§ Mr. AncramTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to meet representatives of CBI Scotland to discuss their participation in the development of the Scottish Parliament's consultative procedures. [28796]
§ Mr. McLeish[holding answer 19 February 1998]: My right hon. Friend and I have met representatives of CBI Scotland on a number of occasions in recent months to discuss a wide range of issues regarding the Scottish Parliament, including procedures for consulting business. The most recent meeting was on 30 January with my right hon. Friend. Further meetings are likely, but no dates have yet been fixed.
How the Scottish Parliament will work will be for the Scottish Parliament itself to determine. However, the all-party Consultative Steering Group which I chair will take forward consideration of this. The Group is keen to ensure that the views of interested bodies and individuals are taken into account in its deliberations. Should CBI Scotland wish to contribute to this process, the Group will be pleased to consider any submission which they may wish to make.