development checks will be undertaken in the proposed 24 to 30 month review under the universal child health surveillance programme.","AnswerText":"As a minimum, the 24 to 30 month review should cover: speech, language and communication; personal, social and emotional development (including behavioural issues); nutrition, growth and weight; immunisations; parental concerns and issues; vision, hearing and oral health, and physical activity and play. The review may be expanded, depending on child and family circumstances, and professional concerns. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246097,"EventID":"S3W-39585","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what health professional will undertake the proposed health and development check for children between 24 and 30 months under the universal child health surveillance prog","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what health professional will undertake the proposed health and development check for children between 24 and 30 months under the universal child health surveillance programme.","AnswerText":"The review needs to be flexible to meet the needs of the child and family. Although it is anticipated that a registered Public Health Nurse “ Health Visitor will lead the review process, it is for NHS boards to decide locally how the reviews can be carried out most effectively depending on the individual child and family circumstances, and who the most appropriate health professional is to carry out that review. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246098,"EventID":"S3W-39586","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2117,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":47,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it has provided since May 2007 to supported employment providers to enable them to bid for public contracts.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what advice it has provided since May 2007 to supported employment providers to enable them to bid for public contracts.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is taking action to remove barriers which prevent supported businesses, along with social enterprises and other third sector organisations, from accessing the public sector market. This includes (as part of general support for small and medium-sized enterprises and enterprising third sector organisations) giving supported businesses the guidance, training and skills they need to submit competitive bids for public sector business. The Enterprising Third Sector Action Plan, published in June 2008, includes the provision of a wide range of support to help third sector and supported businesses to prepare competitive bids for public sector contracts. Since then, three phases of Tender Writing Training have occurred which have to date been attended by around 600 delegates from third sector groups. This has included a number of representatives from four supported businesses attending a variety of courses. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246099,"EventID":"S3W-39587","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2117,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":47,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what training it has provided since May 2007 to supported employment providers to enable them to bid for public contracts.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what training it has provided since May 2007 to supported employment providers to enable them to bid for public contracts.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39586 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246100,"EventID":"S3W-39588","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2117,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":47,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public contracts have been awarded to supported employment providers since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public contracts have been awarded to supported employment providers since May 2007.","AnswerText":"The government does not currently hold information on public sector contracts with supported businesses or contracts awarded under Article 19. Analysis of procurement spend data for 2008-09 shows that the public sector spent £26.4 million with 23 of the 24 Scotland based Supported Businesses in that year. The Scottish Government currently uses Capability St Judes to provide laundry services to Marine Scotland in Aberdeen. Our design and print contractor has supported businesses in their roster of sub-contractors. At January 2011, we are aware of three other reserved contracts put in place by other Scottish public sector organisations: Highlands and Islands Council “ CCTV Services North Lanarkshire Council “ Bunk Beds The State Hospital Carstairs “ Curtains. The Public Procurement Reform Programme is taking steps to encourage public sector buyers to place contracts with supported businesses when appropriate. For example: The British Association of Supported Employment (BASE), in partnership with the Scottish Government, published a brochure Supported Businesses in Scotland, which provides guidance to buyers on the use of Article 19 (which allows public buyers to reserve participation in tendering for contracts to Supported Businesses) and has details of the 24 Supported Businesses based in Scotland along with the products and services they can provide. Supported Businesses exhibited at the National Procurement Conference held at the SECC in October 2010 We are working collaboratively with supported business. So far this year, two meetings have been held to identify the needs of Scottish supported businesses and explore what more government could do. We have added a new facility to Public Contracts Scotland which automatically alerts buyers when a supported business can fulfil the requirements of their planned contract, and offers them the facility to reserve the contract under Article 19. This facility will also capture information on the number of contracts being awarded to third sector organisations and supported businesses in future. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246101,"EventID":"S3W-39589","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2117,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":47,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public contracts have been awarded to supported employment providers under Article 19 of the European Union Procurement Directive, broken down by (a) awarding body a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what public contracts have been awarded to supported employment providers under Article 19 of the European Union Procurement Directive, broken down by (a) awarding body and (b) date.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39588 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246102,"EventID":"S3W-39590","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2049,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria are treated with eculizumab.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria are treated with eculizumab.","AnswerText":"Seven Scottish patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria are currently treated with eculizumab through the UK designated specialist service, which provides an outreach clinic in Monklands Hospital, Lanarkshire. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246103,"EventID":"S3W-39591","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2049,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards provide funding for eculizumab for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive which NHS boards provide funding for eculizumab for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria.","AnswerText":"Eculizumab is not recommended by the Scottish Medicines Consortium for use within NHSScotland. As a result, each individual case needs to be considered by the host NHS board according to the specific needs of each individual patient. Information is available for Scottish patients in the care of the UK designated specialist service at the outreach clinic in Monklands Hospital, Lanarkshire. At present, eculizumab has been approved for the treatment of individual patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria in five areas - NHS Lanarkshire, NHS Forth Valley, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and NHS Lothian. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246104,"EventID":"S3W-39592","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the chief executive of Transport Scotland received (a) advice or (b) recommendations from members of the Infrastructure Investment Group in relation to the Edinbu","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the chief executive of Transport Scotland received (a) advice or (b) recommendations from members of the Infrastructure Investment Group in relation to the Edinburgh trams project and, if so, what advice or recommendations.","AnswerText":"The Infrastructure Investment Group had no involvement with the Edinburgh trams project. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246105,"EventID":"S3W-39593","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group had any involvement with the Edinburgh trams project and, if so, how it (a) scrutinised and (b) monitored the project and what","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group had any involvement with the Edinburgh trams project and, if so, how it (a) scrutinised and (b) monitored the project and what conclusions it reached regarding the management of the project.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39592 on 25 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246106,"EventID":"S3W-39594","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group made recommendations to the (a) Scottish Government or (b) City of Edinburgh Council in relation to the Edinburgh trams projec","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group made recommendations to the (a) Scottish Government or (b) City of Edinburgh Council in relation to the Edinburgh trams project and, if so, what recommendations.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39592 on 25 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246107,"EventID":"S3W-39595","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group provided advice to the (a) Scottish Government or (b) the City of Edinburgh Council in relation to the Edinburgh trams project","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group provided advice to the (a) Scottish Government or (b) the City of Edinburgh Council in relation to the Edinburgh trams project and, if so, what advice.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39592 on 25 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. \r\n","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246108,"EventID":"S3W-39596","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group provided any management arrangements to ensure an effective investment strategy for the Edinburgh trams project.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Infrastructure Investment Group provided any management arrangements to ensure an effective investment strategy for the Edinburgh trams project.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39592 on 25 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246109,"EventID":"S3W-39597","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recommendations the Infrastructure Investment Group made to (a) the Permanent Secretary of the Scottish Executive, (b) its Strategic Board and (c) the Cabinet Secret","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what recommendations the Infrastructure Investment Group made to (a) the Permanent Secretary of the Scottish Executive, (b) its Strategic Board and (c) the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Infrastructure Investment Group oversaw the recent improvements to the Scottish Government''s infrastructure investment governance structure, specifically the establishment of the Infrastructure Investment Board, helping meet the recommendations of the Public Audit Committee and Audit Scotland to strengthen governance of capital investment. Prior to implementing these changes, recommendations for approval were made to both (a) the Permanent Secretary and (c) me. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246110,"EventID":"S3W-39598","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide examples of the Infrastructure Investment Group improving co-ordination of investment activity in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will provide examples of the Infrastructure Investment Group improving co-ordination of investment activity in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Infrastructure Investment Group played an important role in improving co-ordination of investment activity during 2010. Specific examples included: Leading on the review of governance of the Scottish Government''s capital programme, which led to the establishment of both the Infrastructure Investment Board to take on an executive role in infrastructure governance and the creation of the Infrastructure Projects Database which provides financial, contractual and procurement details of capital projects across the Scottish Government and NHS boards; Co-ordinating European Investment Bank activities across the Scottish Government; Supporting the work of the 2010 Spending Review; and Examining opportunities for synergies between portfolios. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246111,"EventID":"S3W-39599","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what major capital projects the Infrastructure Investment Group scrutinised in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what major capital projects the Infrastructure Investment Group scrutinised in 2010.","AnswerText":"During the course of 2010 the Infrastructure Investment Group (IIG) examined the following key infrastructure investment programmes: Schools for the Future School Building programme; Hub; Health capital programme; and Offshore renewable energy requirements. Members also used the opportunity to provide the group with updates on capital investment in their respective portfolios, including transport, prisons and further and higher education. The IIG also approved the establishment of the Infrastructure Projects Database, which provides financial, contractual and procurement details of around 100 capital projects across the Scottish Government and NHS Boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246112,"EventID":"S3W-39600","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what investment funds the Infrastructure Investment Group managed strategically across the Scottish Executive and how it ensured that variances from planned expenditure w","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what investment funds the Infrastructure Investment Group managed strategically across the Scottish Executive and how it ensured that variances from planned expenditure were kept to a minimum in 2010.","AnswerText":"While the management of investment funds are the responsibility of individual portfolios under the oversight of DG Finance, the Infrastructure Investment Group provided a forum for the strategic consideration of the Scottish Government''s overall capital budget. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246113,"EventID":"S3W-39602","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what strategic issues relating to infrastructure investment the Infrastructure Investment Group considered in 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what strategic issues relating to infrastructure investment the Infrastructure Investment Group considered in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Infrastructure Investment Group considered a number of strategic issues during 2010. Specific examples included: The review of governance of the Scottish Government''s capital programme, following the recommendations of the Public Audit Committee and Audit Scotland; Audit Scotland follow-up review of major capital projects; Implications for public spending from the UK Government''s 2010 budget announcement; The Scottish Government''s 2010 Spending Review; Delivery of Scottish Government infrastructure investment programmes, including the Schools for the Futures school building programme and hub initiative; Future strategic infrastructure options, including the health capital programme and offshore renewable energy infrastructure; and Scottish Government interaction with the European Investment Bank. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246114,"EventID":"S3W-39603","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its officials had discussions with City of Edinburgh Council officials in relation to the Craigmillar Settlement in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its officials had discussions with City of Edinburgh Council officials in relation to the Craigmillar Settlement in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010.","AnswerText":"There were no such discussions. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246115,"EventID":"S3W-39604","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in his work for the Scottish Government, the senior policy officer in the City of Edinburgh Council’s equalities unit reports to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Sco","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether, in his work for the Scottish Government, the senior policy officer in the City of Edinburgh Council’s equalities unit reports to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Scottish Government Resilience.","AnswerText":"No. In his work for the Scottish Government, the Equalities Manager for the City of Edinburgh Council does not report to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Scottish Resilience. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246116,"EventID":"S3W-39605","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many events it provided with grant funding in 2010, broken down by (a) level of grant, (b) name of event and (c) description of event.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many events it provided with grant funding in 2010, broken down by (a) level of grant, (b) name of event and (c) description of event.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to encouraging a sense of national identity and to promoting Scotland''s relations and interests in many sectors. Both are vital if Scotland is to prosper and if we are to achieve our goal of sustainable economic growth. Supporting and promoting events at home and abroad with a Scottish theme or element is an integral part of this process. To collate and quantify the number and type of events with a Scottish theme or element, organised across the whole of the Scottish Government, could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246117,"EventID":"S3W-39606","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-11T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide a substantive answer to question S3W-38732, which received a holding reply on 25 January 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide a substantive answer to question S3W-38732, which received a holding reply on 25 January 2011.","AnswerText":"This question was answered on 17 February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246118,"EventID":"S3W-39607","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what 10 cancers were most commonly diagnosed in men in NHS Tayside in the last year for which information is available, broken down by the number of men affected and expr","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what 10 cancers were most commonly diagnosed in men in NHS Tayside in the last year for which information is available, broken down by the number of men affected and expressed as a percentage of people diagnosed with cancer in NHS Tayside, and what the corresponding figures were for 1998.","AnswerText":"Data on newly diagnosed cancers in Scotland are recorded on the Scottish Cancer Registry. The most recent calendar year of data currently available is 2008. Details of the 10 most commonly diagnosed cancers in men, broken down by the number affected and expressed as a percentage of the people diagnosed with cancer in NHS Tayside, and what the corresponding figures were for 1998 is available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52502). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246119,"EventID":"S3W-39608","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what 10 cancers were most commonly diagnosed in women in NHS Tayside in the last year for which information is available, broken down by the number of women affected and ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what 10 cancers were most commonly diagnosed in women in NHS Tayside in the last year for which information is available, broken down by the number of women affected and expressed as a percentage of people diagnosed with cancer in NHS Tayside, and what the corresponding figures were for 1998.","AnswerText":"Data on newly diagnosed cancers in Scotland are recorded on the Scottish Cancer Registry. The most recent calendar year of data currently available is 2008. Details of the 10 most commonly diagnosed cancers in women, broken down by the number affected and expressed as a percentage of the people diagnosed with cancer in NHS Tayside, and what the corresponding figures were for 1998 is available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52503). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246120,"EventID":"S3W-39609","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of children was exclusively breastfed at six to eight weeks in each community health partnership (CHP) area in the last year for which information is avai","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what percentage of children was exclusively breastfed at six to eight weeks in each community health partnership (CHP) area in the last year for which information is available and what the 2010-11 HEAT target is for such percentage for the NHS board in which the CHP is located.","AnswerText":"Exclusive breastfeeding rates at the six to eight week review by CHP area are published on the ISD Scotland website at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/1914.html. The latest available statistics are for children born in financial year 2009-10. Data is not available for NHS Grampian and NHS Orkney and the constituent CHP areas as these Boards had not implemented the Child Health Pre-School system, from which these statistics are derived, for the time period reported. The individual NHS board HEAT targets for the percentage of children exclusively breastfed at six to eight weeks are published on the Scotland Performs website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/About/scotPerforms/partnerstories/NHSScotlandperformance/breastfeeding. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246121,"EventID":"S3W-39610","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on (a) how many people claimed jobseeker’s allowance and (b) unemployment rates in Dundee in December 2010, broken down by (i) gender and (ii) cen","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what information it has on (a) how many people claimed jobseeker’s allowance and (b) unemployment rates in Dundee in December 2010, broken down by (i) gender and (ii) census area statistics ward.","AnswerText":"Claimant Counts and rates are not yet available for the new wards as used in the 2007 Scottish Parliamentary Elections. However, data is available for the 2003 CAS Wards. Table 1 contain claimant counts and rates for each ward within Dundee City council, broken down by gender for December 2010. Table 1: JSA Claimant count unemployment numbers and rate1 for wards2 in Dundee City Council, December 2010: | Area | Male | Female | Total Claimants | | Claimant Count | Claimant Count Rate(%) | Claimant Count | Claimant Count Rate(%) | Claimant Count | Claimant Count Rate(%) | | Ninewells | 123 | 7.9 | 39 | 2.2 | 162 | 4.9 | | Camperdown | 167 | 10.9 | 69 | 3.9 | 236 | 7.2 | | Balgay | 89 | 5.8 | 32 | 2.0 | 121 | 3.8 | | Lochee West | 181 | 14.5 | 64 | 4.6 | 245 | 9.2 | | Riverside | 40 | 2.2 | 15 | 0.8 | 55 | 1.5 | | Brackens | 127 | 7.5 | 39 | 2.0 | 166 | 4.6 | | Ardler | 118 | 11.0 | 47 | 4.1 | 165 | 7.4 | | Balgowan | 144 | 8.8 | 52 | 2.8 | JSA (Jobseeker''s Allowance) Claimant Count by age group for Dundee City Council, January 2011 | Age-Group | Total | | Aged 19 and under | 520 | | Aged 20-24 | 1,060 | | Aged 25-29 | 815 | | Aged 30-34 | 580 | | Aged 35-39 | 520 | | Aged 40-44 | 555 | | Aged 45-49 | 510 | | Aged 50-54 | 425 | | Aged 55-59 | 305 | | Aged 60 and over | 50 | | All Claimants | 5,340 | Source: Office for National Statistics. Notes: 1. Data is rounded to nearest five. 2. Data is not seasonally adjusted. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246123,"EventID":"S3W-39612","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the latest claimant count is in Dundee for people claiming for up to six months.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the latest claimant count is in Dundee for people claiming for up to six months.","AnswerText":"The claimant count is a measure of those claiming unemployment related benefits in Scotland. The latest data is for January 2011. This shows that there were 3,665 people on the claimant count for Dundee City local authority, who have been claiming for up to six months. Source: Office for National Statistics. Notes: 1. Data is rounded to nearest five. 2. Data is not seasonally adjusted. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246124,"EventID":"S3W-39613","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2876,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many stop and search procedures have been carried out in each financial year since 1999, broken down by police board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many stop and search procedures have been carried out in each financial year since 1999, broken down by police board.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. The responsibility for carrying out and recording stop and search procedures is a matter for individual chief constables. Strathclyde Police records and publishes figures from 1 April 2004, as part of the Chief Constable''s Annual Report. An extract of the published figures on searches is as follows. | Year | Total Searches | Positive Searches | Percentage Positive | | 2004-05 | 87,190 | 7,513 | 8.6 | | 2005-06 | 91,336 | 6,794 | 7.4 | | 2006-07 | 133,806 | 9,603 | 7.2 | | 2007-08 | 162,914 | 11,385 | 7.0 | | 2008-09 | 237,845 | 15,433 | 6.5 | | 2009-10 | 321,302 | 23,534 | 7.3 | Source: Strathclyde Police - Chief Constable''s Annual Report 2009-10 - Statistical Supplement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246125,"EventID":"S3W-39614","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2876,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding has been committed to tackling knife crime in each financial year since 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much funding has been committed to tackling knife crime in each financial year since 1999.","AnswerText":"Since 1999, there has been significant levels of investment from many different agencies in order to tackle violence, including knife crime, in Scotland. The Scottish Government works with the national police-led Violence Reduction Unit, the Association of Chief Police Officers, local Community Safety Partnerships, education, social work and other partners to tackle violence in Scotland. A broad range of Scottish Government activities work together to address violent behaviour and offending through various government policy areas such as policing, alcohol, early years, youth justice. Due to the fact that funding emanates from so many different sources it is impossible to disaggregate total expenditure on the issue of knife crime as a whole. The Scottish Government is doing more than ever to tackle knife crime and has already committed a record £500,000 investment in it''s award-winning No Knives Better Lives campaign between April 2009 and March 2011, with a further £500,000 recently announced for 2011-12; record funding of £1.6 million in the national Violence Reduction Unit over two years to tackle gang violence, and over £30 million in diversionary activities for young people through the CashBack for Communities campaign. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246126,"EventID":"S3W-39615","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3901,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":53,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many business properties currently receive support from the Small Business Bonus Scheme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many business properties currently receive support from the Small Business Bonus Scheme.","AnswerText":"Official statistics showing take-up of the Small Business Bonus Scheme will be published later in 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246127,"EventID":"S3W-39616","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of demand there is for modern apprenticeship places for 2011-12, also broken down by category.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of demand there is for modern apprenticeship places for 2011-12, also broken down by category.","AnswerText":"Skills Development Scotland is currently undertaking a procurement exercise for modern apprenticeship places. I will ask the Chief Executive of Skills Development Scotland to write to you with the information you have requested once this exercise is complete. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246128,"EventID":"S3W-39617","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what budget has been allocated for the 25,000 modern apprenticeship places for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what budget has been allocated for the 25,000 modern apprenticeship places for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"In the budget in February, we announced that we will invest a further £11.5 million to create 25,000 modern apprenticeship places. Skills Development Scotland will detail plans for the delivery of the 25,000 modern apprenticeships in its operating plan for 2011-12. This is due to be published later this month. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246129,"EventID":"S3W-39618","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for modern apprenticeship places there have been for 2011-12 for people aged (a) 16 to 19 and (b) 20 and over.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many applications for modern apprenticeship places there have been for 2011-12 for people aged (a) 16 to 19 and (b) 20 and over.","AnswerText":"Skills Development Scotland is currently undertaking a procurement exercise for modern apprenticeship places. I will ask the Chief Executive of Skills Development Scotland to write to you with the information you have requested once this exercise is complete. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246130,"EventID":"S3W-39619","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many flexible training opportunities have been funded through the European Social Fund in 2010-11; how many were applied for, and how many people have completed their","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many flexible training opportunities have been funded through the European Social Fund in 2010-11; how many were applied for, and how many people have completed their training.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information centrally. I will ask the Chief Executive of Skills Development Scotland to write to the member with the information requested. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246131,"EventID":"S3W-39620","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been applied for from the European Social Fund to pay for flexible training places for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much has been applied for from the European Social Fund to pay for flexible training places for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government does not hold this information centrally. I will ask the Chief Executive of Skills Development Scotland to write to the member with the information requested. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246132,"EventID":"S3W-39621","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4074,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":73,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the level of demand is for flexible training opportunities for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the level of demand is for flexible training opportunities for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"Flexible training opportunities were announced last year to meet the needs of small businesses. Skills Development Scotland has advised us that as they have promoted the scheme interest and uptake has increased. We have subsequently increased the number of places next year from 5,000 to 7,000 to ensure that we can meet the expected demand from business. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246133,"EventID":"S3W-39623","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can give assurances that MS specialist nurse posts will be protected under the NHS budget settlement for 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it can give assurances that MS specialist nurse posts will be protected under the NHS budget settlement for 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is fully committed to protecting the health budget by passing on Barnett consequentials in full from the UK settlement. However, it is for NHS boards to determine their workforce requirements, including specialist nurses, based on the clinical needs of the population and service developments in their area. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246134,"EventID":"S3W-39624","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will update the Local Alcohol Profiles produced in 2004-05 in order to assist public health specialists on licensing boards in determining the case for reduced","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will update the Local Alcohol Profiles produced in 2004-05 in order to assist public health specialists on licensing boards in determining the case for reduced availability of alcohol on the grounds of public health interest.","AnswerText":"Local Alcohol Profiles were produced by ISD in both 2004 and 2006. These were replaced with a Local Drug and Alcohol Information publication which was first published in 2008 and subsequently in 2010. This publication incorporated information previously included in the Local Alcohol Profiles and Corporate Action Plan Information Packs and provides links to relevant local level information and also additional analysis of some data at local level. Additionally, ISD publishes Alcohol Statistics Scotland biennially, with the most recent version being published in February 2011. This publication provides a wide range of statistics on alcohol with information shown at a local level where possible. All alcohol-related publications are available at http://www.alcoholinformation.isdscotland.org/alcohol_misuse/1407.html. ISD Substance Misuse Programme is currently consulting with stakeholders to seek views on existing products and services - including frequency, format and content of publications - and will be producing an action plan to take forward any identified changes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246135,"EventID":"S3W-39625","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether any licensing board has refused (a) a licence, (b) a renewal of a licence or (c) an extension of floor space sought as part of extending a licence since the Licen","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether any licensing board has refused (a) a licence, (b) a renewal of a licence or (c) an extension of floor space sought as part of extending a licence since the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 came into force.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246136,"EventID":"S3W-39626","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to support councillors facing the threat of legal action when proposing to curtail availability of alcohol on the grounds of public health interes","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to support councillors facing the threat of legal action when proposing to curtail availability of alcohol on the grounds of public health interest.","AnswerText":"The public health objective is still a new concept and the government is encouraging those with an interest in public health to discuss with licensing boards what information they can provide but also enter into a dialogue over how such evidence should be presented to enable licensing board decisions to be made from an informed and evidenced standpoint. Licensing board decisions made on the grounds of protecting and improving public health are no more prone to appeal than those based on preventing crime and disorder. To minimise such risks licensing boards must ensure that the necessary decision making procedures are followed and that decisions are consistent with the licensing board''s policy statement or reflect the views presented at a board hearing. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246137,"EventID":"S3W-39627","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met stakeholders to discuss the social responsibility levy on alcohol; which stakeholders attended, and what the outcome was.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it last met stakeholders to discuss the social responsibility levy on alcohol; which stakeholders attended, and what the outcome was.","AnswerText":"The Social Responsibility Levy Working Group last met on 24 June 2010. Representatives of the Scottish Retail Consortium, individual retailers and producers, Scottish Grocers Federation, Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Scottish Beer and Pub Association and BII attended. Apologies were received from other bodies. Further meetings with individual stakeholders were held subsequently. These meetings informed the proposals included in the Alcohol etc (Scotland) Act 2010 and the current consultation issued on 8 November 2010 entitled, Initial Consultation on Social Responsibility Levy. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246138,"EventID":"S3W-39628","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2674,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each police board has spent on fuel in each financial year since 2001 and how much it expects to spend in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each police board has spent on fuel in each financial year since 2001 and how much it expects to spend in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The spend by each police board from 2007-08 to 2009-10 with an estimate of costs for 2010-11 and 2011-12 is set out in the following table. Information prior to 2007 is not held electronically by individual police boards. | Transport Fuel | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 (estimate) | 2011-12 (preliminary estimate) | | £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | | Central | 374 | 417 | 417 | 440 | 382 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 190 | 214 | 207 | 208 | 306 | | Fife | 398 | 523 | 476 | 484 | 605 | | Grampian | 649 | 731 | 705 | 709 | 819 | | Lothian and Borders | 1,180 | 1,328 | 1,281 | 1,289 | 1,285 | | Northern | 582 | 627 | 608 | 600 | 604 | | Strathclyde | 2,615 | 2,905 | 2,804 | | Scoring Criteria | Evaluation Criteria | | 1. Description of overall bid | Should outline the number and nature of projects | | 2. Meets National Outcomes | Local Action Group should outline why it believes the activity will meet the National Outcomes | | 3 Contribution to LEADER outcomes | Local Action Group should outline contribution to local outcomes, what changes it wants to see as a result of the funding and any innovative element | | 4 Evaluation | Does the bid show how project will be evaluated/what indicators will be used to measure outcome | | 5 Area and population covered | Details of area and population covered by bid | | 6 Needs assessment | Is current area broadband status outlined, how will provision be enhanced. This should include any liaison with wider public bodies | | 7. Any displacement effect | Are there pre-existing schemes or others planned -how will this bid add value | | 8. Technical input to the bid | Assessment of the technical quality of the bid | | 9. Creative bid “ technology | Have innovative technological solutions for LEADER area been considered | | 10. Delivery mechanism and timescale | Local Action Group should describe the projects to be delivered and in what timescale. To be as specific as possible about who will complete work, timescale and evidence from delivery agents to support. | | 11. Impact on jobs and businesses in area | Outline of jobs created or impact on economic development if successful | | 12 Additional supporting information | The extent to which effort made to back up the bid and assess reasonableness of costs including any procurement issue | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246140,"EventID":"S3W-39630","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the number of potential end users was considered when awarding funding from the Broadband Challenge Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the number of potential end users was considered when awarding funding from the Broadband Challenge Fund.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39629 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246141,"EventID":"S3W-39631","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether cost-per-user was a factor in deciding to award funding from the Broadband Challenge Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether cost-per-user was a factor in deciding to award funding from the Broadband Challenge Fund.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39629 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246142,"EventID":"S3W-39632","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to hold a public inquiry into the proposed incinerator at Invergordon and, if so, when it will be held.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether there are plans to hold a public inquiry into the proposed incinerator at Invergordon and, if so, when it will be held.","AnswerText":"The reporter appointed to determine this appeal, Mr Richard Dent, is currently considering what further information he requires to determine this appeal, who is best placed to provide this and by what method this should be obtained (further written submissions, a hearing or inquiry sessions). ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246143,"EventID":"S3W-39633","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive who will make the final decision on the application for an incinerator at Invergordon if a public inquiry is held.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive who will make the final decision on the application for an incinerator at Invergordon if a public inquiry is held.","AnswerText":"The reporter, Mr Richard Dent, has been appointed by Scottish ministers to make the final decision on this appeal. He is currently examining all the information that has been submitted to decide how the appeal should proceed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246144,"EventID":"S3W-39634","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a reporter other than the one who presided over the last inquiry will be appointed if a public inquiry is held into the proposed incinerator at Invergordon.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a reporter other than the one who presided over the last inquiry will be appointed if a public inquiry is held into the proposed incinerator at Invergordon.","AnswerText":"A new reporter has been appointed to consider this case. Mr Richard Dent, the reporter, is currently examining all the information that has been submitted to decide how the appeal should proceed. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246145,"EventID":"S3W-39635","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2167,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has concerns regarding any implications for (a) jobs and (b) the continuation of college campuses in the Highlands and Islands arising from the budget for 2011","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has concerns regarding any implications for (a) jobs and (b) the continuation of college campuses in the Highlands and Islands arising from the budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The difficult decisions colleges, including those serving the Highlands and Islands, are now being obliged to take to balance their own budgets for next year derive directly from Westminster''s cut of £1.3 billion in the Scottish block grant. We have asked colleges to proceed in a way that minimises impact on the learner. We have also written to the principal of every college in Scotland seeking an assurance that the college will seek to avoid compulsory redundancies. Decisions on how and where courses are delivered are a matter entirely for the college concerned. However, ministers were greatly encouraged that the college sector has agreed to maintain in 2011-12 the number of core student places. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Angela Constance","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246146,"EventID":"S3W-39636","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the remit is of the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the remit is of the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","AnswerText":"The general purpose of the review will be to determine the ongoing need for NHS continuing care provision in the west of Glasgow, and to carefully consider the service options for providing this care, including maintaining the service currently provided by St Margaret''s of Scotland Hospice. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246147,"EventID":"S3W-39637","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011 will be conducted.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011 will be conducted.","AnswerText":"I expect all health boards to conduct robust NHS service reviews which are sensitive to local needs and priorities whilst being consistent with national policies, guidelines and frameworks. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246148,"EventID":"S3W-39638","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive who will be invited to participate in the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive who will be invited to participate in the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39637 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246149,"EventID":"S3W-39639","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the chairperson or chief executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde last met representatives of St Margaret’s of Scotland Hospice.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the chairperson or chief executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde last met representatives of St Margaret’s of Scotland Hospice.","AnswerText":"I understand that the last meeting took place on 1 November 2010, although there has been correspondence between both parties since then. Most recently, the Chair of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde wrote to the Chair of St Margaret''s of Scotland Hospice on 21 February to arrange a meeting to discuss the services the hospice provides in light of recent developments around the Blawarthill project, and the NHS board''s subsequent review of continuing care provision for the West of Glasgow. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246150,"EventID":"S3W-39640","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the timetable is for the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the timetable is for the review of continuing care beds in the west of Glasgow announced by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on 10 February 2011.","AnswerText":"NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde expects to conclude the review by the end of this summer. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246151,"EventID":"S3W-39641","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to address the uncertainty regarding the future of continuing care beds at St Margaret’s of Scotland Hospice before the dissolution of the Parlia","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to address the uncertainty regarding the future of continuing care beds at St Margaret’s of Scotland Hospice before the dissolution of the Parliament.","AnswerText":"It is right that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde “ which is responsible for providing healthcare services that meet the needs of local people, whilst being consistent with national policies, frameworks and guidance “ robustly review the provision of NHS continuing care in the West of Glasgow, in light of the recent developments around the Blawarthill project. This will involve carefully considering whether the continuing care beds currently provided by St Margaret''s of Scotland Hospice should be maintained. To this end, the Chair of the NHS board wrote to the chair of St Margaret''s on 21 February to propose a meeting in the near future. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246152,"EventID":"S3W-39642","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funds it has made available for a Gaelic-medium school in Edinburgh and whether those funds are time-limited.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funds it has made available for a Gaelic-medium school in Edinburgh and whether those funds are time-limited.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39643 on 4 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246153,"EventID":"S3W-39643","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to establish a Gaelic-medium school in Edinburgh.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to establish a Gaelic-medium school in Edinburgh.","AnswerText":"Decisions on the future of Gaelic medium education in Edinburgh are for the City of Edinburgh Council. The Scottish Government recognises that there is strong support for a Gaelic school in Edinburgh from parents, from B²rd na G idhlig, from other Gaelic interests and in an independent study commissioned by the council. The Scottish Government has supported Gaelic medium education in Edinburgh for many years with additional running cost support. In the course of this financial year the Scottish Government indicated that we would be keen to support the City of Edinburgh with capital support towards a Gaelic school and a specific offer was made in November and December 2010. This offer was limited to 2010-11. There will be a Gaelic Schools Capital Budget in 2011-12 and if required consideration can be given to support for the establishment of a Gaelic school in Edinburgh at that time. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246154,"EventID":"S3W-39644","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what priority it has attached to training teachers able to teach in Gaelic.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what priority it has attached to training teachers able to teach in Gaelic.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government attaches a high priority to Gaelic teacher education. I have written to the Scottish Funding Council outlining that I wish to see the council continue to promote provision in this area, continue to pursue new avenues to increase the numbers of Gaelic teachers and to give consideration to initiatives which could improve effectiveness. In addition, the Scottish Government has provided financial support for the retention of a Gaelic Teacher Recruitment Officer who is based at B²rd na G idhlig and is responsible for promoting the recruitment and education of Gaelic teachers. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246155,"EventID":"S3W-39645","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2085,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":27,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made since September 2010 on final design work for the reopening of Conon Bridge railway station.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made since September 2010 on final design work for the reopening of Conon Bridge railway station.","AnswerText":"The development of a station at Conon Bridge was identified as a local/regional priority by HITRANS in their Regional Transport Strategy. Progress on the detailed design work for the station is a matter for HITRANS and its transport partners. The meeting held on 10 September 2010 with Stewart Stevenson focused on the funding arrangements, such as, design work and construction costs for the proposed station. We will shortly be determining the outcome of HITRANS'' request for a contribution towards the design costs for the project. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246156,"EventID":"S3W-39646","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2085,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":27,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what further steps are needed for the reopening of Conon Bridge railway station; how the reopening process will be managed, and what the timescale is.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what further steps are needed for the reopening of Conon Bridge railway station; how the reopening process will be managed, and what the timescale is.","AnswerText":"The steps required to be undertaken to enable Conon Bridge Station to be re-opened are: | Network Rail Process | Timescales | | Detailed Design Work | Up to 6 months | | Procurement Stage | At least 6 to 9 months | | Construction and Commission | Up to 12 months | It is anticipated (subject to funding being made available) that Network Rail would take over the scheme as project manager to enable the procurement and construction work to take place. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246157,"EventID":"S3W-39647","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts it has agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts it has agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","AnswerText":"Article 19 only applies when the contract value is above the relevant EU threshold. The Government has not awarded any contracts under Article 19 and does not currently hold information on contracts with supported businesses or contracts awarded under Article 19 across the wider public sector. We have however placed contracts with a value under the EU threshold with third sector suppliers (we use Capability St Judes to provide laundry services to Marine Scotland in Aberdeen) and part of the imminent call off from the collaborative Cleaning Framework, for the Scottish Fire Services College requirement, will be sourced from suitable supported businesses. We are also encouraging our main suppliers to engage with supported businesses and other third sector suppliers with regards to possible subcontracting opportunities. For example, our design and print contractor (APS, the main provider to the core Scottish Government and to a large number of collaborative partners) is currently working with Scottish Braille Press and Deaf Connections. APS are also opening up lines of communication with both Erskine and Remploy with a view to adding them to their roster of sub-contactors if the services they offer meet their requirements. The Scottish Government is taking steps to raise awareness of Article 19 within the buyer community and encourage its use. For example: In 2010 the British Association of Supported Employment, in partnership with the Scottish Government, published a brochure Supported Businesses in Scotland, which provides guidance to buyers on the use of Article 19 and provides details of the 24 Supported Businesses based in Scotland along with the products and services they can supply; Supported Businesses exhibited at the Scottish Government''s National Procurement Conference held at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre in October 2010; A new facility has been added to Public Contracts Scotland which automatically alerts buyers when a supported business can fulfil the requirements of their planned contract, and gives them the opportunity to reserve the contract under Article 19; This facility will also capture information on the number of contracts being awarded to third sector organisations and supported businesses through Public Contracts Scotland in future; and We are working collaboratively with supported businesses and their representatives to explore what more the Scottish Government could do to assist them during these difficult times. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246158,"EventID":"S3W-39648","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts local authorities have agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts local authorities have agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39647 on 15 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246159,"EventID":"S3W-39649","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts public bodies other than local authorities have agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many contracts public bodies other than local authorities have agreed under Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39647 on 15 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246160,"EventID":"S3W-39650","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to encourage the use of community benefit clauses.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to encourage the use of community benefit clauses.","AnswerText":"In February 2008, the Scottish Government published a detailed report on community benefit clauses with practical information on how and when to use the clauses. Over the past 15 months there has been a programme briefing events on community benefits aimed at public bodies. These have been attended by an estimated 150 buyers from across the public sector in Scotland. The original guidance was supplemented by an information leaflet published in 2010 asking public bodies to consider using community benefit clauses in all appropriate contracts and signposting sources of help and advice to facilitate this. Use of community benefit clauses is also a key part of the Scottish Sustainable Procurement Action Plan and will continue to be promoted as a major component of sustainable procurement. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246161,"EventID":"S3W-39651","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions it has used community benefit clauses to gain contracts for supported employment.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on how many occasions it has used community benefit clauses to gain contracts for supported employment.","AnswerText":"Community benefit clauses in Scottish Government contracts have, to date, focussed on youth unemployment. To increase opportunities for supported employment and other third sector businesses we have taken a range of actions including introduction of the Scottish Government Ready for Business Programme (aimed at capacity-building through training provision to third sector organisations) and we have amended the Public Contracts Scotland advertising portal so that an automatic alert is now issued to purchasers where a supported business may be interested in a contract they are preparing to advertise. Opportunities have also occurred at a sub-contracting level in Scottish Government contracts, for example, Scottish Braille Press provide services under the Scottish Government''s Design, Print, Publishing Contract. We continue to work with contractors to determine the potential to utilise supported businesses further. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246162,"EventID":"S3W-39652","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to encourage public bodies to use Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to encourage public bodies to use Article 19 of the EU procurement directive.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39647 on 15 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246163,"EventID":"S3W-39653","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many school playing fields have been sold in each year since 2007, broken down by local authority","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many school playing fields have been sold in each year since 2007, broken down by local authority","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246164,"EventID":"S3W-39654","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-14T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each local authority has raised by selling playing fields in each year since 2007","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much each local authority has raised by selling playing fields in each year since 2007","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246165,"EventID":"S3W-39655","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure that the environmental effect of retaining, amending or revoking legal agreements associated with planning consents will be taken into account under th","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure that the environmental effect of retaining, amending or revoking legal agreements associated with planning consents will be taken into account under the new provisions introduced on 1 February 2011.","AnswerText":"There is no change to existing criteria against which the need for any subsequent obligation would be assessed. The requirement for a) environmental impact assessment and b) habitats regulations appraisal, is provided by The Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999 (as amended), and The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) respectively. Where an environmental impact assessment or habitats regulations appraisal is required, that assessment or appraisal must be undertaken prior to the grant of planning consent and must consider all significant effects likely to arise from the proposed development. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246166,"EventID":"S3W-39656","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure that interested parties, including statutory bodies, local communities and interest groups, will be (a) made aware of and (b) given an opportunity to c","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will ensure that interested parties, including statutory bodies, local communities and interest groups, will be (a) made aware of and (b) given an opportunity to comment on applications to amend or revoke legal agreements associated with planning consents.","AnswerText":"Where an application is made to a planning authority for the modification or discharge of a planning obligation, the authority is required to notify any person (other than the applicant) against whom the obligation is enforceable and provide them with details of the application, including how to make any representations. The planning authority must set a date by which representations are to be made which must be a minimum of 21 days from the date notification of the application is served. There is no requirement to notify any individuals or organisations not party to the obligation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246167,"EventID":"S3W-39657","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive under what circumstances (a) environmental impact and (b) habitats regulations assessments will be required before legal agreements associated with planning consents can ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive under what circumstances (a) environmental impact and (b) habitats regulations assessments will be required before legal agreements associated with planning consents can be amended or revoked under the new provisions introduced on 1 February 2011.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39655 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246168,"EventID":"S3W-39658","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of concerns raised regarding staffing, training and planning issues for paediatric services in the West of Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of concerns raised regarding staffing, training and planning issues for paediatric services in the West of Scotland.","AnswerText":"The provision of paediatric medical services is one of the priority issues under consideration as part of a national, partnership-based project to bring medical workforce supply and demand into longer term sustainable balance, and to reduce reliance on trainee doctors for the delivery of frontline services. That project will result in future services being delivered predominately by trained doctors. Managing that transition is challenging and concerns have been raised by the west of Scotland in relation to the number of medical paediatric specialty trainees. These concerns have been progressed through the National Reshaping the Medical Workforce Project Board, and its working group, which provides governance for the process. After extensive consideration of all the issues, advice was provided to the concerned parties about future planning of paediatric specialty trainees and these will be taken forward by the West Region Medical Workforce Group. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246169,"EventID":"S3W-39659","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to address staffing pressures facing paediatric services in the West of Scotland.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to address staffing pressures facing paediatric services in the West of Scotland.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39658 on 10 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246170,"EventID":"S3W-39660","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has for the national screening programme for cervical cancer over the next five years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has for the national screening programme for cervical cancer over the next five years.","AnswerText":"Cervical screening is and will remain an important part of the Scottish Government''s strategy on reducing the burden of cancer through early detection for many years to come. The introduction of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination programme is expected to have an impact on the prevalence of HPV, and so cervical cancer, amongst women in Scotland in the long term, which may lead in due course to changes in the screening programme. The Breast and Cervical Screening National Advisory Group has recommended that a sub group be established to consider HPV testing within the cervical screening programme. The sub-group will use its expertise to consider the available evidence and will provide advice to the Scottish Government. The timeline for the sub-group to report will be agreed shortly. The HPV Test of Cure early implementation study commenced on 1 February 2011 for one year with pilot sites in NHS Lothian, Grampian, Shetland, Orkney, Highland and Western Isles. Women in these pilot sites, who have been treated for high grade cervical disease since 1 August 2010, will in addition to cytology testing also be tested for HPV. It is always important to keep abreast of new technologies and in 2009, the Scottish Government commissioned a feasibility study of image assisted screening which took place between March 2009 and September 2010. The Feasibility Study Report can be found on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/screening/cervicalscreening/LabReviewGroup/CervicalCytologyReports. We will continue to take account of epidemiological and surveillance information as well as new developments in technology when taking future decisions about the screening programme. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246171,"EventID":"S3W-39661","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the benefits of (a) image assisted screening and (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment it has made of the benefits of (a) image assisted screening and (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer.","AnswerText":"(a) The Scottish Government commissioned a feasibility study of image assisted screening and the recommendation has been made that image assisted screening meets the quality requirements and should be introduced where it is cost effective. The Feasibility Study Report can be found on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/screening/cervicalscreening/LabReviewGroup/CervicalCytologyReports. (b) The HPV Test of Cure early implementation study commenced on
1 February 2011 for one year with pilot sites in NHS Lothian, Grampian, Shetland, Orkney, Highland and Western Isles. Women in these pilot sites, who have been treated for high grade cervical disease since 1 August 2010, will in addition to cytology testing also be tested for HPV. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246172,"EventID":"S3W-39662","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to consider introducing (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer and, if so, over wha","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to consider introducing (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer and, if so, over what timescale.","AnswerText":"(a) The Cervical Cytology Laboratory Review Group has recommended the introduction of image assisted screening if cost effective to NHS Boards. The new Laboratory Consortium Steering Group has been asked to consider cost effectiveness as part of its work. (b) Consideration will be given to introducing HPV testing as a Test of Cure nationally following the early implementation study which will conclude its work on 31 January 2012. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246173,"EventID":"S3W-39663","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a pilot exercise is taking place, or is planned, for (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a pilot exercise is taking place, or is planned, for (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer and, if so, over what timescale.","AnswerText":"(a) The Scottish Government commissioned a feasibility study of image assisted screening which took place between March 2009 and September 2010. The Feasibility Study Report can be found on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/screening/cervicalscreening/LabReviewGroup/CervicalCytologyReports. (b) The HPV Test of Cure early implementation study commenced on 1 February 2011 and will take 12 months to complete. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246174,"EventID":"S3W-39664","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision on the introduction of (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer would be taken on a","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether a decision on the introduction of (a) image assisted screening or (b) testing for human papilloma virus (HPV) in screening for cervical cancer would be taken on a comparative or individual basis.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government commissioned a feasibility study of image assisted screening which took place between March 2009 and September 2010. The Feasibility Study Report can be found on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/screening/cervicalscreening/LabReviewGroup/CervicalCytologyReports. At its last meeting in January 2011, the Breast and Cervical Screening National Advisory Group recommended that a sub group be established to consider HPV testing within the cervical screening programme. The National Advisory Group will at its next meeting consider the remit, membership and timing of this sub-group. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246175,"EventID":"S3W-39665","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the liquid-based cytology equipment used in primary screening for cervical cancer to come to the end of its working life.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it expects the liquid-based cytology equipment used in primary screening for cervical cancer to come to the end of its working life.","AnswerText":"Liquid-based cytology equipment has a working life of between seven to 10 years. The original installation dates at each NHS board vary between 2001 to 2007 and NHS boards are responsible for the replacement of this equipment. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246176,"EventID":"S3W-39666","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2202,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what criteria would be applied in considering the introduction of (a) image assisted screening and (b) human papilloma virus (HPV) testing in screening for cervical cance","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what criteria would be applied in considering the introduction of (a) image assisted screening and (b) human papilloma virus (HPV) testing in screening for cervical cancer.","AnswerText":"The UK National Screening Committee provides expert advice to the four UK countries on screening programmes and is yet to fully consider HPV testing in screening for cervical cancer. In addition, the Breast and Cervical Screening National Advisory Group has recommended that a sub group be established to consider HPV testing within the cervical screening programme in Scotland. The sub-group will use its expertise to consider the available evidence and will provide advice to the Scottish Government. The timeline for the sub-group to report will be agreed shortly. With any introduction of or change to screening programmes in Scotland, evidence, effectiveness and cost benefit is always considered to ensure that the best possible programme in delivered for the Scottish population. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246177,"EventID":"S3W-39667","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much oil from Scottish territorial waters has been landed at each terminal in Scotland in each of the last 10 years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much oil from Scottish territorial waters has been landed at each terminal in Scotland in each of the last 10 years.","AnswerText":"The information requested is published by the Department for Energy and Climate Change and can be found on their website at the following link: https://www.og.decc.gov.uk/information/info_strategy/index.htm. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246178,"EventID":"S3W-39668","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much gas from Scottish territorial waters has been landed at each terminal in Scotland in each of the last 10 years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much gas from Scottish territorial waters has been landed at each terminal in Scotland in each of the last 10 years.","AnswerText":"The Department for Energy and Climate Change publish data on gas received at terminals in the UK which can be found on their website at the following link https://www.og.decc.gov.uk/information/info_strategy/index.htm. There is no gas produced in Scottish territorial waters. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246179,"EventID":"S3W-39669","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish the number of older people who died in hospital while deemed medically fit for discharge and awaiting a care package in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish the number of older people who died in hospital while deemed medically fit for discharge and awaiting a care package in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010 and have died in 2011.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally but from April 2011 a new dedicated information system will be fully operational. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246180,"EventID":"S3W-39670","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish the outcome of the review by the medical director of NHS Fife of the 93 patients who died in hospital after being deemed medically fit for dischar","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will publish the outcome of the review by the medical director of NHS Fife of the 93 patients who died in hospital after being deemed medically fit for discharge in 2010.","AnswerText":"This is a matter for NHS Fife. The Medical Director has said that he will review the circumstances and his findings will be reported to the board through the Clinical Governance Committee. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246181,"EventID":"S3W-39671","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all medical directors of NHS boards will review the circumstances of all older patients who died in their hospitals after being deemed medically fit for discharge","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all medical directors of NHS boards will review the circumstances of all older patients who died in their hospitals after being deemed medically fit for discharge in 2010.","AnswerText":"The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing wrote to all NHS board chairs on 10 February 2011 asking them that, when a patient has been deemed fit for discharge and subsequently dies before the discharge can take place, the board medical director ensures the circumstances are reviewed and reported to boards as part of their clinical governance arrangements. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246182,"EventID":"S3W-39672","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the social care budget has been spent on (a) children’s, (b) older people’s and (c) disability services in each year since 2007-08, also broken down by local ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much of the social care budget has been spent on (a) children’s, (b) older people’s and (c) disability services in each year since 2007-08, also broken down by local authority","AnswerText":"Copies of social work net expenditure 2007-08 “ 2009-10 are available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52531), providing the requested breakdown. This information shows a net increase each year, in each client group. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246183,"EventID":"S3W-39673","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what monitoring arrangements are in place in respect of the £70 million Change Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what monitoring arrangements are in place in respect of the £70 million Change Fund.","AnswerText":"All partnerships have now submitted local Change Plans to the Scottish Government. Before funds can be released, the Ministerial Strategic Group on Health and Community Care will consider plans at its meeting on 15 March 2011. We will write to partnerships shortly thereafter. The Joint Improvement Team will provide ongoing support to partnerships as they move to implement their change plans. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246184,"EventID":"S3W-39674","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-15T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the voluntary sector is involved in determining the use of the £70 million Change Fund at a local level.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how the voluntary sector is involved in determining the use of the £70 million Change Fund at a local level.","AnswerText":"Guidance to local health, housing and social care partnerships on accessing the Reshaping Care Change Fund was issued on 23 December 2010. This set a clear expectation on partnerships to include Third and independent sector partners in preparing and agreeing their Change Plans. All partnerships have now submitted local Change Plans to the Scottish Government. A report on these plans will be considered by the Ministerial Strategic Group (MSG) on Health and Community Care at its meeting on 15 March. The MSG will take into account the governance arrangements described by partnerships, and we will be in touch with all partnerships shortly thereafter. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246185,"EventID":"S3W-39675","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2030,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost to the NHS has been of medication made up in pharmacies but not collected in each year since 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost to the NHS has been of medication made up in pharmacies but not collected in each year since 2007.","AnswerText":"Prescription data available centrally relate to numbers and cost of items dispensed by community pharmacists and dispensing doctors. Data on items prescribed but not dispensed are not collected centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246186,"EventID":"S3W-39676","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been proceeded against for rape in Tayside in each of the last 10 years and in how many cases the charge was proved.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been proceeded against for rape in Tayside in each of the last 10 years and in how many cases the charge was proved.","AnswerText":"The available information is given in the following table. Persons proceeded against and convicted for rape1 in Tayside, 2000-01 to 2009-10 | | 2000-01 | 2001-02 | 2002-03 | 2003-04 | 2004-05 | 2005-06 | 2006-07 | 2007-08 | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | Proceeded against | 5 | 7 | 4 | 12 | 7 | 8 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 5 | | Convicted | 3 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | Note: 1. Where main offence. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246187,"EventID":"S3W-39677","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many cases of rape have been recorded by police in Tayside in each of the last 10 years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many cases of rape have been recorded by police in Tayside in each of the last 10 years.","AnswerText":"Crimes of rape recorded by the police in Tayside police force area, 2000-01 to 2009-10: | | Tayside | | 2000-01 | 58 | | 2001-02 | 60 | | 2002-03 | 83 | | 2003-04 | 59 | | 2004-05 | 63 | | 2005-06 | 90 | | 2006-07 | 58 | | 2007-08 | 55 | | 2008-09 | 54 | | 2009-10 | 38 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246188,"EventID":"S3W-39678","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the attrition rate has been for each of the last three cohorts of (a) adult, (b) mental health and (c) child nursing courses (i) at the University of Dundee and (ii)","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the attrition rate has been for each of the last three cohorts of (a) adult, (b) mental health and (c) child nursing courses (i) at the University of Dundee and (ii) in Scotland.","AnswerText":"The attrition rate for each of the last three cohorts of pre-registration adult, mental health and child nursing programmes at the University of Dundee, and for all of the Scottish higher education institutions is as detailed in the following tables: University of Dundee: | Nursing Group | Cohort Year | Cohort Size | Current Rate | | | | Adult | 2004-05 | 364 | 38.1% | | | 2005-06 | 351 | 36.1% | | | 2006-07* | 176 | 37.6% | | | Mental Health | 2004-05 | 73 | 31.9% | | | 2005-06 | 75 | 36.1% | | | 2006-07* | 41 | 20.0% | | | Children | 2004-05 | 30 | 33.3% | | | 2005-06 | 30 | 7.1% | | | 2006-07* | 23 | 25.0% | | Scotland: | Nursing Group | Cohort Year | Cohort Size | University of Dundee: | | Cohort Year | Cohort Size | Current Rate | | | | Midwifery | 2004-05 | 22 | 22.7% | | | 2005-06 | 24 | 28.6% | | | 2006-07* | 24 | 53.8% | | Scotland: | | Cohort Year | Cohort Size | Current Rate | | | | Midwifery | 2004-05 | 176 | 23.7% | | | 2005-06 | 172 | 26.7% | | | 2006-07* | 172 | 29.0% | | Note: *2006-07 This figure could improve as some students may still complete the course within the required five years. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246190,"EventID":"S3W-39680","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2603,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37562 by Fergus Ewing on 26 November 2010, how many people were (a) prosecuted, (b) convicted and (c) given a custodial sentence in","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-37562 by Fergus Ewing on 26 November 2010, how many people were (a) prosecuted, (b) convicted and (c) given a custodial sentence in cases involving domestic abuse in 2009-10, broken down by police force area.","AnswerText":"Information on offence aggravations have been published and classified as data being developed alongside the 2009-10 Criminal Proceedings in Scotland statistical bulletin and therefore extreme caution needs to be applied to these figures. They are initial results of a testing phase and are not fully developed. It is important that users clearly understand the status of these series and apply caution to the results, particularly when comparing results across time or geographically. We are planning work to increase our understanding of offence aggravations data and to assess and attempt to improve the consistency of recording of the data. It is anticipated that this work will be completed during 2011. An update and full details of any changes will be provided with publication of the 2010-11 Criminal Proceedings Bulletin. More details are available here: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Crime-Justice/Datasets/CrimProcDatDev. The available information on domestic abuse aggravations is given in the following table. Sentencing decisions are made by the judiciary based on all the facts and circumstances of the offence and offender. Persons proceeded against, convicted and sentenced to custody, for an offence with a domestic aggravator recorded1, 2009-10: | Police Force | 2009-10 | | Central | | | Proceeded against | 621 | | Convicted | 542 | | Custodial sentence | 42 | | Dumfries and Galloway | | | Proceeded against | 248 | | Convicted | 215 | | Custodial sentence | 30 | | Fife | | | Proceeded against | 512 | | Convicted | 447 | | Custodial sentence | 34 | | Grampian | | | Proceeded against | 839 | | Convicted | 748 | | Custodial sentence | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246192,"EventID":"S3W-39682","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings or discussions ministers had in 2010 with (a) UK Government ministers, (b) faith leaders, (c) religious organisations and (d) other groups or organisations ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what meetings or discussions ministers had in 2010 with (a) UK Government ministers, (b) faith leaders, (c) religious organisations and (d) other groups or organisations regarding civil partnerships in religious premises.","AnswerText":"In 2010 Scottish Government officials met representatives of a number of religious and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organisations to discuss civil partnerships in religious premises including the Quakers, the Liberal Jewish community, the Equality Network, Stonewall Scotland and the LGBT Network. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246193,"EventID":"S3W-39683","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2080,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":17,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has discussed with COSLA possible implications for charges for non-residential care arising from the UK Government’s proposed changes Disability Living Allowan","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has discussed with COSLA possible implications for charges for non-residential care arising from the UK Government’s proposed changes Disability Living Allowance.","AnswerText":"I can confirm that Scottish Government officials have been in discussion with CoSLA about the possible implications of the UK Government''s proposed changes to Disability Living Allowance. These discussions have included the potential implications for non-residential care charges. I can further confirm that the Deputy First Minister has written to the UK Minister for Disabilities expressing concern about the impact of proposed changes to Disability Living Allowance on devolved policies and services. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246194,"EventID":"S3W-39684","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1877,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":70,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of committed grid investment there is and planned grid investment it envisages over the next 10 years, broken down by (a) year, (b) project and (c) investor.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what level of committed grid investment there is and planned grid investment it envisages over the next 10 years, broken down by (a) year, (b) project and (c) investor.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government works to identify and deliver the reinforcement and further development of Scotland''s grid network that will connect and transport Scotland''s energy potential, deliver a low carbon generating mix and ensure security of future energy supply. Our Second National Planning Framework highlights a range of energy generation, infrastructure and grid developments of national importance to Scotland. Proactive use of our powers on spatial onshore and offshore planning and consenting has resulted in a step change in planning, consenting and developing Scotland''s energy future. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/07/02105627/0. We work closely with UK, EU Governments, the GB system regulator Ofgem and transmission system operators in a number of strategic groupings envisaging future gird network at UK and EU level; including the Electricity Networks Strategy Group on future onshore and offshore GB reinforcement, and EU level groupings on future interconnected grid development in the Irish and North Seas. The Scottish Government does not hold detailed information on levels of committed and planned grid investment. This is a regulated activity by Ofgem and the three transmission system operators (National Grid Electricity Transmission Limited, Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Limited and Scottish Power Transmission Limited). Decisions on specific grid projects and investment plans are part of this regulated process. The transmission system operators are responsible for developing their networks in line with their licence obligations. The revenue network companies can earn in doing so is determined by the regulatory price control process. This process provides the companies with future revenue levels and incentives to take forward efficient investment and running their systems. The transmission system operators develop projects to upgrade and reinforce transmission infrastructure within their area based on their assessment on what is required to run their network in an efficient manner. They submit these proposals to Ofgem for assessment and funding approval. Ofgem considers cost, and other factors such as need, for the electricity networks investment proposals put forward by network companies. The current transmission price control process (a Retail Price Index based process) runs from 2007-12. In that period Ofgem has agreed the transmission system operators can invest £3.8 billion in grid and network development. Detail is at: http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Networks/Trans/Archive/TPCR4/Pages/TPCR4.aspx. In addition, on 25 January 2011 Ofgem also announced a £95 million investment package over the next two years to increase the capacity of Scotland''s power networks. Detail can be found at: http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Pages/MoreInformation.aspx?file=ScotlandUpgrade25012011.pdf&refer=Media/PressRel. This price control period has been extended to 2013 as Ofgem transitions to an output performance-based approach to regulate energy networks. This RIIO model (Revenue = Incentives + Innovation + Outputs), covering eight year periods, will set regulatory price controls beyond 2013. The two Scottish transmission licensees are required by their licence obligations to assist National Grid, as System Operators of the National Electricity Transmission System, in preparing detail on the timing and scope of planned grid investment (as opposed to funding). Specific detail is available in the resulting Seven Year Statement at Clinical Standards for NHS wheelchair services are currently being finalised after a period of public consultation. Draft Standard 1, Essential Criteria 1.1 states that clinical assessments of mobility and mobility needs are person-centred and anticipatory. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246196,"EventID":"S3W-39686","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1854,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":72,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what commitment there is to fund the wheelchair and seating services modernisation programme after the current funding commitment expires.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what commitment there is to fund the wheelchair and seating services modernisation programme after the current funding commitment expires.","AnswerText":"By the end of 2011-12, the Scottish Government will have invested the £16 million committed to support the modernisation programme for NHS Scotland''s wheelchair and seating services. Beyond the requirements of the modernisation programme, it is a matter for NHS boards to determine the funding required to sustain wheelchair and seating services to meet the needs of their resident populations. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246197,"EventID":"S3W-39687","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether growing concerns have been brought to its attention regarding internet begging.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether growing concerns have been brought to its attention regarding internet begging.","AnswerText":"Concerns regarding internet begging have not been brought to the Scottish Government''s attention. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246198,"EventID":"S3W-39688","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-16T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has a role in (a) monitoring or (b) regulating the use of internet sites that provide advice to people with mental health problems.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has a role in (a) monitoring or (b) regulating the use of internet sites that provide advice to people with mental health problems.","AnswerText":"The regulation of the internet is reserved to the UK Government under the Scotland Act 1998. The Scottish Government does monitor the use of specific internet sites that provide advice to people with mental health problems which are supported by its partner organisations. For example, on Breathing Space (hosted by NHS 24) and on Well Scotland (hosted by NHS Health Scotland), information such as number of hits, source of hits, and frequency of hits is collected to inform policy. Additionally, the Scottish Government actively promotes support to help all people stay safe online, through various national and local initiatives, some of which are listed: Get Safe Online is a joint initiative between the UK Government, law enforcement, leading businesses and the public sector. Their website www.getsafeonline.org contains advice to help people stay safe online and to avoid some of the risks and threats which exist. The Scottish Government participates in the UK Council for Child Internet Safety, which is committed to improving the safeguards for young people, and published an Action Plan on Child Internet Safety in February 2010, available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/02/09154928/0. A second action plan is due to be published in March 2011. Skills Development Scotland provides information through the National Learning Opportunities Database on a wide range of IT courses, including courses that help individuals learn about the responsible use of the computers and the internet. ILA Scotland provides funding for people on lower incomes to access a wide range of IT courses. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246199,"EventID":"S3W-39689","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers outdoor learning to be an effective means of delivering the outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers outdoor learning to be an effective means of delivering the outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence.","AnswerText":"Yes. We believe that our children and young people''s learning experiences can be enhanced by maximising the potential of the outdoors. To help achieve this, we invested in the production and promotion of guidance in the form of curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning to support opportunities presented by the new school curriculum for learning in the outdoors. The guidance makes it clear that the outdoor environment offers motivating, exciting, different, relevant and easily accessible activities from pre-school years through to college. In addition, we have allocated more than £800,000 to support various initiatives to encourage the use of the outdoor environment to help deliver Curriculum for Excellence for all children and young people. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246200,"EventID":"S3W-39690","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the need to develop teachers’ confidence and competence through training and guidance to increase the use of outdoor learning for the delivery of ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its position is on the need to develop teachers’ confidence and competence through training and guidance to increase the use of outdoor learning for the delivery of Curriculum for Excellence outcomes.","AnswerText":"Feedback from events to promote curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning emphasised that access to good quality continuous professional development opportunities is key to embedding outdoor learning in learning and teaching. While it is the responsibility of individual teachers, schools and local authorities to ensure access to appropriate continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, we allocated funding of £100,000 in 2010-11 to enable Learning and Teaching Scotland to develop and deliver a CPD programme for teachers and early years practitioners. Currently, more than 730 teachers and practitioners have registered for the 51 sessions on offer. In addition the curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning online resource provides easy to navigate advice, guidance and examples of practice and resources to provide ideas and inspiration for learning in the outdoors. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246201,"EventID":"S3W-39691","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning is helping to build the confidence and competence of teachers to make effective use of the ou","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning is helping to build the confidence and competence of teachers to make effective use of the outdoors to achieve Curriculum for Excellence outcomes.","AnswerText":"Yes. We believe that the support we are providing through Learning and Teaching Scotland as noted in the answers to questions S3W-39689, S3W-39690 and S3W-39693 on 4 March 2011 is helping to build the confidence and competence of teachers to make effective use of the outdoors. This is reinforced through very positive feedback from the continuing professional development events. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246202,"EventID":"S3W-39692","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that any momentum generated by implementing Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning in building the confidence and competence of teachers ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that any momentum generated by implementing Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning in building the confidence and competence of teachers to make effective use of the outdoors to achieve Curriculum for Excellence outcomes should not be lost.","AnswerText":"We are committed to our children and young people having positive, sustainable and progressive opportunities to participate in a range of outdoor learning experiences. To achieve this it is imperative that the momentum and interest generated by curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning is maintained and built upon. The Outdoor Learning Implementation Group and National Network referred to in the answer to question S3W-39693 on 4 March 2011 will play key roles in taking outdoor learning forward but individual teachers, educational settings and local authorities must work together to embed the use of the outdoors in learning and teaching to provide powerful learning experiences. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246203,"EventID":"S3W-39693","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how (a) Learning and Teaching Scotland, (b) HM Inspectorate of Education and (c) teacher education institutes support the implementation of Curriculum for Excellence thro","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how (a) Learning and Teaching Scotland, (b) HM Inspectorate of Education and (c) teacher education institutes support the implementation of Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning and whether such support will continue when the Scottish Education Quality and Improvement Agency comes into operation.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government allocated £300,000 in 2010-11 to Learning and Teaching Scotland (LTS) to support the implementation of curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning. This enabled LTS to deliver a series of six regional events to raise awareness of curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning and to consider implementation issues; establish and facilitate the Outdoor Learning Implementation Group to provide a strategic focus to implementation issues; establish and facilitate the Outdoor Learning Network to bring together local authorities and key partner organisations to share the benefits of outdoor learning and to provide national support to local networks; respond positively to feedback from the regional seminars by developing and delivering a continuing professional development (CPD) programme for teachers and early years practitioners. HMIE and the Scottish Teacher Education Committee support implementation as members of the Outdoor Learning Implementation Group and teacher education institutes have participated in the CPD programme for the benefit of their students. We will continue to provide support for implementation of curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning and we are discussing with Learning and Teaching Scotland and HMIE how this might be best achieved to ensure seamless ongoing support when the new Education Agency comes into being on 1 July 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246204,"EventID":"S3W-39694","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the environmental factors identified in the strategic environmental assessment will be integrated into the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the environmental factors identified in the strategic environmental assessment will be integrated into the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan.","AnswerText":"A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (N-RIP) was undertaken, in accordance with the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005, and the Environmental Report was published for consultation in September 2010. The purpose of the SEA was to identify potential environmental effects and measures for their mitigation, and to ensure that this information is made available when decisions are made by site owners to progress individual sites contained within the N-RIP. In this way, it was considered that the SEA would assist site developers and investors by providing information about the potential environmental issues pertaining to the development of the individual sites, and how they can best be overcome. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246205,"EventID":"S3W-39695","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what environmental survey work is carried out before a decision is made on granting consent for an offshore renewable energy development.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what environmental survey work is carried out before a decision is made on granting consent for an offshore renewable energy development.","AnswerText":"Any development likely to have a significant effect on the marine environment must be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as required by The Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2000. A range of EIA studies are undertaken by the developer to identify the current status of the marine environment. This considers the potential impacts related to a proposed development as well as the proposed mitigation and any residual effects. Environmental concerns identified include: benthic ecology, marine mammals, fish and shellfish, seabirds, water and sediment quality, terrestrial and intertidal ecology, landscape, seascape and noise. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246206,"EventID":"S3W-39696","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for environmental survey work to identify the most appropriate sites for offshore renewable energy developments.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for environmental survey work to identify the most appropriate sites for offshore renewable energy developments.","AnswerText":"Marine Scotland has undertaken and issued regional locational guidance to help inform the future selection of sites. This guidance contains relevant information including, for example, information on environmental sensitivities, other marine users and the socio-economic structure of the area/region and sits within the wider marine planning structure being developed by Marine Scotland. The regional locational guidance is informed by Marine Scotland''s on-going work including our programme of seabed mapping. This programme has acquired bathymetric data to get a more detailed understanding of the depth and shape of the surface of the seabed, as well as its character (i.e. rock, sand, mud, boulders etc.) than that previously available. This information has been made public in order to help inform the future selection of sites for offshore renewable energy developments. The Scottish Government''s research programme and demonstration strategy will also provide information which can be used to inform regional locational guidance and the licensing process where appropriate. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246207,"EventID":"S3W-39697","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it encourages research into the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy developments.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it encourages research into the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy developments.","AnswerText":"A considerable amount of work is currently being undertaken on the potential environmental effects of offshore wind, wave and tidal renewable energy in Scotland and across the UK. The Scottish Government is working with other regulators, scientific bodies and industry to deliver a co-ordinated environmental research and monitoring programme to tackle gaps in knowledge and facilitate the commissioning of research projects to inform the licensing process and ensure good environmental data is available to planners, regulators and developers. The current work programme consists of 19 ongoing research projects which are carried out by a range of organisations including Marine Scotland Science and research institutes. The total funding for these projects is £1.3 million, of which just over £1 million has been provided by the Scottish Government. The Scottish Government is working with the Natural Environment Research Council to develop a series of three new research projects which address aspects of the environmental interactions of marine renewable energy developments. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246208,"EventID":"S3W-39698","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for research into the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy developments.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provides for research into the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy developments.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39697 on 14 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246209,"EventID":"S3W-39699","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Research Councils UK to encourage funding for research on the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy development.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with Research Councils UK to encourage funding for research on the environmental effects of offshore renewable energy development.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has not had any discussions with Research Councils UK on this matter, but has held discussions with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) on research collaboration. Marine Scotland will be involved in the steering groups for a number of relevant projects. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246210,"EventID":"S3W-39700","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1866,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":30,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it (a) identifies and (b) delivers mitigation for adverse environmental effects of offshore renewable energy development.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it (a) identifies and (b) delivers mitigation for adverse environmental effects of offshore renewable energy development.","AnswerText":"Mitigation can be identified at the strategic level through the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) processes. The Scottish Government has undertaken a strategic SEA and HRA for offshore wind energy in Scottish Territorial Waters. An SEA for marine renewables (wave and tidal) was undertaken in 2007. Work is currently beginning on an Appraisal of Sustainability for marine renewables which will refresh the 2007 SEA and also include a strategic level HRA. Further detailed assessment and identification of appropriate mitigation measures for individual developments must be made at the project level. The Survey, Deploy and Monitor policy, which is currently being developed by Marine Scotland and SNH, will provide a pragmatic, risk based approach to allow the deployment of renewables and will be a key tool to facilitate the delivery of initial demonstration projects. In addition, research and the demonstration strategy are focused on tackling environmental issues. The licensing process delivers mitigation by ensuring that any licence issued for relevant activities has appropriate conditions. Any conditions put in place with regard to a licence would be enforced by Marine Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246211,"EventID":"S3W-39701","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1839,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-17T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the timeframe is for the Nairn bypass.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the timeframe is for the Nairn bypass.","AnswerText":"This project, which is included within Intervention 22 of the Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR), will require many stages to be undertaken, including detailed design and development work before we can finalise the timescales for delivery. A timetable for delivering the Nairn bypass will be set in the context of overall affordability and our commitments to other STPR proposals. Early design work has commenced to identify preferred solutions for this project as part of our commitment to upgrade the A96. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-17T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246212,"EventID":"S3W-39702","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":4014,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will maintain any momentum generated by implementing Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning in building the confidence and competence of teachers to ma","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will maintain any momentum generated by implementing Curriculum for Excellence through outdoor learning in building the confidence and competence of teachers to make effective use of the outdoors to achieve Curriculum for Excellence outcomes.","AnswerText":"As noted in the answer to questions S3W-39692 and S3W-39693 on 4 March 2011, the Outdoor Learning Implementation Group and National Network will play key roles in taking outdoor learning forward. In addition, we are discussing with Learning and Teaching Scotland and HMIE ongoing support for implementation of curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning and how this might be best achieved to ensure seamless ongoing support when the new Education Agency comes into being on 1 July 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Michael Russell","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246213,"EventID":"S3W-39703","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers the impact has been of the Scottish Adjacent Waters Boundaries Order 1999.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what it considers the impact has been of the Scottish Adjacent Waters Boundaries Order 1999.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Adjacent Waters Boundaries Order 1999 was controversially made under section 126(2) of the Scotland Act 1998, as part of the devolution settlement, in order to establish a boundary between the waters within British fishery limits that are adjacent to Scotland, and those that are adjacent to other parts of the United Kingdom, most notably in relation to sea fisheries. The boundaries set out in the Order were replicated in the Renewable Energy Zone (Designation of Area) (Scottish Ministers) Order 2005, and later used to define the Scottish Marine Area in the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246214,"EventID":"S3W-39704","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding the North Sea sector boundary between Scotland and England as defined in the Scottish Adjacent Water Boundari","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding the North Sea sector boundary between Scotland and England as defined in the Scottish Adjacent Water Boundaries Order 1999.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Executive approached the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in 2009 seeking a review of the boundary. At that time Defra indicated that they had no plans to review the boundary. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-11T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246215,"EventID":"S3W-39705","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the initial revenue resource allocation to NHS Tayside (a) was in 2010-11 and (b) is for 2011-12 and what the percentage increase is.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the initial revenue resource allocation to NHS Tayside (a) was in 2010-11 and (b) is for 2011-12 and what the percentage increase is.","AnswerText":"In 2010-11 the initial recurring baseline formula allocation for NHS Tayside was £592.9 million. As usually occurs, some recurrent adjustments were required to be made to this baseline allocation throughout the year. The most notable adjustment in 2010-11 was that the initial allocation for 2010-11 included funding for cost of capital. This was subsequently stripped out, as per HM Treasury guidance, boards no longer have to factor in a cost of capital charge (therefore there is no impact on boards not getting funding cover for this area). This decreased boards'' allocation by £12 million and when factoring in some other less significant adjustments, the restated baseline allocation totalled £580.9 million. When using the restated baseline allocation of £580.9 in 2010-11, the uplift is close to 3%. In 2011-12 the initial recurring baseline formula allocation for NHS Tayside was £596.4 million. This represents a 2.9% increase on 2010-11 restated baseline figure. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246216,"EventID":"S3W-39706","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much NHS Tayside has been allocated from the Change Fund in its initial revenue resource allocation for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much NHS Tayside has been allocated from the Change Fund in its initial revenue resource allocation for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"In 2011-12, NHS Tayside have been allocated £6.2 million from the Change Fund in the initial revenue resource allocation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246217,"EventID":"S3W-39707","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much NHS Tayside has been allocated for loss of prescription charge income in its initial revenue resource allocation for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much NHS Tayside has been allocated for loss of prescription charge income in its initial revenue resource allocation for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"For 2011-12, NHS Tayside has been allocated £4.4 million for loss of prescription charge income. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246218,"EventID":"S3W-39708","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) actual initial revenue allocation and (b) NHSScotland Resource Allocation Committee target allocation was to NHS Tayside in (i) 2008-09, (ii) 2009-10 and (ii","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the (a) actual initial revenue allocation and (b) NHSScotland Resource Allocation Committee target allocation was to NHS Tayside in (i) 2008-09, (ii) 2009-10 and (iii) 2010-11 and is for 2011-12.","AnswerText":" | Year | Initial Allocation £ Million | Resource Allocation Formula Target Share | Target Allocation £ Million | | 2008-09 | 566.4 | 7.83%* | 555.6 | | 2009-10 | 578.6 | 7.84% | 568.2 | | 2010-11 | 592.9 | 7.84% | 583.1 | Note: * 2008-09 was a shadow year in which the new formula was tested but not implemented. For 2011-12, the initial baseline allocation is £596.4 million. The formula target share will be published on 29 March 2011. In terms of NHS boards moving towards NRAC funding parity, we are not reducing any individual board''s funding. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-16T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon ","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246219,"EventID":"S3W-39709","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated value is of the efficiency savings that NHS Tayside will be required to make in 2011-12, expressed as a percentage of its revenue allocation.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the estimated value is of the efficiency savings that NHS Tayside will be required to make in 2011-12, expressed as a percentage of its revenue allocation.","AnswerText":"Like all boards, NHS Tayside has an Efficient Government target for 2011-12 of 3%. This equates to around £17.9 million of the board''s general allocation of £596.4 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246220,"EventID":"S3W-39710","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the expenditure on hospital drugs in NHS Tayside (a) was in 2009-10 and (b) is anticipated to be in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the expenditure on hospital drugs in NHS Tayside (a) was in 2009-10 and (b) is anticipated to be in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12.","AnswerText":"In 2009-10, NHS Tayside''s expenditure on hospital drugs was £27.9 million. There is no information yet available for anticipated expenditure in 2010-11 and 2011-12. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246221,"EventID":"S3W-39711","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1831,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":6,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive (a) how many prescriptions and (b) what average number of prescriptions per person per GP list were dispensed in NHS Tayside in each of the last three years for which inf","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive (a) how many prescriptions and (b) what average number of prescriptions per person per GP list were dispensed in NHS Tayside in each of the last three years for which information is available.","AnswerText":" The requested figures are provided in the following table: | Financial Year | (a) NHS Tayside “ Total prescriptions dispensed | (b) NHS Tayside “Prescriptions dispensed per person on GP lists | | 2009-10 | 6,635,000 | 15.86 | | 2008-09 | 6,404,000 | 15.40 | | 2007-08 | 6,146,000 | 14.83 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-15T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246222,"EventID":"S3W-39712","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of petrol being stolen from cars have been reported in each of the last three years, broken down by police force area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many incidents of petrol being stolen from cars have been reported in each of the last three years, broken down by police force area.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246223,"EventID":"S3W-39713","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2595,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been charged with stealing petrol from cars in each of the last three years, broken down by sheriff court.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many people have been charged with stealing petrol from cars in each of the last three years, broken down by sheriff court.","AnswerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. We are unable to separately identify theft of petrol from vehicles within Scottish Government court proceedings data. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246224,"EventID":"S3W-39714","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1803,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":58,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will call in the planning application for a waste-to-energy plant at Dovesdale Farm in South Lanarkshire.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will call in the planning application for a waste-to-energy plant at Dovesdale Farm in South Lanarkshire.","AnswerText":"No. As formal planning consent has been granted by South Lanarkshire Council, Scottish ministers have no locus to intervene but I am satisfied that there were no issues of national significance raised by this application that would have justified it being determined at a national level. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246225,"EventID":"S3W-39715","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3538,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":13,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-18T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what training arrangements there are for (a) dentists and (b) anaesthetists who might require to sign certificates authorising treatment under general anaesthetic on beha","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what training arrangements there are for (a) dentists and (b) anaesthetists who might require to sign certificates authorising treatment under general anaesthetic on behalf of adults with incapacity.","AnswerText":"Medical practitioners, and this of course includes anaesthetists, have been assessing capacity for the purposes of Part 5 (Medical treatment) of the Adults With Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 (the 2000 Act) since that act came into force. Anaesthetists have training on assessing capacity as part of their training to become a doctor so are not specifically required under the 2000 Act to undertake additional training, in terms of signing medical treatment certificates. In practice, it is more likely that an anaesthetist would be working under the authorisation of another medical practitioner in terms of section 47(3) of the 2000 Act, which gives power to any other person who is authorised by the person on whom authority has been conferred to carry out medical treatment and who is acting on his behalf under his/her instructions or with his/her approval or agreement. When the 2000 Act was amended in 2006 to extend the scope of the range of healthcare professionals who can issue a section 47 certificate of incapacity, to include certain other healthcare professionals such as dentists, the need for additional training for these professionals was recognised. Scottish Ministers were therefore given powers to prescribe requirements that would need to be met by all of these additional healthcare professionals before they could issue certificates. The Adults with Incapacity (Requirements for Signing Medical Treatment Certificates (Scotland) Regulations 2007 therefore require other health professionals such as dentists to have completed and passed the course entitled Adults with Incapacity: Part 5 Amendment “ Assessment of Incapacity for Health Professionals. This course was piloted by Edinburgh''s Napier University, who hope, dependent on demand, to run this course again 16 May 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-18T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246226,"EventID":"S3W-39716","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what contact it has had with the UK Government regarding the conclusions of the report, Setting the Scene … for Scotland's Disabled Children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what contact it has had with the UK Government regarding the conclusions of the report, Setting the Scene … for Scotland's Disabled Children.","AnswerText":"Setting the Scene: A Map of Disabled Children in Scotland was published in December 2010 by the For Scotland''s Disabled Children Liaison project, which in developing the project consulted widely with stakeholders concerned with the children''s disability sector in Scotland. Setting the Scene lays out a range of data specific to Scottish disabled children and the services they and their families use, and is a live ongoing resource. Given the Scottish focus of this work the UK Government was not directly consulted, but is nonetheless aware of this work at official level. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246227,"EventID":"S3W-39717","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1752,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":57,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will meet representatives of the UK Government to discuss the report, Setting the Scene … for Scotland's Disabled Children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will meet representatives of the UK Government to discuss the report, Setting the Scene … for Scotland's Disabled Children.","AnswerText":"Setting the Scene: A Map of Disabled Children in Scotland was published in December 2010 by the For Scotland''s Disabled Children Liaison project, which in developing the project consulted widely with stakeholders concerned with the children''s disability sector in Scotland. Setting the Scene lays out a range of data specific to Scottish disabled children and the services they and their families use, and is a live ongoing resource. There are no current plans to discuss the report with representatives of the UK Government. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246228,"EventID":"S3W-39718","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what role community pharmacists have in managing the medication of patients with a long-term mental health condition as part of the new long-term conditions prescribing s","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what role community pharmacists have in managing the medication of patients with a long-term mental health condition as part of the new long-term conditions prescribing system.","AnswerText":"All eligible patients who have a long-term condition can register for the Chronic Medication Service (CMS). The service aims to support patients to manage their medicines and a pharmaceutical care plan is undertaken with patients where appropriate. GPs will be able to generate serial prescriptions for patients registered for CMS. In all cases, whether a patient''s condition is suitable for a serial prescription will be a matter of clinical judgement by the GP prescriber. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246229,"EventID":"S3W-39719","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made on implementing the recommendations in the report, A Fuller Life: Report of the Expert Group on Alcohol Related Brain Damage.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made on implementing the recommendations in the report, A Fuller Life: Report of the Expert Group on Alcohol Related Brain Damage.","AnswerText":"The majority of recommendations contained within the A Fuller Life report, published in 2004, were targeted towards local partnerships and service providers. The main recommendations for the Scottish Government were to raise awareness of alcohol-related brain damage and to support improved local service provision. In order to help achieve this, we committed to translating the principles and recommendations of A Fuller Life and the Mind the Gaps reports into practical advice to support joined-up local delivery to improve the awareness, support and service provision for people who have both mental health and substance misuse problems. This was published in Closing the Gaps “ Making a Difference in December 2007. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246230,"EventID":"S3W-39720","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in carrying out epidemiological research on foetal alcohol spectrum disorders.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress it has made in carrying out epidemiological research on foetal alcohol spectrum disorders.","AnswerText":"A four-year surveillance research project of the epidemiology of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome in Scotland, for which the Scottish Government is providing funding, began on 1 April 2010. The findings and analysis of the results will be published in a scientific paper at the end of the project in 2014. We would anticipate that the results will also be presented to the Scottish Paediatric Society, the British Association of Perinatal Medicine, the Neonatal Society, and the British Association for Community Child Health, the Royal College of Paediatrics Research and the European Society of Paediatric Research. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246231,"EventID":"S3W-39721","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what continuing professional development has been offered to midwives on educating parents on alcohol matters.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what continuing professional development has been offered to midwives on educating parents on alcohol matters.","AnswerText":"We would expect all NHS boards to ensure their staff, including midwives, have the relevant continuous professional development required to undertake their role. To support this, NHS Health Scotland has developed materials and resources to support NHS staff in delivering education and intervention in relation to alcohol matters. As part of Alcohol Brief Intervention (ABI) HEAT target, antenatal care has been included as one of three priority settings. Work is ongoing to roll out a national training programme, led by NHS Health Scotland, to provide confident and competent practitioners in delivering ABIs. This includes a specifically tailored programme and resources for the antenatal setting. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246232,"EventID":"S3W-39722","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many specialist multidisciplinary teams there are to support pregnant women with a drug or alcohol problem, broken down by NHS board.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many specialist multidisciplinary teams there are to support pregnant women with a drug or alcohol problem, broken down by NHS board.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246233,"EventID":"S3W-39723","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the SMR25 forms for drug misusers are now in use in (a) all statutory drug services, (b) all voluntary drug services, (c) the Scottish Prison Service and (d) all ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the SMR25 forms for drug misusers are now in use in (a) all statutory drug services, (b) all voluntary drug services, (c) the Scottish Prison Service and (d) all general practices.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39037 on 9 February 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx Currently there is not 100% compliance for the submission of SMR25 forms in all statutory drug services, (b) all voluntary drug services, (c) the Scottish Prison Service and (d) all general practices. Statutory (includes all NHS and Local Authority services) and Voluntary Drug Treatment Services: SMR25a forms are received from all statutory and voluntary drug treatment services in Scotland. Approximately 70% of these SMR25a submissions are completed electronically. In Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Aberdeen City approximately 65% and 75% respectively of statutory and voluntary drug treatment services currently submit SMR25a forms electronically to ISD Scotland. Outwith Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Aberdeen City, approximately 95% of statutory and voluntary drug treatment services currently submit SMR25a forms electronically to ISD. SMR25b forms are only submitted (electronically) by services who are also submitting electronic SMR25a forms. The vast majority of services that are submitting SMR25a forms electronically are also submitting SMR25b forms. ISD is working with data providers throughout Scotland to ensure that, as soon as possible, all services that provide a comprehensive or specialist assessment of a client''s care/treatment needs in relation to drug misuse are submitting electronic SMR25a and SMR25b forms to ISD Scotland. Prisons: Since 1 April 2010, drug treatment services within all 13 publicly funded Scottish prisons make electronic SMR25a and SMR25b submissions. At present, the two private prisons in Scotland do not currently submit any SMR25a or SMR25b data to ISD. ISD will shortly be engaging with the drug treatment services in the two private prisons with the aim of reaching a point where they are submitting SMR25a and SMR25b data electronically. Primary Care Providers (including GPs): SMR25a paper form submissions are received from a limited number of primary care providers. No electronic SMR25a or SMR25b submissions are received from primary care providers. ISD will shortly be following up its initial contact with GPs with the aim of reaching a point where all relevant GPs are submitting SMR25a paper forms to ISD. After this has been achieved ISD will work with these GPs with the aim of reaching a point where they are all submitting SMR25a and SMR25b data electronically. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246234,"EventID":"S3W-39724","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what priority it is giving to the electronic recording and transfer of information between drug services and social work services regarding children in families where the","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what priority it is giving to the electronic recording and transfer of information between drug services and social work services regarding children in families where there is illicit drug use or where a family member is on treatment for drug misuse, as part of ensuring that Getting it Right for Every Child is implemented.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government''s key priority is to promote best practice for information sharing where appropriate and which electronic systems should support. The national practice model under Getting it Right promotes the culture, practice and system changes needed to secure such best practice. The newly revised child protection guidance also includes best practice guidance around improved information sharing and practices within and across agencies that is based on the Getting it Right approach where children are at particular risk. The eCare framework also supports multi-agency sharing of child protection messages where appropriate. We continue to work with partner agencies to develop an application to support national electronic information sharing, not a national database, in respect of all children about whom there are concerns and to do so in a way which respects privacy and confidentiality. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246235,"EventID":"S3W-39725","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38441 by John Swinney on 21 January 2011, what payments were made to each area data sharing partnership in 2009-10 and how much is ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-38441 by John Swinney on 21 January 2011, what payments were made to each area data sharing partnership in 2009-10 and how much is budgeted for 2011-12, broken down by NHS board area.","AnswerText":"No funding was provided to data sharing partnerships in 2009-10. No funding will be provided in 2011-12. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-25T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246236,"EventID":"S3W-39726","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2059,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":18,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date building work commenced on phase 2 of the Gartcosh crime campus.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive on what date building work commenced on phase 2 of the Gartcosh crime campus.","AnswerText":"The stage 2 contractor commenced work on the construction of the Scottish Crime Campus on 21 February 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246237,"EventID":"S3W-39727","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive , further to the answer to question S3W-38568 by Roseanna Cunningham on 26 January 2011, whether there are circumstances in which satisfactory accommodation under the ter","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive , further to the answer to question S3W-38568 by Roseanna Cunningham on 26 January 2011, whether there are circumstances in which satisfactory accommodation under the terms of the Croft House Grant Scheme could be a one-bedroom property, for example where an assignation is made and agreed by the Crofters Commission to a single person tenant where there was no other applicant for the vacant croft.","AnswerText":"The purpose of the Croft House Grant Scheme is to improve and maintain the standards of croft housing. If there is an existing one bedroom house on the croft, assistance would be available for any necessary refurbishment or enlargement. The Croft House Grant Scheme will not assist the construction of a new one-bedroom property. Assisted new houses must have a minimum of three bedrooms and one living area, in addition to the kitchen and bathroom. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Roseanna Cunningham","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246238,"EventID":"S3W-39728","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many representations the Section 36 team of its Energy Consents Unit has received (a) in favour of and (b) against the development of each onshore wind farm applicati","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many representations the Section 36 team of its Energy Consents Unit has received (a) in favour of and (b) against the development of each onshore wind farm application received since 1 January 2000.","AnswerText":"This type of aggregate information is not held centrally. The Energy Consents Unit uses a casework method to process applications and has handled in excess of 100 wind farm applications since 2000, details are held separately on each specific case. If the member can state the cases which are of interest then information on a case by case basis can be readily supplied. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246239,"EventID":"S3W-39729","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many times the heating has broken down at the surgical block of the Southern General Hospital in each year since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many times the heating has broken down at the surgical block of the Southern General Hospital in each year since May 2007.","AnswerText":"The heating within the surgical block of the Southern General Hospital has broken down once in each of the following years: 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011. I have been assured that on each of these occasions, efforts were made to restore supply as quickly as possible, and contingency measures were in place for the interim period such as the provision of stand alone heaters and additional blankets. It should also be remembered that this Government is investing £842 million in the New Southern General Hospital. This entirely publicly-funded project, which is Scotland''s biggest ever new hospital development, will see a 1,109-bed adult hospital integrated with a 256-bed children''s hospital, providing maternity, paediatric, acute and support services on a single site. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246240,"EventID":"S3W-39730","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will offer funding for disabled people to improve access to elected office in local authorities and the Scottish Parliament.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will offer funding for disabled people to improve access to elected office in local authorities and the Scottish Parliament.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government fully endorses the principle that opportunities to participate, including standing for elected office, should be open to everyone and that active citizens are at the heart of the democratic process. Ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and similar factors should never constitute a barrier to involvement. The Scottish Parliament is founded on important principles which emphasise the importance of access, power-sharing and equal opportunities. The Scottish Government provided funding of £2.1 million over 2008-11 to national disabled people''s organisations with the aim of increasing the participation and inclusion of disabled people in the development and delivery of public policy at a national and local level. Ministers will shortly announce what national disability projects will be funded in 2011-12. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-02T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246241,"EventID":"S3W-39731","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the £249 million of investment front-funded by housing associations and cooperatives for building projects in previous years will be repaid.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the £249 million of investment front-funded by housing associations and cooperatives for building projects in previous years will be repaid.","AnswerText":"The £249 million figure quoted was an estimate made in 2010 and this figure is constantly being reviewed as we manage our budgets over the course of 2010-11. The final amounts and the timing of repayments will therefore not be known until the end of this financial year. Part of the £249 million is for the front funding agreed by Edinburgh and Glasgow City Councils and it will be up to the local authorities to agree with the housing associations and cooperatives that they fund the timing of these repayments. As far as the rest of Scotland is concerned, outwith Glasgow and Edinburgh Transfer of Management of Development Funding agreements, the majority of the estimated housing association front funding is due for repayment and will be repaid in 2011-12; with the bulk of the remainder due for repayment in 2012-13. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246242,"EventID":"S3W-39732","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has made to the UK Government regarding the effect of changes in housing benefit on Glasgow’s programme to provide temporary accommodation for hom","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what representations it has made to the UK Government regarding the effect of changes in housing benefit on Glasgow’s programme to provide temporary accommodation for homeless people.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has made representations to the UK Government on the effect of housing benefit changes throughout Scotland, drawing attention to the pressures the changes will cause to Scottish homelessness policy. This has included writing to Lord Freud, the UK Minister for Welfare Reform and sharing our Scottish Impact Assessment report with the Department for Work and Pensions. The report highlights the high proportion of housing benefit claimants in Glasgow compared to the rest of Scotland and includes a section on temporary accommodation changes. The Scottish Impact Assessment Report is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/supply-demand/chma/marketcontextmaterials/hbchangesscottishimpact/ We recognise that Glasgow City Council, in common with the other five stock-transferred local authorities, faces an additional financial pressure with these changes, as it is unable to provide temporary accommodation from its own stock. We have already commenced discussions with Glasgow City Council on the extent of the impact of this. Our ongoing partnership work with the Regional Housing Options Hubs seeks to promote a greater focus on homeless prevention via the Housing Options approach. This approach has received an enthusiastic welcome from local authorities and the work of hubs continues to move forward at an encouraging pace. However there are very real concerns from within the hubs that changes to Housing Benefit and the resultant impact on homelessness budgets is highly likely to hinder the successful progress of the Housing Options approach across the country. The Scottish Government/COSLA Joint 2012 Steering Group on Homelessness has also very recently produced a report on the management of temporary accommodation, which outlines specific areas that local authorities may wish to consider as options to improve efficiency and realise savings in temporary homeless accommodation provision. A copy of the report is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/access/homeless/2012Target/tempaccom. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246243,"EventID":"S3W-39733","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3811,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many day care managers there are for children; how many have degrees, and how many of those who do not have degrees have more than (a) 10 and (b) 20 years’ experience","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many day care managers there are for children; how many have degrees, and how many of those who do not have degrees have more than (a) 10 and (b) 20 years’ experience as day care managers for children.","AnswerText":"The number of managers of day care for children and their qualification levels are published on the Scottish Government website. The latest published data indicate there are 4670 managers of day care service and 34% hold a childcare qualification at degree level. This data is taken from Statistics Publication Notice: Education and Training Series: Pre-School and Childcare Statistics 2010, published on 29 September 2010 (web only) at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/09/28130623/0. Information on the number of years experience of day care managers is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246244,"EventID":"S3W-39734","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses will be built under the £50 million Innovation and Investment Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses will be built under the £50 million Innovation and Investment Fund.","AnswerText":"We plan that around 1,500 houses will be built under the £50 million Innovation and Investment Fund. However this will depend upon the bids received for the fund. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246245,"EventID":"S3W-39735","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its reasons are for not acting on the suggestion from two local authorities, in response to the Consultation on Marine Licensing for Scotland, that the business and ","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what its reasons are for not acting on the suggestion from two local authorities, in response to the Consultation on Marine Licensing for Scotland, that the business and regulatory impact assessments should have recognised the option of delegating marine licensing responsibilities to public authorities and costed these.","AnswerText":"The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 delivers stakeholders'' requirements for a streamlined and simplified licensing regime that delivers consistent results across Scotland and the UK. The creation of the Marine Scotland Licensing Operations Team (LOT) as a one stop shop for all marine licence applications, allows efficient, streamlined and consistent decision making across Scotland. LOT is located in the Marine Laboratory in Aberdeen and benefits from the best available scientific expertise and experience. An efficient, streamlined and consistent licensing regime is essential for Scotland to fully exploit the development of its marine renewables potential. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246246,"EventID":"S3W-39736","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2223,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":26,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will monitor the issues raised by the two local authorities that suggested, in response to the Consultation on Marine Licensing for Scotland, that the business and","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will monitor the issues raised by the two local authorities that suggested, in response to the Consultation on Marine Licensing for Scotland, that the business and regulatory impact assessments should have recognised the option of delegating marine licensing responsibilities to public authorities and costed these.","AnswerText":"The Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment carried out by Marine Scotland to inform the incoming fees structure, gives a commitment to review the costs to the Scottish Government of administrating the new licensing regime. Marine Scotland will follow up on that commitment and will implement procedures to monitor the performance of the Licensing Operations Team under the new licensing regime. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Richard Lochhead","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246247,"EventID":"S3W-39737","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2876,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":8,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made by the Children’s Services National Commissioning Steering Group.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what progress has been made by the Children’s Services National Commissioning Steering Group.","AnswerText":"The remit of the Children''s Services National Commissioning Steering Group resulted from the National Residential Child Care Initiative and the Securing Our Future Initiative reports. The reports recommended the strategic commissioning of specialist residential services for children and young people on a national basis, with an initial focus on secure care. Over the past 12 months the group has developed a draft contract which for the first time puts outcomes for children at the heart of commissioning secure care. In the light of the need to achieve decommissioning the last meeting of the steering group on 15 December 2010 heard that Scotland Excel would issue the contract on behalf of the Scottish Government and local authorities by way of a competitive tender process. The advert for the contract appeared on the Public Contracts Scotland website on 18 February 2011 and can be accessed at: http://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=FEB088370. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246248,"EventID":"S3W-39738","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1860,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget for rural home ownership grants was in 2009-10 and has been in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the budget for rural home ownership grants was in 2009-10 and has been in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"The budget for rural home ownership grants in 2009-10 was £1.002 million and the budget for 2010-11 is £0.742 million. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246249,"EventID":"S3W-39739","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2133,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":6,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-21T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider changing the terms of reference of the Penrose inquiry investigating the circumstances in which patients were infected with hepatitis C or HIV fo","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will consider changing the terms of reference of the Penrose inquiry investigating the circumstances in which patients were infected with hepatitis C or HIV following treatment, in light of evidence found by the inquiry.","AnswerText":"After consultation with Lord Penrose, I have decided to amend the terms of reference on the basis of new evidence that has come to light in the form of medical reports which do not support a link between Mr Neil Mullen''s death and any treatment received by the NHS. The revised term of reference 6 will be amended to read: To investigate the deaths of Reverend David Black, Mrs Eileen O''Hara, Alexander Black Laing and Victor Tamburrini, with particular reference to the circumstances in which they became infected with the hepatitis C virus, HIV or both. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-07T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246250,"EventID":"S3W-39740","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding has been provided by sportscotland to the Scottish Football Association in each of the last four years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding has been provided by sportscotland to the Scottish Football Association in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Football Association has received significant funding from sportscotland in each of the last four years to support the implementation of the sport''s development plan. The level of investment is an operational matter and I have asked the chief executive of sportscotland, Stewart Harris, to provide the detailed information requested. In the three years from 2008-09, the Scottish Football Association was awarded £2.535 million direct from the Scottish Government to deliver a wide range of football opportunities as part of the Cashback for Communities programme. A further £2 million has been provided from the Cashback for Communities programme to sportscotland to help support the delivery of quality facilities in communities across Scotland. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246251,"EventID":"S3W-39741","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the local action plans relating to the Change Fund are due to be submitted.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when the local action plans relating to the Change Fund are due to be submitted.","AnswerText":"All 32 health, housing and social care partnerships in Scotland were asked to submit change plans to the Scottish Government by 28 February 2011. As of 7 March 2011, all 32 change plans have been received. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246252,"EventID":"S3W-39742","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many local action plans relating to the Change Fund have been submitted.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many local action plans relating to the Change Fund have been submitted.","AnswerText":"Change Plans have now been received from all 32 partnerships. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246253,"EventID":"S3W-39743","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what process will be followed to agree the local action plans relating to the Change Fund.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what process will be followed to agree the local action plans relating to the Change Fund.","AnswerText":"We have asked partnerships to agree Change Plans through local community planning arrangements and submit them to us by 28 February 2011 to enable a national overview report to be considered by the Ministerial Strategic Group on 15 March 2011. To enable allocations to be made within the current financial year, we will work closely with partnerships to put agreed plans in place by June 2011 at the latest. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246254,"EventID":"S3W-39744","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the Intellectual Assets Centre’s budget has been reduced from £1.35 million in 2010-11 to £720,000 for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason the Intellectual Assets Centre’s budget has been reduced from £1.35 million in 2010-11 to £720,000 for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The planned budget allocations for the Intellectual Asset Centre are an operational matter for Scottish Enterprise in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise. I have asked the Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise to provide a response to the member''s question. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246255,"EventID":"S3W-39745","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Intellectual Assets Centre’s staff will be subject to compulsory redundancy.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Intellectual Assets Centre’s staff will be subject to compulsory redundancy.","AnswerText":"The issue of compulsory redundancy for Intellectual Asset Centre staff is an operational matter for Scottish Enterprise in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise. I have asked the Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise to provide a response to the member''s question. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246256,"EventID":"S3W-39746","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it is proposing to relocate the Intellectual Assets Centre.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive for what reason it is proposing to relocate the Intellectual Assets Centre.","AnswerText":"The location for the delivery of the work carried out by the Intellectual Asset Centre is an operational matter for Scottish Enterprise in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise. I have asked the Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise to provide a response to the member''s question. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246257,"EventID":"S3W-39747","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Intellectual Assets Centre is a fully owned subsidiary of Scottish Enterprise.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the Intellectual Assets Centre is a fully owned subsidiary of Scottish Enterprise.","AnswerText":"Scottish Intellectual Management Limited (SIAM) is a Company Limited by Guarantee whose core purpose is to operate and manage the Intellectual Assets Centre. SIAM is a subsidiary of Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246258,"EventID":"S3W-39748","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much the Intellectual Assets Centre has contributed to the economy in each of the last four years.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how much the Intellectual Assets Centre has contributed to the economy in each of the last four years.","AnswerText":"The assessment and evaluation of the contribution of the Intellectual Assets Centre to the Scottish economy in each of the last four years is an operational matter for Scottish Enterprise in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise. I have asked the Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise to provide a response to the member''s question. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-14T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246259,"EventID":"S3W-39749","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive under what circumstances ministers can call in a planning application regarding the demolition of a listed building.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive under what circumstances ministers can call in a planning application regarding the demolition of a listed building.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-39750 on 3 March 2011. All answers to written parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246260,"EventID":"S3W-39750","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether ministers can call in a planning application regarding the demolition of a listed building when Historic Scotland has not requested such action.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether ministers can call in a planning application regarding the demolition of a listed building when Historic Scotland has not requested such action.","AnswerText":"It is open to Scottish ministers to call-in any planning or listed building consent application they wish regardless of whether Historic Scotland has recommended this course of action. Most cases are, however, dealt with by Historic Scotland on Scottish ministers'' behalf. An application to demolish a listed building would be made under the terms of the Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas (Scotland) Act 1997. If minded to grant consent for an application the planning authority must notify it to Historic Scotland (acting for Scottish ministers). Scottish ministers must then decide whether they wish to call-in the application for their own decision. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fiona Hyslop","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246261,"EventID":"S3W-39751","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the compliance of (a) its directorates, (b) its agencies and (c) non-departmental public bodies with the UK Government’s Central Point of","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the compliance of (a) its directorates, (b) its agencies and (c) non-departmental public bodies with the UK Government’s Central Point of Expertise on Timber’s criteria for sourcing sustainable timber.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has issued its own guidance on procurement policy relating to timber and timber related products. The guidance recommends that public procurement officials should specify in orders and contracts that suppliers must provide evidence that timber and timber products have been lawfully obtained from forests or plantations that are being sustainably managed. It explains which certification schemes can be regarded as evidence in this respect whilst making clear that other evidence of sustainability should also be allowed. It also draws attention to the Central Point of Expertise on Timber (CPET) as a source of advice for assessing evidence for timber which is not part of one of those certification schemes. The Scottish Government has not carried out any assessment of how the wider public sector in Scotland complies with the criteria set out by CPET. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246262,"EventID":"S3W-39752","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the proportion of wood-based products procured by (a) it and (b) its agencies in the last 12 months that come from (i) Forest Stewardship","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what assessment has been made of the proportion of wood-based products procured by (a) it and (b) its agencies in the last 12 months that come from (i) Forest Stewardship Council-certified, (ii) Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification scheme-certified, (iii) other certified and (iv) non-certified sources.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government first issued guidance to public bodies in Scotland on the policy for procurement of timber and timber products in 2004. A further policy update was issued in 2005. This update gave details of four approved timber schemes, including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) schemes, that can provide the necessary assurances that timber purchased has been legally harvested from sustainably managed forests. This policy note also drew attention to the central point of expertise on timber which offers specialist advice on assessment of whether timber which is not part of the main certification schemes can be regarded as legally logged from sustainably managed forests. In the Scottish Government, all timber products procured on behalf of its Facilities and Estate Services Division, are Forest Stewardship Council certified and the contractor holds evidence to this effect. Scottish Government agencies are required to follow the guidance referred to above when procuring timber and timber products but no assessment has been made by the Scottish Government in the last 12 months of the relative proportion of FSC, PEFC, other certified or non-certified sources supplied. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246263,"EventID":"S3W-39753","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3896,"Party":"Scottish Liberal Democrats","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":25,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to update the procurement policy note on timber and timber products on its website.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it plans to update the procurement policy note on timber and timber products on its website.","AnswerText":"The Procurement Policy Note on timber and timber products on the Scottish Government website recommends that public procurement officials should specify in orders and contracts that suppliers must provide evidence that timber and timber products have been lawfully obtained from forests or plantations that are being sustainably managed. The policy note advises which certification schemes can be accepted as fulfilling these requirements whilst making clear that other evidence of sustainability should also be allowed. The Scottish and UK Governments are currently in discussions about timber certification procedures and are also developing criteria to ensure that biomass used to generate electricity under the Renewable Obligation, and heat under the forthcoming Renewable Heat Incentive, comes from sustainable sources. Once these discussions have been concluded, the Scottish Government will consider whether the current guidance requires to be updated. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246264,"EventID":"S3W-39754","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with housing organisations regarding the infrastructure loans fund announced in the budget for 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions it has had with housing organisations regarding the infrastructure loans fund announced in the budget for 2011-12.","AnswerText":"My officials have met with senior representatives from Homes for Scotland (HfS) to discuss how the scheme might be operated. In addition, on 2 March 2011, a stakeholder group, which includes COSLA, Heads of Planning Scotland, HfS and the Scottish Property Federation, will be given a brief on the new Housebuilding Infrastructure Loan Fund and will be asked for their views regarding operating criteria. Finally, early conversations with specific housebuilders, property specialists and registered social landlords, have been held to try to assess the number and type of development projects which may seek assistance. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246265,"EventID":"S3W-39755","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses were sold under shared equity schemes in 2009-10 and have been sold in 2010-11.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses were sold under shared equity schemes in 2009-10 and have been sold in 2010-11.","AnswerText":"In 2009-10 the number of properties purchased under the Scottish Government''s shared equity schemes was 1,979. Between April and December 2010, the number of properties purchased under the Scottish Government''s shared equity schemes was 657. This information is recorded on the sales log monitoring database from returns completed by registered social landlords administering the New Supply Shared Equity scheme throughout Scotland. Due to the nature of the collection, there can be a time lag between the sale occurring and being recorded on the database. An update to Housing Statistics for Scotland will be published at the end of May 2011 on the Scottish Government website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics. This will include the number of sales for the period December 2010 to March 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246266,"EventID":"S3W-39756","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1837,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":36,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses it anticipates will be sold under shared equity schemes in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many houses it anticipates will be sold under shared equity schemes in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"We aim to assist around 535 households to access home ownership in 2011-12 under the New Supply Shared Equity with Developers scheme and the Open Market Shared Equity scheme. In addition, the Scottish Government has also announced a £50 million Innovation and Investment Fund scheme. New housing for shared equity will be eligible for funding under this scheme. Applications for funding are currently due to be received at the end of May 2011 and details on allocations will be announced in summer 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246267,"EventID":"S3W-39757","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that NHS boards are implementing the clinical standards for neurological services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that NHS boards are implementing the clinical standards for neurological services.","AnswerText":"NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) has developed a two year programme of work with NHS boards and key stakeholders to bring about improvements in neurological services. We have provided the boards with funding of some £450,000 this financial year to assist them in developing neurological Managed Clinical Networks as the vehicle for local service improvements. On 4 February 2010, the Scottish Government Health Delivery Directorate issued CEL 3 (2010), which provided NHS boards with the outputs of the work of a Neurological Task and Finish Group. The letter asks boards to use these materials, in conjunction with the NHS QIS standards, to continue to develop their local neurological services action plans. By summer 2010, all NHS boards had completed a self evaluation against the first four, generic, standards. Their self evaluation against the condition-specific standards was completed in January 2011, and the results are currently being analysed by NHS QIS. This has helped to identify the issues on which NHS QIS needs to focus the support it provides to boards. NHS QIS is also arranging a series of events between March and June 2011 linked to implementation of the condition-specific standards, in collaboration with the Neurological Alliance of Scotland. These provide an opportunity for delegates to gain a greater understanding of the priorities for people living with neurological conditions, as well as helping boards continue to develop their neurological services action plans. NHS QIS is also running a series of improvement clinics, by teleconference, to provide further support to NHS boards'' neurological improvement leads. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246268,"EventID":"S3W-39758","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it has issued to alcohol and drug partnerships regarding meeting the new HEAT targets for drugs and alcohol.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what guidance it has issued to alcohol and drug partnerships regarding meeting the new HEAT targets for drugs and alcohol.","AnswerText":"There are two HEAT targets for alcohol and drugs: HEAT A11: to ensure that by March 2013, 90% of clients wait no longer than three weeks from referral received to appropriate drug or alcohol treatment that supports their recovery. HEAT H4: to deliver 149,449 alcohol brief interventions (ABIs) in primary care, accident and emergency and antenatal care by March 2011 with an extension to deliver an additional 61,080 ABIs by March 2012. With regard to HEAT A11 we have developed guidance on referral pathways (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/law/DrugsStrategy/recovery/HEAT/referral-pathways) in addition to a national resource, A Wait off Our Shoulders (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/06/02115503/0), which aims to share learning of good practice to improve access to treatment and reduce waiting times through service redesign. Further guidance on Drug and Alcohol Treatment Types (www.drugmisuse.isdscotland.org/wtpilot/DATWT_TreatmentTypes_rev.pdf) was published in 2010, which provides alcohol and drug partnerships (ADPs) and specialist services with advice on data entry to the new Scottish Drug and Alcohol Treatment Waiting Times Database. Guidance for delivery of the HEAT H4 target on alcohol brief interventions for 2011-12, will be issued to health boards and ADPs by the end of February 2011. This will subsequently be published on the NHS Health Scotland website. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246269,"EventID":"S3W-39759","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will monitor alcohol and drug partnerships to ensure that punitive discharge of users receiving treatment is not used as a way to free up places for new users in o","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how it will monitor alcohol and drug partnerships to ensure that punitive discharge of users receiving treatment is not used as a way to free up places for new users in order to meet HEAT targets for drugs and alcohol.","AnswerText":"The success of the HEAT A11 drug and alcohol waiting times target is reliant on cooperation from alcohol and drug partnerships (ADPs) and services from the health, local government and voluntary sectors. NHS boards, working with relevant partners, will be held to account for delivery of the target via existing NHS performance management structures. It is the responsibility of local services to have protocols in place for managing access to their services and the safe and not punitive discharge of clients from waiting lists. The HEAT A11 target is firmly embedded within the wider landscape of recovery, where the focus is on the individual and what is appropriate for their recovery journey. The new drug and alcohol treatment waiting times database, currently being rolled out for full implementation by 1 April 2011, will monitor discharge types and highlight individuals who are being discharged prior to receiving assessment or treatment. This information will be reviewed at national level for performance management and quality assurance purposes. The alcohol brief interventions target relates to early interventions for hazardous and harmful drinkers. Individuals receive this opportunistic intervention as part of their initial contact with a service, therefore are not within the scope of the access to treatment target. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246270,"EventID":"S3W-39760","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36623 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 October 2010, how many (a) bed days were lost and (b) procedures were cancelled due to ward closures","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S3W-36623 by Nicola Sturgeon on 25 October 2010, how many (a) bed days were lost and (b) procedures were cancelled due to ward closures due to hospital-acquired infection in (i) 2006-07, (ii) 2007-08, (iii) 2008-09 and (iv) 2009-10.","AnswerText":"This is a matter for NHS boards. The information requested is not held centrally. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246271,"EventID":"S3W-39761","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all schools maintain an up-to-date asthma register.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether all schools maintain an up-to-date asthma register.","AnswerText":"This information is not held centrally because schools are not obliged to maintain an asthma register. However, they are required to take action to ensure the wellbeing of children and young people, including those with asthma. Therefore this is a matter for education authorities and schools themselves. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246272,"EventID":"S3W-39762","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what national enhanced services are undertaken by GP practices in each NHS board area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what national enhanced services are undertaken by GP practices in each NHS board area.","AnswerText":"The following table records the NHS boards and the National Enhanced Services undertaken in 2009-10. | National Enhanced Service | Ayrshire and Arran | Borders | Dumfries and Galloway | Fife | Forth Valley | Grampian | Glasgow and Clyde | | Anticoagulation Monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Yes | | | Near Patient Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Drug Misuse | | | | | | Yes | Yes | | Immediate/First Responder | | | Yes | | | | | | Homelessness | | | | | | | Yes | | Minor Injuries | Yes | Yes | | | Yes | Yes | | | Scotland | | | £000 | | 2008-09 | 12,887 | | 2009-10 | 13,387 | This information is taken from the annual accounts of NHS boards. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246274,"EventID":"S3W-39764","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was to the NHS of each national enhanced service (NES) in the last two years for which information is available; in how many cases the fee included a per-pa","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was to the NHS of each national enhanced service (NES) in the last two years for which information is available; in how many cases the fee included a per-patient element, and how many patient fees were paid for each NES.","AnswerText":"The cash paid to the NHS for each national enhanced service (NES) in the last two years for which information is available (2008-09 and 2009-10) is as follows: | NES Name | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | | £ | £ | | Alcohol Misuse | 248,440 | 180,992 | | Anti-coagulation Monitoring | 2,796,895 | 2,882,309 | | IUCD Contraception | 673,993 | 720,589 | | Depression | 762,417 | 208,461 | | Drug Misuse | 2,738,132 | 2,940,057 | | Homelessness | 53,754 | 83,316 | | Immediate / First Responder | 31,581 | 37,156 | | Intra Partum Care | 12,593 | 6,800 | | Minor Injuries | 703,738 | 741,623 | | Multiple Sclerosis | 37,706 | 33,283 | | Near Patient Testing | 3,061,212 | 3,582,123 | | Sexual Health | 133,870 | 84,099 | | Total | 11,254,331 | 11,500,808 | Notes: Each NES apart from Immediate / First Responder included a per patient element. The number of per patient fees paid for each NES is not held centrally. The above information is supplied by Practitioner Services Division, NHS National Services Scotland and is as per payments administered by them. The cash amount will differ from the expenditure amount recorded in NHS boards annual accounts which is not available at individual NES level. NHS boards may have paid additional sums to other providers, or included in payments to S17C and S2C practices. Such sums are not included in the table. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246275,"EventID":"S3W-39765","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was of each national enhanced service, broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) 1,000 population, in the last two years for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was of each national enhanced service, broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) 1,000 population, in the last two years for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The cash paid for each national enhanced service broken down by (a) NHS board and (b) 1,000 population is as follows: (a) Cash Paid for Each National Enhanced Service (NES) Broken Down by NHS Board, Financial Year 2008-09: | NHS Board | Alcohol Misuse £ | Anti-Coagulation Monitoring £ | IUCD Contraception £ | Depression £ | | Ayrshire and Arran | 0 | 208,928 | 188,897 | 0 | | Borders | 0 | 125,747 | 18,757 | 0 | | Dumfries and Galloway | 0 | 210,889 | 29,625 | 0 | | Fife | 0 | 352,666 | 85,448 | 0 | | Forth Valley | 0 | 500,700 | 104,050 | 0 | | Grampian | 0 | 0 | 66,973 | 0 | | Greater Glasgow and Clyde | 241,674 | 497,870 | 92,416 | 694,162 | | Highland | 0 | 299,337 | 63,391 | 68,255 | | Lanarkshire | 0 | 523,031 | 22,215 | 0 | | Lothian | 0 | 20,333 | 0 | 0 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246276,"EventID":"S3W-39766","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what local enhanced services in primary care were delivered by each NHS board in the last year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what local enhanced services in primary care were delivered by each NHS board in the last year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The following table records the NHS boards and the local enhanced services undertaken in 2009-10. | Local Enhanced Service | Ayrshire and Arran | Borders | Dumfries and Galloway | Fife | Forth Valley | Grampian | Glasgow and Clyde | | Care Homes (Nursing/Residential) | Yes | | | | Yes | Yes | | | Care Homes (LD) | | Yes | | | | | | | Anticipatory Care “ Plan/Prevent | | Yes | | | | | | | Lithium monitoring | | | | | | | | | Alcohol Screen / B1 | | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Yes | Yes | | Contraception | Yes | | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | GMS Impact | | | | | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246277,"EventID":"S3W-39767","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was of each local enhanced service in each NHS board in the last year for which information is available.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the cost was of each local enhanced service in each NHS board in the last year for which information is available.","AnswerText":"The cash paid for each local enhanced service in each NHS Board in the last year for which information is available is as follows: Financial Year: 2009-10 | NHS Board | NHS Ayrshire and Arran £ | | Local Enhanced Services: | | | Better Working with GP Practices | 187,017 | | HPV Schedule A | 9,831 | | LES - LD1 H1N1 (A) | 725 | | LES - LD10 Home Detox (W) | 42,132 | | LES - LD11 Families at Risk (A) | 9,400 | | LES - LD12 H Pylori Eradication (A) | 63,925 | | LES - LD14 Hand Hygiene (A) | 8,950 | | LES - LD15 Hepatitis B - at Risk (A) | 8,460 | | LES - LD16 Minor Injuries (Lacerations) (A) | 29,677 | | LES - LD17 Community Hospital (A) | 160,499 | | LES - LD19 Provision of Specialist Dermatology (A) | 57,915 | | LES - LD2 Ladeside Gardens (A) | 7,138 | | LES - LD20 Provision of a Homeopathy Service (A) | 40,000 | | LES - LD22 Referral Management (Local Care 3) (A) | 12,943 | | LES - LD23 Keep Well Project (A) | 348,940 | | LES - LD24 Ring Pessarys (A) | 21,600 | | LES - LD25 PMS Enhanced Services (A) | 524,324 | | LES - LD3 Pay Agreement (A) | 324,674 | | LES - LD4 Vired Funds (A) | 586,494 | | LES - LD5 Contraceptive Implants (A) | 42,312 | | LES - LD6 Moorpark House (A) | 21,680 | | LES - LD7","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246278,"EventID":"S3W-39768","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what evidence has been collected on national enhanced services in primary care that demonstrates the objective of shifting care from secondary to primary services.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what evidence has been collected on national enhanced services in primary care that demonstrates the objective of shifting care from secondary to primary services.","AnswerText":"We do not collect information nationally which measures shifts in the balance of care in relation to the various national enhanced service programmes. Shifts in the balance of care are a means to an end which is better outcomes measured via HEAT targets, the Community Care Outcomes Framework and other strategic priorities contained in various strategies. NHS boards are responsible for deciding on the areas for improvement in line with the policy we set out in 2009 which was agreed with COSLA and for making the necessary changes to deliver agreed outcomes. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246279,"EventID":"S3W-39769","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what definition of homeless is used in determining the per-patient fee as part of the national enhanced service for care for homeless people.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what definition of homeless is used in determining the per-patient fee as part of the national enhanced service for care for homeless people.","AnswerText":"As defined in the national enhanced services guidance for GP practices, homelessness is described as a wide range of circumstances where people have no secure home and is defined in legislation for the purpose of determining entitlement to assistance and support from public service providers. Groups defined as homeless for Healthcare provision include: rough sleepers, hostel/night shelter residents; residents in bed and breakfast premises, squatters; people staying temporararily with friends and family; all those with physical/mental health problems and all vulnerable people who have experienced domestic or racial abuse. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246280,"EventID":"S3W-39770","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it will provide to the Scottish Business Crime Centre for the three-year period following March 2011.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it will provide to the Scottish Business Crime Centre for the three-year period following March 2011.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is committed to providing £265,902 to the Scottish Business Crime Centre (SBCC) for the period 2011-12. A funding proposal for full three year funding beyond March 2012 is expected to be submitted by the SBCC for consideration in the summer/autumn of 2011. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246281,"EventID":"S3W-39771","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provided to the Association of Scottish National Neighbourhood Watches in 2009-10 and has provided for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding it provided to the Association of Scottish National Neighbourhood Watches in 2009-10 and has provided for (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government has committed to provide funding to the Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches to the value of £255,547 between 2008 and 2011. The following table shows a breakdown of funding to the organisation for the period 2008 to 2012: | Period | Amount | | 2008-09 | £ 85,900 | | 2009-10 | £ 85,515 | | 2010-11 | £ 84,132 | | 2011-12 | £ 75,000 | | Total | £330,547 | ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Fergus Ewing","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246282,"EventID":"S3W-39772","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made to prison rules since May 2007 to ensure that the most effective contact is sustained between parents and children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what changes have been made to prison rules since May 2007 to ensure that the most effective contact is sustained between parents and children.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: There have been no changes to the prison rules since May 2007 relating to effective contact between parents and children. SPS recognises the importance of family contact and each prison has a family contact officer whose role is to support the needs of prisoners'' families and children, by enhancing family contact and offering support and guidance to relatives. This can include making arrangements for family visits. In addition, the SPS currently provides financial support to Families Outside to provide information through the Scottish Prisoners'' Family Helpline. SPS is currently reviewing its good practice guidelines for working with children and families of prisoners to ensure that the policy supports the needs of families. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246283,"EventID":"S3W-39773","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what requirements it has introduced in relation to the development or refurbishment of prison facilities to ensure that the needs and rights of children are taken into ac","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what requirements it has introduced in relation to the development or refurbishment of prison facilities to ensure that the needs and rights of children are taken into account.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. His response is as follows: In respect of the needs and rights of children in Scottish prisons, under Scottish law children, defined as being under the age of 16, are no longer sent to prison with effect from the enactment of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act in December 2010. In terms of the United Nations definition, children are defined as being under 18. SPS has allocated Blair House at HMYOI Polmont as accommodation to house convicted male young offenders under the age of 18. Blair House offers a specific regime to meet the needs and rights of this group. With regard to children visiting SPS establishments, the SPS, in designing the specification for operational procedures in new and redeveloped prisons, takes into consideration the aims of the SPS Children and Families Strategy. For example, the new public sector prison at Low Moss, which is due to open in 2012, will include in its visit facility an internal children''s play area and an area outwith the confines of the main visit area to accommodate family visits. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246284,"EventID":"S3W-39774","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that a visitor centre separate from formal visitor facilities in prisons is provided for support before and after formal visits.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to ensure that a visitor centre separate from formal visitor facilities in prisons is provided for support before and after formal visits.","AnswerText":"The current focus of the Scottish Prison Service is on improving the facilities within prisons to support contact between prisoners and their families, and enable prisoners to engage with those services they will require on release. The Scottish Government is actively considering how we can build on the success of visitor centres at HMP Perth and HMP Edinburgh, with a particular focus on how they can offer opportunities for a number of statutory and voluntary agencies to reach people who would benefit from support. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246285,"EventID":"S3W-39775","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the national standards for social enquiry reports include a requirement to assess the impact on children.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the national standards for social enquiry reports include a requirement to assess the impact on children.","AnswerText":"Revised guidance on criminal justice social work reports was published on the Scottish Government website on 24 December 2010 at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/925/0110144.pdf. Section 6 of the guidance requires report writers to assess the potential impact of all relevant sentencing options, including custody, on the individual''s family including on his or her children. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246286,"EventID":"S3W-39776","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many family contact development officers or equivalent there are in each prison.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many family contact development officers or equivalent there are in each prison.","AnswerText":"I have asked John Ewing, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, to respond. His response is as follows: There are currently 69 family contact officers (FCOs) working in prisons in Scotland. The FCO role is a key element of the Scottish Prison Service''s commitment to providing services to the families of prisoners to help support them during their relative''s time in custody. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246287,"EventID":"S3W-39777","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2182,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since May 2007 to ensure that children with a parent in prison are recorded as being in need in terms of section 22 of the Children (Scotland) Act","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since May 2007 to ensure that children with a parent in prison are recorded as being in need in terms of section 22 of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995.","AnswerText":"The Scottish Government is very conscious that children who have a parent in prison may have additional support needs in terms of section 22 of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995. Some steps we have taken so that these needs can be highlighted are: 1. The Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2009 strengthened the 2004 Act which placed a duty on education authorities to identify, meet and keep under review the additional support needs of all pupils for whom they are responsible, and to tailor provision to their individual needs. 2. New guidance for social workers was published on 24 December 2010 which specifically advises report writers to consider the impact on children and other family members of certain community disposals and especially custody. 3. The Minister for Children and Early Years hosted a meeting with representatives from Families Outside, Action for Children, Barnardos, SCCYP (Scotland''s Commissioner for Children and Young People) and Children in Scotland to discuss suggested ways forward on 25 January 2011 and officials are currently developing mechanisms to help identify children with specific support needs. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Adam Ingram","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246288,"EventID":"S3W-39778","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether proposed housing developments by a registered social landlord must receive planning permission before grant support to assist with construction costs can be award","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether proposed housing developments by a registered social landlord must receive planning permission before grant support to assist with construction costs can be awarded.","AnswerText":"It is possible for an award of grant to be made to a Registered Social Landlord to assist with construction costs prior to planning permission for the approved project having been granted. In all such cases the formal offer of grant would contain an essential condition requiring full planning consent for the development to have been obtained by the Registered Social Landlord prior to any grant monies being released. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-28T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Alex Neil","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246289,"EventID":"S3W-39779","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2675,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":3,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will meet its obligations under section 71 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 regarding permitted development rights for microgeneration equipment on non-d","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive when it will meet its obligations under section 71 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 regarding permitted development rights for microgeneration equipment on non-domestic properties.","AnswerText":"The Town And Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Non-Domestic Microgeneration) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2011 (SSI 2011/136), to introduce permitted development rights for microgeneration equipment on non-domestic properties, was laid in the Parliament today and can be accessed at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Keith Brown","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246290,"EventID":"S3W-39780","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":2394,"Party":"Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party","RegionID":5,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will require a public local inquiry to be held into the proposal for the Viking wind farm on Shetland and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will require a public local inquiry to be held into the proposal for the Viking wind farm on Shetland and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.","AnswerText":"Given the role of Scottish ministers in determining this application it would be inappropriate to comment on its specifics at this stage. A decision will be made on this application in due course. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Jim Mather","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246291,"EventID":"S3W-39781","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3750,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":4,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many jobs it estimates will be created under its plans for a low-carbon economy by 2014-15.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how many jobs it estimates will be created under its plans for a low-carbon economy by 2014-15.","AnswerText":"The Low Carbon Economic Strategy highlights the massive potential that renewable, environmental and emerging low carbon sectors have in Scotland. In considering the evidence base underpinning the Strategy we estimate that employment in the Low Carbon Environmental Goods and Services (LCEGS) sector could support an additional 22,000 additional jobs by 2014-15. This would increase employment in the sector to 95,000 by 2014-15 from its 2008-09 base of 73,000. ","AnswerDate":"2011-02-24T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246292,"EventID":"S3W-39782","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding will be provided for the Choose Life programme in 2011-12.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what funding will be provided for the Choose Life programme in 2011-12.","AnswerText":"Funding for Choose Life in 2011-12 is wrapped up within the total funding allocation to NHS Health Scotland of £1.4 million. Based on previous budget allocation, approximately 50% of this will be spent on Choose Life. Under the concordat between the Scottish Government and COSLA, funding for local suicide prevention action is wrapped up in general allocations to local authorities. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246293,"EventID":"S3W-39783","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how funding for the Choose Life programme has been distributed in each year since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how funding for the Choose Life programme has been distributed in each year since May 2007.","AnswerText":"I refer the member to the answer to question S3W-36286 on 28 September 2010. All answers to parliamentary questions are available on the Parliament''s website, the search facility for which can be found at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/Default.aspx. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-01T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246294,"EventID":"S3W-39784","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what monitoring arrangements are in place for the Choose Life programme.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what monitoring arrangements are in place for the Choose Life programme.","AnswerText":"Revised proposals for monitoring Choose Life were made in the Report of the National Suicide Prevention Working Group, Refreshing the National Strategy and Action Plan to Prevent Suicide in Scotland, published 29 October 2010. Details are available at the following link: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/10/26112102/13. The monitoring proposals have been adopted and the group has already had its first meeting. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246295,"EventID":"S3W-39785","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive how funding from the Choose Life programme has been spent by NHS Health Scotland in each year since May 2007.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive how funding from the Choose Life programme has been spent by NHS Health Scotland in each year since May 2007.","AnswerText":"Choose Life has been a programme of work at NHS Health Scotland since April 2008. Prior to this it formed part of the Scottish Government''s former National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Wellbeing. Broad areas of spend by NHS Health Scotland on the Choose Life Programme since April 2008 are as follows: | Key Activity Area | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 | | Stakeholder engagement | £21,000 | £13,000 | £17,555 | | Awareness raising | £142,500 | £210,000 | £90,000 | | Provision of education and training about suicidal behaviour | £315,000 | £395,000 | £216,000 | | Capacity building and support to local areas | £11,000 | £60,000 | £60,200 | | Provision of communication resources | £3,800 | £29,350 | £26,610 | | Sub totals | £493,300 | £707,350 | £410,365 | | Staff Costs, including on costs | £426,700 | £265,290 | £337,319 | | Totals | £920,000 | £972,640 | £747,684 | The reason why there is variation in spend between the three years is due to a number of factors. These are: Choose Life is embedded within NHS Health Scotland - additional resources, corporate, staff and other input have contributed to the Choose Life programme through NHS Health Scotland''s Core Budget; Choose Life events, cheaper daily delegate rates and publications online rather than paper printing, have been delivered at lower costs than was originally estimated. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Shona Robison","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246296,"EventID":"S3W-39786","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-22T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the announcement of £400 million for a new mental health strategy by the UK Government will have a Barnett consequential and, if so, (a) what this will be and (b)","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether the announcement of £400 million for a new mental health strategy by the UK Government will have a Barnett consequential and, if so, (a) what this will be and (b) how it will allocate it.","AnswerText":"This announcement does not generate any new Barnett consequentials. Scotland has already received the full consequentials on the Department of Health''s spending review settlement in England, and we have already confirmed that all of these resources will be invested in the health sector and frontline services. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-10T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-08T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246297,"EventID":"S3W-39787","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1783,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":67,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the next steps are for implementing the recommendations in the Cross Party Group on Muscular Dystrophy’s The Mackie Report following the meeting between the Scottish","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive what the next steps are for implementing the recommendations in the Cross Party Group on Muscular Dystrophy’s The Mackie Report following the meeting between the Scottish Executive and the Scottish Muscle Network on 8 February 2011.","AnswerText":"We intend to issue a statement in the very near future on implementing the recommendations in the Scottish Muscle Network''s review of neuromuscular services and in the Mackie Report. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Nicola Sturgeon","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246298,"EventID":"S3W-39788","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":3758,"Party":"Scottish National Party","RegionID":1,"ConstituencyID":null,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of proposed changes to autopsy services for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in any NHS board area.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of proposed changes to autopsy services for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in any NHS board area.","AnswerText":"The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service is currently discussing issues raised by NHS Lanarkshire regarding the provision of post mortems in Wishaw General Hospital. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-04T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Frank Mulholland","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246299,"EventID":"S3W-39789","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether members of committees of voluntary sector organisations such as hall committees can be held financially liable for debts incurred by the running of the organisati","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether members of committees of voluntary sector organisations such as hall committees can be held financially liable for debts incurred by the running of the organisation and, if so, what safeguards can be put in place to protect volunteers.","AnswerText":"The legal form of an organisation will determine who is financially liable. Subject to parliamentary process, we expect the Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) to be introduced for new charities from 1 April 2011. This is a new form of corporate body, exclusively for charities, which provides the benefits of incorporation without the requirement also to register with Companies House (or the Financial Standards Authority). The members of a SCIO would not be liable to contribute financially to its debts on dissolution. In addition, the Scottish Law Commission recently recommended that the law on unincorporated association be reviewed, to allow unincorporated associations to acquire legal personality. This may remove some of the exposure to financial liability that committee members may currently have, as well as other problems caused by lack of legal personality. As the matter is reserved, this would require United Kingdom legislation. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"John Swinney","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246300,"EventID":"S3W-39790","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its guidance to local authorities on the implementation of the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 was laid before the Parliament.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive whether its guidance to local authorities on the implementation of the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 was laid before the Parliament.","AnswerText":"Yes. Ahead of the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 coming into force on 26 February 2011, I wrote to Duncan McNeil MSP, convener of the Local Government and Communities Committee to provide a copy of the guidance. My officials also provided copies of the guidance to the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 52521) to make the guidance available for members. ","AnswerDate":"2011-03-03T00:00:00","AnswerStatusID":null,"ExpectedAnswerDate":"2011-03-09T00:00:00","MeetingDate":null,"AnsweredByMSP":"Kenny MacAskill","OnBehalfOf":null,"ConsideredForMembersBusiness":null,"CrossPartySupport":null,"RegisteredInterest":null},{"UniqueID":246301,"EventID":"S3W-39791","EventTypeID":1,"EventSubTypeID":1,"MSPID":1768,"Party":"Scottish Labour","RegionID":null,"ConstituencyID":60,"ApprovedDate":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","SubmissionDateTime":"2011-02-23T00:00:00","Title":"To ask the Scottish Executive where members of the public can access its guidance to local authorities on the implementation of the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010.","ItemText":"To ask the Scottish Executive where members of the public can access its guidance to local authorities on the implementation of the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010.","AnswerText":"Scottish Government guidance to local authorities in relation to the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 can be accessed through the Scottish Government''s website at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/law/control-dogs. The Control of Dogs Act webpage was published ahead of the act coming into force. \r\n | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |