§ Mr. Bill WalkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the means by which the Government ensure that Scottish interests are effectively represented in the institutions of the European Union. [8934]
§ Mr. Michael ForsythScottish interests are effectively represented to the institutions of the European Union by being incorporated into the view of the United Kingdom. I am able to ensure that this is the case by my attendance at Cabinet, and at Cabinet Committees which discuss UK policy on EU issues. In addition, Scottish Office Ministers attend Council meetings as part of the UK delegation and when matters relevant to my responsibilities as Secretary564W of State are discussed. As at 11 December, Scottish Office Ministers have attended 13 Councils during the current year.
Nominations by the Government have ensured that five of the total of 24 UK members of the Committee of the Regions serve in Scottish local authorities, that the current UK judge in the Court of Justice is Scottish, and that two members of the Economic and Social Committee are Scots. My hon. Friend will be aware that Scotland is already served by eight MEPs, of whom one is a Vice President of the European Parliament. These arrangements ensure that Scottish interests are effectively represented in the institutions, and the advisory committees, of the European Union.