Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee, 24 Oct 2007

Meeting date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Official Report 214KB pdf

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European Union (Legislation and Policy)

The last item before 11 o'clock is the legislative and policy developments of the European Union, and there are plenty of them. Given the size of the European Union and its outputs, the clerks have provided a commendably brief paper on what the EU is currently doing. We might not wish to discuss treaties or constitutions, as they will be subject to consideration from a Scottish perspective—quite rightly—by our European and External Relations Committee. No doubt that committee will draw to our attention anything that falls within our remit. If I read my newspapers correctly, the subject will be discussed ad nauseam in the House of Commons over the coming period.

Perhaps colleagues have comments on the paper. I noticed at paragraph 10 a comment about

"the development of a single European Community quality mark for tourist accommodation".

That fills me with dread. However, I might have misinterpreted totally what it means. As a former sheep farmer, I think of European inspectors looking at every bed and breakfast throughout Scotland, but I am sure that that will not be the case and that my perspective is unfair.

As there are no further comments or questions, I take it that the paper has been noted and agreed.

I suggest a suspension and ask that we are all back here at 5 minutes to 11 in time for the evidence from Sir George Mathewson.

Meeting suspended.

On resuming—