To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S2W-15876 by Mr Tom McCabe on 25 April 2005 and given the requirement for confidentiality of discussions on EU matters between it and the UK Government as set out in article 19 of the Memorandum of Understanding, what opportunity the Parliament has for scrutinising work of the Executive on EU matters, such as submissions to European Commission consultations made by it through the UK Government.

Scottish Executive ministers and officials are subject to full scrutiny by the Parliament on European Union issues. I recently appeared before the European and External Relations Committee to give evidence on Scotland’s contribution to the G8 summit and the UK Presidency of the EU.

Complete confidentiality is, however, often essential in formulating a UK negotiating position in the EU and in developing tactical responses. The arrangements for the Executive’s involvement in the UK decision-making process rely on mutual respect for the confidentiality of information exchanged. This may include submissions to European Commission consultations made by the Executive through the UK Government.