Meeting of the Parliament

Note: This meeting contains Gaelic language and English interpreted audio. The default audio channel ('und') will feature speeches made in Gaelic. To listen to English interpreted audio: 1. Click on the ellipsis button in the video player controls 2. Click on und (und) 3. Click on en (en) 4. Click the ellipsis button again to close the player settings Some of this debate may take place in Scots. To assist your understanding you can find translations for Scots words here: dsl.ac.uk Time for Reflection Professor Rowan Cruft, Professor of Philosophy, University of Stirling followed by Topical Questions Claire Baker S6T-02099 1. To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on what discussions it has had with Harland & Wolff regarding the future of its construction yards at Methil and Arnish. Sue Webber S6T-02095 2. To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to the recent independent inquiry, carried out by Vicky Ling, into the Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre and the subsequent resignation of its chief executive, Mridul Wadhwa. followed by Stage 1 Debate: Scottish Languages Bill Kate Forbes S6M-14484 That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Scottish Languages Bill. followed by Decision Time followed by Members' Business — S6M-13753 Audrey Nicoll: Celebrating the Federation of Small Businesses' 50th Anniversary That the Parliament congratulates the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) on celebrating its 50th anniversary on 15 September 2024; understands that micro and small businesses comprise almost all enterprises in Scotland, at 98% of the total, and employ 900,000 people with a turnover of £82 billion; further understands that, since its formation in 1974 in response to what it sees as unfair increases in national insurance for the self-employed by the UK Government, which was later repealed, the FSB has gone on to become the largest direct business membership organisation in the UK, and recognises what it considers the vital non-profit, non-party-political business services that it offers, including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful advocating voice to government at all levels, as well as its aim to achieve changes for 5.5 million small businesses and the self-employed.