I thank Paul McLennan for giving me the opportunity to emphasise the importance of colleges in supporting people in their learning journeys and making sure that we fulfil the skills need in our economy. The geographic differentiation of that skills need will become even more important in the period ahead. I look forward to engaging with the member and all those who have an interest in expanding and enhancing the offer appropriately for the need in their communities, and to working with local authorities, members and the bodies involved.

We have huge potential; there is great learning, and tens of thousands of our young and older people are achieving well through our colleges. I look forward to continuing to support our colleges by working with Colleges Scotland and individual institutions.