Seòmar agus comataidhean

Other members might want to come in on that point. Earlier, we talked about thresholds, but, in the evidence that the committee has received, there has been quite a consensus on the importance of sites of community significance. It is not a case of saying, “Here’s a threshold. Either you fit within it or you don’t,” because there are sites that are of huge significance to communities, particularly rural communities, so it is important to provide for the local context. Calum, do you want to comment on that?

Thank you.

The Government said in July that discussions between you and BAE about the frigate programme were in their final stages, but it is now almost December.

What are the themes of barriers? Are they caused by sign-offs or technical specifications?

I appreciate that, and I think that every member of the committee wishes you well. We want to see the business expand and grow in the future.

I want to ask about subcontracting more generally. David Tydeman said at the time that 801 and 802 were more complex than a type-26 frigate; I do not know whether you agree or disagree with that.

Is there something about the size of yard and the expertise that you have, and your place in the market, that points towards subcontracting or building smaller vessels being more of an opportunity for the business in the future than very complex bespoke engineering contracts like 801 and 802?

Calum MacLeod, do you have any thoughts? Was anything missing from the bill? Did anything surprise you?

Yes. Thanks.

I do not know whether any such cases have come up, so I am not sure whether the fine is a deterrent.

I wish to ask about those who can allege a breach of a land management plan. Malcolm, you are saying that there is

“a closed list of who can clype on the owner of a large land holding if there is thought to be a breach”.

Do you think that the current balance in the bill is correct? Are there pros and cons in having a bigger list or a smaller list?