7. To ask the Scottish Government whether it plans to propose a parliamentary debate on the removal of nuclear weapons from Scotland, as proposed in its paper “Creating a modern constitution for an independent Scotland”. (S6O-02566)

As Mr Kidd knows, any proposals for Government business in Parliament are agreed by the Scottish cabinet, subject to consideration by the Parliamentary Bureau and, in turn, approval by the Parliament.

The Scottish Government’s fourth paper in the “Building a New Scotland” series, “Creating a modern constitution for an independent Scotland” was published on 19 June. The Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture then led a debate on that paper on 27 June.

I know that time is precious, and I might lodge a members’ motion on that issue, which I hope members from across the chamber will support.

When war is raging on Europe’s borders and the spectre of nuclear escalation is ever present, does the minister agree that it is not only time to have that debate here but across Europe and to start the journey to a nuclear weapons-free Europe, as has happened in areas across the globe? Would he be happy to support Scotland taking a lead on that journey?

Mr Kidd has been at the forefront of that debate for many years, and of course I agree that a nuclear-free world would be most welcome. It is entirely up to the member if he wishes to lodge a members’ motion. Our Parliament is made all the richer by the varied debate and discussion that we have during members’ business debates and what they bring to the Parliament.

The Deputy Presiding Officer:

That concludes portfolio questions on finance and parliamentary business. There will be a short pause before we move on to the next item of business.