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The Scottish Government uses a range of evidence in its assessment of the future energy system. The whole-system modelling produced by Energy Systems Catapult and which underpins the draft Energy Strategy was completed before the publication of the UNECE report, and was therefore not informed by the UNECE findings.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study considers the potential contribution nuclear can make as a dispatchable low-carbon technology.

The report states: “The fundamental problem is cost. Other generation technologies have become cheaper in recent decades, while new nuclear plants have only become costlier.”

As set out in our draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan, rather than new nuclear, it is significant growth in renewables, such as wind power, as well as investment in storage, hydrogen and carbon capture which will provide the best pathway for Scotland to achieve net zero by 2045.

In response to part (a), the Scottish Government will update Parliament on the review of NHS Scotland properties suspected to contain reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) when appropriate.

In response to part (b), the Scottish Government will liaise with NHS Scotland Assure and relevant Health Boards affected by RAAC about communications to members of the public.

I refer the member to the answer to question S5O-04795 on 26 November 2020, the official report can be viewed at Meeting of the Parliament: 26/11/2020 | Scottish Parliament Website

As previously confirmed in the Chamber, a review of the arrangements in place for provision of financial support for patient travel will be undertaken. The review will consider the scope and arrangements for provision of financial support for patient travel across Scotland, where such travel is necessary.

Regrettably, the review has been delayed due to ongoing prioritisation of the recovery of services. It will be taken forward as soon as possible, taking full account of the matters raised by Members.

Business continuity plans cannot be prepared until completion of the discovery surveys of NHS Scotland properties suspected to contain reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete. The outcomes of the discovery surveys will be used to inform business continuity plans by any affected Health Boards.

Details are as follows:

Scottish Government has not had any discussion with Glasgow City Council regarding the reopening of The Lighthouse in Glasgow.

In 2019 there were 23,584 adults with learning disability known to local authorities across Scotland, 956 (4.1%) were in employment, 10,483 (44.4%) were not in employment and 12,145 (51.5%) did not have their employment status recorded. Learning-Disability-Statistics-Scotland-2019.pdf (scld.org.uk)

The ONS Annual Population Survey (APS) is the official source for measuring the number of people in employment. Estimates for the number of people with a severe or specific learning difficulty (lasting 12 months or more) who are employed can also be obtained from the APS. Learning disabilities are included in the health problem severe and specific learning difficulty. In 2022, it was estimated that there were 13,100 people aged 16 and over who reported having a severe or specific learning difficulty and were in employment.

Fixed Penalty Notices are issued to individuals rather than businesses. There were 106 individuals offered a Fixed Penalty Notice between 26 May 2020 and 30 June 2022, a number of these individuals were offered more than one. The total value of fines paid was £224,000.

Following the appearance of the Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport at the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee on 9 May, the Scottish Government intends to provide a further update to the Committee in early July. The Scottish Government has also agreed to provide an updated Financial Memorandum to the Finance and Public Administration Committee at least 4 weeks before the Stage 1 debate.