HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 18 JUNE, 2009 MSPs backed a Labour motion by 69 votes to 49 to welcome the Calman Commission's report into 10 years of devolution. Parliament unanimously agreed to note a committee report on Hybrid Bills, the general principles of the Arbitration (Scotland) Bill and the Holocaust (Return of Cultural Objects) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 24 JUNE, 2009 MSP passed, by assent, the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 18 JUNE, 2009 MSPs backed by assent a motion to pass the Convention Rights Proceedings (Scotland) Amendment Bill. A motion by Culture Minister Mike Russell recognising the success of Edinburgh's festival was also backed by assent. MSPs also backed by assent a motion agreeing to the proposal for a committee Bill on the report of the review of the Review of Scottish Parliament Corporate Body-supported Bodies Committee.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE, 2009 MSPs unanimously agreed the Scottish Local Government (Elections) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 11 JUNE, 2009 A Tory motion stating the interests of Scotland and the UK would be best served by an election "as soon as possible" for a new House of Commons was passed by 78 votes to 42 with no abstentions. A motion by Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham noting Scotland's achievement 18 months early of a 2010 target for diverting waste from landfill was passed by 79 votes to one with 39 abstentions. A Labour amendment saying a new national waste management plan must fully address prevention, re-use, recycling, recovery and disposal was passed by assent. A Tory amendment saying the issue of developing further waste infrastructure must be tackled as a priority to better tackle commercial and industrial waste was passed by 78 votes to 40 with two abstentions. A Liberal Democrat amendment arguing there were "serious concerns" over the ability of councils to meet their 2013 waste obligations, and saying the budget for recycling had been cut, was defeated by 64 votes to 56 with no abstentions. And a Green amendment saying there should no need for large-scale waste-to-energy plants to be built in Scotland was passed by 65 votes to 54 with no abstentions.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 10 JUNE, 2009 MSPs backed the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Bill by 121 votes to zero, with one abstention.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 3 JUNE, 2009 MSPs unanimously approved the Offences (Aggravation by Prejudice) (Scotland) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 28 MAY, 2009 MSPs agreed on a Lib Dem motion amended in the name of Labour's Richard Baker calling on the Scottish Government to work with the UK Government and to encourage Scottish police forces to collaborate with their UK and European counterparts to ensure that all missing children alert systems are operational as soon as possible and bind the country effectively into the European system. MSPs also voted 63-56 in favour of a Lib Dem motion, amended in the name of enterprise minister Jim Mather, to note the enhanced scale and impact of financial support to growing Scottish businesses from the recently announced Scottish Investment Bank. A Labour amendment calling for details of the bank to be brought forward was also agreed. MSPs also agreed to nominate Karen Carlton for reappointment for a second term as the Commissioner for Public Appointments in Scotland. MSPs also agreed a motion in the name of Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill recognising the positive opportunities and activities for over 100,000 young people in Scotland by Cashback for the Communities scheme. A Labour amendment that every effort should be made to ensure further progress in recovering assets from those who profit from crime was agreed, as well as a Lib Dem amendment calling for closer working and engagement between safer neighbourhood and community police teams.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 27 MAY, 2009 MSPs unanimously backed a Scottish Government motion praising the health boards and Health Protection Scotland for the success so far of the containment strategy for swine flu, and supporting the collaborative approach adopted "within Scotland and beyond" in minimising the spread of the infection.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 21 MAY, 2009 MSPs voted 69 to 49 in favour of a Labour motion calling for a cross-party approach to tackle student hardship and provide £7,000 in support for poorest students. A Labour motion calling for a new and revised economic recovery programme in light of job losses was unanimously supported. A Government amendment to establish the merits of a business support method in Wales was backed in a 103 to 15 vote. MSPs unanimously backed calls to note a new publication which aims to boost Scotland's fish farming industry. Labour, Liberal Democrat and Tory amendments noting the need for sustainable development, importance of rural jobs and need for training opportunities were also unanimously backed. The Scottish Parliament agreed that the provisions of the Coroners and Justice Bill, introduced in the House of Commons, which will allow inquiries to be carried out in Scotland into the death of service personnel overseas, should be determined by the UK Parliament.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 20 MAY, 2009 MSPs unanimously approved the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill. The legislation gives pupils with special needs extra support, giving parents of vulnerable children have the right to apply for a place in a school outside their catchment area.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 14 MAY, 2009 MSPs unanimously backed the general principles of the Scottish Local Government (Elections) Bill. And MSPs all supported a Scottish Government motion highlighting the importance of Scotland's relationship with America and Canada, which urged ministers to continue to develop a "joined up approach" with other bodies to ensure real benefits from activities such as Scotland Week. They also unanimously voted for a Labour amendment to that, stressing the "cultural diversity in a modern Scotland".
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 7 MAY, 2009 MPS agreed to the general principles of the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill. It was amended in the name of Labour's Sarah Boyack to back unambiguous quantified targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for the period between 2010 and 2019. They also agreed the financial memorandum of the Bill. MSPs also voted in favour of a Tory motion deploring the rise in school exclusions due to weapons attacks. It was amended by Labour's Ken Macintosh to back all appropriate measures to support teachers and by Lib Dem Margaret Smith calling on the Scottish Government to engage closely with pupils, staff, the voluntary sector and other partner organisations to improve formal and non-formal learning opportunities for young people to ensure that they are not excluded from education. MSPs also voted in favour of a Tory motion regretting the decision of the Scottish Government not to proceed with the establishment of a community court in Glasgow. It was amended by Labour's Richard Baker to state that Parliament believes the Government should reverse the decision and progress with plans in Glasgow and by Lib Dem Robert Brown to note the benefits from such a project.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 30 APRIL, 2009 MSPs backed an amended Government motion noting steps taken in the housing sector, including moves to accelerate and increase the supply of "affordable" homes, in a 108 to 16 vote. MSPs unanimously backed a Liberal Democrat amendment highlighting the need for high-quality low-cost housing.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 23 APRIL, 2009 MSPs voted in favour of a Labour motion recognising the threat to the Scottish economy from the current crisis facing Scotland's newspaper and media industries and opposing any moves towards compulsory redundancies such as those imposed by Trinity Mirror at the Daily Record and Sunday Mail. They also backed a Labour motion outlining the need for investment in transport infrastructure in the west of Scotland, particularly in the Greater Glasgow travel-to-work area. A Tory ammendment noting the previous Labour-led administration's disappointing record on delivering improvements to key road links connecting the west of Scotland, notably the substantial delays and cost overruns in upgrading the M8 and M74 was backed by MSPs. A Lib Dem ammendment welcoming the significant opportunity presented by the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games for the creation of legacy transport infrastructure projects in the west of Scotland was also backed by MSPs. A Government motion on the legacy plan for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games welcoming the forthcoming meeting Sports Minister Shona Robison and UK Sports Secretary Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy and Glasgow City Council leader Steven Purcell to discuss the release of a substantial sum of National Lottery funding towards supporting a legacy was agreed. A Labour ammendment welcoming the new spirit of co-operation and calling on the Scottish Government to work with the UK Government to maximise the benefit of sporting events in Scotland and the wider United Kingdom, like the 2014 Commonwealth Games and 2012 Olympic Games was agreed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL, 2009 MSPs unanimously agreed changes to standing orders affecting the Scottish Parliamentary Pensions Act, cut-off date for Members' Bills and equal opportunities work of committees. They agreed to nominate Tam Baillie to the Queen for the post of Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland. MSPs then agreed to note the conclusions and recommendations of the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee report on high-speed rail.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 2 APRIL, 2009 MSPs backed Scottish Government motions on waiting times and anti-social behaviour. On waiting times, the Government motion welcomed the recent progress that had been made. A Labour amendment, calling on the Government in ensure sufficient resources to bring NHSScotland in line with England, where a "whole journey" waiting time standard of 18 weeks has already been delivered, was backed by 92 votes to 31. A Tory amendment, stressing that patient care should "not be jeopardised by attempts to meet centrally determined targets" was defeated 31 votes to 91 with one abstention. And a Liberal Democrat amendment stating "maximum waiting times should ultimately be at the discretion of clinicians to protect those with the greatest clinical need" was also defeated by 31 votes to 89 with three abstentions. The Government motion, as amended, was then passed by 91 votes to 16 with 15 abstentions. On anti-social behaviour the Government motion stressed that prevention was better than cure when tackling this problem. A Labour amendment, which called for access to legal remedies to anti-social behaviour to be widened for communities to tackle problems in their areas, was rejected by 44 votes to 79. A Tory amendment, highlighting the "wealth of good practice" in some areas and stressing the importance of replicating this, was passed by 79 votes to 44. A Liberal Democrat amendment which stated "increased community involvement and empowerment" were vital components in tackling anti-social behaviour, was also passed by 63 to 58 with two abstentions. The Government motion, as amended, was then carried by 79 votes to 44.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 1 APRIL, 2009 MSPs unanimously agreed to appoint Stuart Allan as the new Scottish Parliamentary Standards Commissioner. They also all agreed to note the recommendations of the Finance Committee's report into methods of funding capital investment projects.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 25 MARCH, 2009 MSPs backed a local government finance order freeing up £70m to compensate councils for the council tax freeze by 99 votes in favour to none against and 14 abstentions. A motion nominating Jim Martin to be appointed Scottish Public Services Ombudsman was backed by assent. And two motions by the Standards Committee on changes to the code of conduct for MSPs were backed by assent, and a third was passed by 100 for, eight against, and two abstentions.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 19 MARCH, 2009 MSPs agreed a Labour motion backing the Government's decision to drop proposals for leasing up to 25% of the Forestry Commission estate for a period of 75 years and called on the Scottish Government to bring forward its review of the operation of the Scotland Rural Development. It was amended in the name of environment minister Roseanna Cunningham to note that the Forestry Commission makes a major contribution to the economy of Scotland. An ammendment by Tory John Scott so that all forestry proposals in future must be part of an integrated land-use strategy was also agreed, along with an amendment by Lib Dem Jim Hume for the Government to introduce a comprehensive sustainable land-use strategy. MSPs also agreed a Labour motion that the Scottish Government must ensure that there are 17,265 full-time equivalent police officers by March 2011, for the SNP's stated manifesto pledge for 1,000 more police officers to be met. A Government ammendment noting that a police force projection study showed that police officer numbers will have increased by more than 1,000 by this time was voted down, along with a Lib Dem ammendment noting that the Government was forced by opposition parties and public opinion to firm up its commitment. MSPs also agreed a motion welcoming the publication of the Scottish Government's strategic framework for science, Science for Scotland. An amendment in the name of Lib Dem Alison McInnes calling on ministers to improve the participation and employment of women in the science sector was agreed, while MSPs voted 77-46 in favour of a Tory motion noting concern that some secondary schools in Scotland are reducing the availability of SQA Highers and Advanced Higher courses in science subjects. A Labour amendment that it is vital Scotland remains an integral part of the UK science base was voted down 64-58 by MSPs. A legislative consent motion on the relevant provisions of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Bill, introduced in the House of Lords earlier this year, relating to the power of detention for individuals subject to an outstanding arrest warrant and their enforcement was voted through 118-2.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH, 2009 MSPs unanimously backed the principles of the Offences (Aggravation by Prejudice) (Scotland) Bill at stage one.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 12 MARCH, 2009 MSPs voted 98-16 in favour of passing the Damages (Asbestos-related Conditions) (Scotland) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH, 2009 MSPs voted by 72 to 47, with one abstention, to call on the Scottish Government to abandon plans for a Referendum Bill on independence. The amendment was added to a Labour motion noting "broken" SNP election promises, which was passed in a 72 to 47 vote with one abstention. MSPs then voted by 62 to 16, with 41 abstentions, to back a response by the Local Government and Communities Committee on the proposed national planning framework. The motion was amended by Labour calls to include a high-speed rail link in a list of planning priorities. MSPs voted 64 to 14, with 42 abstentions, in favour of Tory calls to remove references to technology in the framework. They voted 65 to 54, with one abstention, to note that the framework does not support construction of new nuclear power stations in Scotland. Parliament unanimously backed a legislative consent motion on the UK Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH, 2009 MSPs agreed the general principles of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Bill. MSPs also agreed that provisions in the Policing and Crime Bill, introduced to the House of Commons on 18 December 18 2008, relating to football banning orders, extradition and the proceeds of crime, where these matters fall within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament or alter the executive competence of the Scottish ministers, should be considered by the UK Parliament.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 26 FEBRUARY, 2009 MSPs unanimously passed the Disabled Persons Parking Places (Scotland) Bill. A Scottish Government motion noting commitment to deliver a Marine Bill was unanimously agreed. It was amended with Tory calls to consider interests on commercial fisheries, Lib Dem calls to ensure the bill proceeds quickly and Green environmental concerns.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 25 FEBRUARY, 2009 MSPs agreed to note evidence gathered by the equal opportunities committee on unpaid carers and recognise the valuable contribution that unpaid carers make in saving the Scottish economy £7.6bn a year and calls on the Scottish Government to take this evidence into consideration when developing the forthcoming carers strategy. MSPs also agreed to note the conclusions and recommendations in the justice committee's report on its inquiry into community policing. They also voted 99-15 in favour of designating the economy, energy and tourism committee as the lead committee in consideration of the Arbitration (Scotland) Bill at Stage 1.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 12 FEBRUARY, 2009 Holyrood Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson was tonight called upon to use his casting vote after a series of votes on hospital infections ended in deadlock. MSPs backed by 79 to 45 with three abstentions a Scottish Government amendment to a Labour motion, setting out the work they were doing to tackle such infections, and pledging to report regularly to the Parliament on the progress being made. And a Liberal Democrat amendment calling for a public inquiry into the outbreak of Clostridium difficile at the Vale of Leven Hospital was also passed by 63 votes to 62 with two abstentions. However when the motion, as amended, was put to the vote, MSPs were tied at 63 votes to 63. Mr Fergusson then used his casting vote, explaining to MSPs he would "as always" in such situations vote against the motion, which was then defeated. MSPs unanimously backed a Labour motion calling on the government to ensure the "urgent and effective implementation" of accelerated money for housing. A Conservative amendment calling on the administration to engage with local authorities "with a view to effecting stock transfers" of council housing was defeated 33 votes to 94. MSPs unanimously agreed the general principles of the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Bill. And they backed by 48 votes to zero with 79 abstentions that Roseanna Cunningham, Alex Neil and Keith Brown be appointed junior Scottish ministers.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY, 2009 MSPs approved the Local Government Finance Act 1992 (Scotland) Order 2009 by 99 votes to one, with 15 abstentions. They also unanimously supported a motion of condolence following the death of SNP MSP Bashir Ahmad.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY, 2009 MSPs backed, by 66 votes to zero with 56 abstentions, a Liberal Democrat motion stating borrowing powers would enhance the Scottish Parliament's accountability and would improve the government's ability to respond to changing economic circumstances. A Labour amendment, welcoming the examination of the use of borrowing powers and the government's willingness to engage with the Calman Commission was defeated by 42 votes to 80. And a Conservative amendment noting that the Calman Commission was considering other powers and calling on the government to confirm it will permit civil servants to engage with the Commission on all matters, was also defeated by 16 votes to 64 with 42 abstentions. A Liberal Democrat motion calling for the urgent formation of a finance sector jobs tasks force was unanimously backed. MSPs unanimously supported a Labour amendment which called for continued workforce representation at meetings of the Financial Services Advisory Board. And a Conservative amendment, which said reports should include figures on the number of direct and indirect jobs in the financial sector, was also agreed by MSPs. A government motion noting the publication of the early years framework and its vision for "giving children the best start in life" was unanimously agreed. A Labour amendment stating the number of qualified nursery teachers employed in Scotland had fallen was defeated by 45 votes to 61 with 16 abstentions. And a Tory amendment calling for the early years framework to have greater emphasis on the development of parenting skills was supported by all MSPs. A Liberal Democrat amendment highlighting the role of external agencies and the voluntary sectorin early years was also unanimously agreed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 4 FEBRUARY, 2009 MSPs backed, by 123 votes to 2, the third and final stage of the Budget (Scotland) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 29 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs rejected a Scottish Government amendment on transport priorities. A Labour motion noted the lack of detail on timescales in the government's strategic transport projects review and highlighted the concern of some communities that no indication had been given about when road improvements would be carried out. The government amendment to that, which said the administration was engaging with local communities to "deliver solutions to a range of transport infrastructure issues" was defeated by 46 votes to 75 with three abstentions. A Tory amendment which called on ministers to prioritise transport projects was passed by 121 votes to two, with one abstention. And a Liberal Democrat amendment, adding the A90 to a list of roads where communities were concerned that no indication had been given on when road improvements would be carried out, was also passed by 75 votes to 46 with three abstentions. The Labour motion, as amended, was then backed by 75 to 48 with one abstention. MSPs also backed a heavily amended Labour motion on forestry policy. The Labour motion said there was "widespread and clearly expressed public concern" about the possible impact of government plans to lease out parts of the forestry estate. But the government amendment, which was approved by 62 votes to 61 with one abstention, noted that their consultation on climate change and forestry had just closed and looked forward to the outcome of that. That result meant a Liberal Democrat amendment which stated the leasing option had been "drawn up without considering the impact on rural and remote communities" fell. MSPs also backed by 80 votes to 42 with one abstention a Tory amendment to the government amendment, which called for detailed parliamentary scrutiny of any proposals that are brought forward as a result of the consultation. In a confirmatory vote the Labour motion, as amended, was passed by 62 votes to 61 with one abstention. A government motion recognising that Gaelic is "an integral part of Scotland's heritage, national identity and current cultural life" and welcoming the launch of the consultation on the Gaelic Language Plan was unanimously agreed. A Labour amendment welcoming the boost to Gaelic provided by BBC Alba and calling for continuing investment in Gaelic medium education was also unanimously backed by MSPs.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs rejected the Budget (Scotland) (No.2) Bill The £33bn spending plans for 2009-10 fell on the casting vote of the presiding officer after being tied at 64 votes to 64.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 23 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs agreed the Scottish Parliamentary Pensions Bill. MSPs also voted 98-2 in favour of a Government motion noting the recommendations made in the first annual report of the Scottish Council of Economic Advisers and ministers' response in the context of Government action to help businesses and households, support jobs and investment. A Labour amendment calling on the Scottish Government to establish a formal link between the Council of Economic Advisers and the National Economic Forum was agreed, and MSPs voted 98-18 in favour of a Tory amendment noting the commitment to an independent assessment of the full economic costs and abatement potential of the various energy options - including nuclear power. A Lib Dem ammendment calling for the Elgin bypass to be included in the Government's transport infrastructure investment plan was voted down 48-15. The general principles of the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Bill were also agreed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 22 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs backed a Scottish Government motion on the Common Agricultural Policy which stated future decisions on this must "reflect the distinctiveness of agriculture in Scotland". Holyrood unanimously agreed a Labour amendment which called on Scottish ministers to work with their Westminster counterparts to ensure the UK's negotiating strategy delivered the "right framework for rural Scotland" and also for the continuation of a bull hire scheme. And a Conservative amendment, stressing that greater levels of food production and increased self sufficiency were becoming increasingly important and therefore calling on policy makers to work towards future support being linked to active farming, was also backed unanimously. A Liberal Democrat amendment calling on Scottish Government to urgently resolve problems with the operation and implementation of the Scotland Rural Development Programme was agreed by 53 votes to two, with 62 abstentions. But a Green amendment accepting a European Parliament decision that new controls needed to be placed on the use of agricultural chemicals was rejected by three votes to 76 with 37 abstentions. In a confirmatory vote MSPs unanimously agreed the government motion as mended.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 15 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs unanimously agreed to the general principles of the Health Boards (Membership and Elections) (Scotland) Bill. They also backed a Liberal Democrat amendment calling for proposals to improve public participation in health board elections. The amendment said the agreement should not pre-empt any later decision on taking health board elections nationwide. A government motion noting the choice of funding for a new Forth crossing without tolls was backed in a 121-2 vote. A Tory amendment calling on Scottish and UK governments to work together to make sure the bridge is delivered quickly was unanimously backed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 14 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs agreed the general principles of the Budget (Scotland) Bill in a 107-16 vote with one abstention.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 8 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs backed a government motion supporting the year of Homecoming, adding Tory calls for a tourism database and Liberal Democrat calls for more details on the SNP's plans to promote the events. The Scottish Parliament backed a government motion expressing concern over the loss of lives in Gaza and called for a ceasefire. MSPs supported the government's offender management plans in a 62 to 57 vote. A Lib Dem amendment was passed in a 62 to 56 vote adding calls for effective action to tackle the underlying causes of crime and importance of judicial independence.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 7 JANUARY, 2009 MSPs voted unanimously to recognise the importance of developing new national school qualifications in line with the aims of the Curriculum for Excellence. Parliament also voted unanimously for a Tory amendment highlighting the need for pupils to be tested in literacy and numeracy by primary seven. A Liberal Democrat amendment was backed unanimously to recognise the funding, resourcing and training implications of the move. A Labour amendment noting concern at a lack of clarity of the Curriculum for Excellence and calling for greater leadership by the education secretary Fiona Hyslop was defeated by a 63 votes to 42, with 16 abstentions.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 18 DECEMBER, 2008 MSPs voted 66-1 in favour of a Scottish Government motion calling on the UK Government to reduce the drink-drive limit from 80mg to 50mg in line with much of Europe. A Labour amendment calling for Scottish ministers to engage with the UK Government's consultation on road safety, which includes an invitation for views on the drink-driving limit, amended by Tory Bill Aitken to recognise the growing problem of drivers under the influence of drugs, was defeated 61-55. MSPs also agreed to a government motion accepting the second report of the UK organ donation taskforce and note in particular that the move to a system of opt-out should be reviewed again in five years' time in light of the progress with implementation of the recommendations in the taskforce's first report.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 17 DECEMBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously agreed to note the Finance Committee's report on the Scottish Government's draft budget 2009-10 and to refer the report and its recommendations to the Scottish Government for consideration.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER, 2008 MSPs agreed the standards, procedures and public appointments committee's report on elections to the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body and agreed the changes to standing orders set out in Annexe A. They also agreed the same committee's report Audit Committee - Title and Remit and agreed the changes to standing orders set out in Annexe A, changing its name to the public audit committee. MSPs also agreed that the draft Protection of Charities Assets (Exemption) and the Charity Test (Specified Bodies) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2008 be approved. They also agreed that the draft Fundable Bodies (Scotland) Order 2008 be approved.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 4 DECEMBER, 2008 MSPs backed a Tory amendment on local government taxation. They supported, by 65 votes to 60, the Conservative motion which called for all options, including reform of the council tax, to be considered when the Scottish Government introduces legislation to reform local government taxation. A government amendment, which said the council tax was "discredited" and that a local income tax based on ability to pay was a fairer system, was defeated by 60 votes to 65. And a Liberal Democrat amendment stressing the need for further consideration of "a system of local taxation that includes local variety" was also defeated by 61 votes to 64. MSPs also backed a Tory motion on broadcasting by 75 votes to 49. The Conservative motion called on Ofcom to "explore all options to ensure that there is public service broadcasting competition for BBC Scotland in the nation's rapidly changing broadcasting landscape". A Liberal Democrat amendment, stating that all Scottish residents should have access to the full range of broadcasting following the digital switchover, was passed by 74 votes to one, with 49 abstentions. And a government motion which said forced marriages were a "form of violence against women" which have no place in Scotland was unanimously agreed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 26 NOVEMBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously agreed the general principles of the Disabled Persons' Parking Places (Scotland) Bill. They also unanimously backed the financial resolution for the Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 20 NOVEMBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously backed a Scottish Government motion challenging services to offer "the best possible childhoods" to youngsters in care. A Labour amendment calling on the Government to make a statement on the HM Inspectorate of Education report into child protection services in Aberdeen was also agreed unanimously. And a Liberal Democrat amendment to Labour's amendment, calling for the Government to work with councils and others so that child protection practices are kept under "immediate and continuous review" was agreed by all MSPs. A Scottish Government motion supporting the continued development of a "growing" Scottish aquaculture industry was unanimously supported. MSPs then agreed a Labour amendment that the renewed aquaculture strategy must be consistent with the forthcoming Marine Bill and the EU Water Framework Directive. A Conservative amendment calling for serious consideration of measures aimed at reducing the likelihood of the Gyrodactylus salaris parasite entering Scotland was agreed unanimously. And a Liberal Democrat amendment calling on the Scottish Government to streamline the regulatory burden, introduce a fair inspection regime, improve community and industry liaison, and encourage the development and retention of a skilled, qualified workforce in the aquaculture industry was also backed by all MSPs.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 19 NOVEMBER, 2008 An SNP motion arguing that Westminster's plans for an ID card scheme would neither increase security nor deter crime, and would have "serious" civil liberties implications, was passed with 69 votes in favour, none against, and 38 abstentions. A Liberal Democrat amendment calling on Westminster to heed public opinion and cancel "this wasteful government folly" was passed by 68 votes in favour, none against, and 38 abstentions. A Tory amendment saying the money could instead be spend on areas like policing or improving border policing was passed by 68 votes in favour to one against with 38 abstentions.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 13 NOVEMBER, 2008 MSPs voted 90-15 in favour of a motion by Labour's Sarah Boyack recognising the significant role that energy efficiency and "microgeneration" measures can have in reducing energy costs for householders and businesses and achieving urgent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions of at least 80% by 2050. It was amended by the Greens to call on the Government to consider fully funded Scotland-wide energy audits, insulation provision and financial support for "micro-renewables". They also voted 65-41 in favour of a Labour motion, amended by the Government which recognised that the NHS has received a fair share of the financial settlement and that the Scottish Government is increasing spending on health in Scotland and further recognises that the NHS should strive to make sure that resources are spent as efficiently as possible. MSPs also voted 64-56 in favour of a Government motion, amended by the Tories, which noted efforts to promote collaboration among public authorities and agencies in planning and developing capital projects to maximise value for money, and calls on the Scottish Government to ensure that the Scottish Futures Trust makes a full contribution to these objectives. MSPs also agreed provisions of the UK Energy Bill in Part 2 (Electricity From Renewable Sources - the Renewables Obligation), introduced in the House of Commons.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 12 NOVEMBER, 2008 MSPs tonight an amended Scottish Government motion on the economy. Parliament voted by 63 to 53 with two abstentions in favour of a Conservative amendment which stated the current recession was partly down to "mismanagement of the economy by the present UK Government" and which welcomed the council tax freeze in Scotland and cuts in rates for small firms. A Labour amendment which called for adult apprenticeship funding for all sectors and for local income tax plans to be ditched was defeated by 40 votes to 75 with three abstentions. And a Liberal Democrat amendment calling for a 2p reduction in income tax in Scotland was also rejected by 13 votes to 105. The Scottish Government motion, as amended, was then passed by 62 votes to 53 with three abstentions. MSPs unanimously agreed the general principles of the Scottish Parliamentary Pensions Bill, along with the financial resolution for the Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 5 NOVEMBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously backed the general principles of the Damages (Asbestos-related Conditions) (Scotland) Bill at stage one. A Tory amendment calling for further analysis of the cost implications was also supported unanimously. MSPs then unanimously backed the financial resolution to the proposed Act.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY, 29 OCTOBER, 2008 MSPs backed, by 65 votes to 30 with 16 abstentions, a Scottish Government motion on the British-Irish Council supporting a proposal by Scottish ministers to lead work on renewable energy. A Labour amendment which would have changed the wording to encouraging Scottish ministers to "work in cooperation with all members of the council" was defeated by 65 votes to 46.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY, 9 OCTOBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously backed the Scottish Register of Tartans Bill. Members also agreed to note the conclusions and recommendations of the Local Government and Communities Committee's report on the 2007 elections.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY, 8 OCTOBER, 2008 MSPs agreed a government motion welcoming the Scottish Broadcasting Commission's final report and its the key recommendation for the creation of a new public service Scottish digital network and noting the commission's recommendations require action by a range of parties. A Labour amendment stating that Scotland should not lose out on the advantages of being part of the UK broadcasting network was voted through 68-44, while A Lib Dem motion was agreed which voiced concerns over proposals contained within Phase 2 of Ofcom's Second Public Service Broadcasting Review, which present a serious threat to the long-term viability of Scottish public service broadcasters, of Borders news programmes and of Scottish content programming and Gaelic language programmes on Channel 3. A Tory amendment calling for private sector input to the funding model for the new channel was voted down 60-16.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY, 2 OCTOBER, 2008 MSPs voted 68-34 in favour of calling on the Scottish Government to publish in detail, prior to the introduction of a council tax abolition Bill, how it proposes to allocate to each local authority local income tax revenues. An addition, an amendment in the name of Finance Secretary John Swinney that council tax benefit money forms an integral part of local government finance and should be available to local government, was passed 65-38. An amendment by Labour's Andy Kerr that indicative figures be provided for each local authority for the first year of operation of local income tax was agreed. MSPs also voted 72-47 to reject that the Scottish Government's proposals to raise the age limit for purchasing alcohol from off-licences and supermarkets from 18 to 21. A proposed amendment by justice secretary Kenny MacAskill welcoming the consultation on the proposals was rejected 72- 47. A government motion supporting the Scudamore report's conclusions on Scotland's handling of the 2007 foot and mouth disease outbreak, contained in Foot and Mouth Disease Review (Scotland) 2007, was voted through 64-38 by MSPs, after a Labour amendment on the role of abattoirs and the Scottish islands. A Tory amendment noting the continued economic impact of the outbreak on Scotland's beef, sheep and pig farmers and a Lib Dem amendment that the devolution settlement has largely been a success for Scottish agriculture were all passed.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER, 2008 MSPs unanimously backed a motion from independent MSP Margo MacDonald, calling for a "substantial sum" of Lottery funding to be released to support coaching programmes and ensure a legacy from the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. They then unanimously agreed a Labour amendment noting the role of community and voluntary organisations in delivering this legacy. Parlilament also unanimously passed the Judiciary and Courts (Scotland) Bill.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER, 2008 A motion by Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead, welcoming the publication of the Scottish Government consultation on the less favoured area support scheme, was passed by 78 votes to 37 with one abstention. A Tory amendment condemning the Westminster Government policy of ending direct support for Scottish producers after 2013 was passed by 79 votes to 37. A Labour amendment urging the Scottish Government to simplify the rural development programme application process, clarify decision-making, and set targets for locally-sourced produce in public sector food procurement, was defeated by 62 votes to 54. A Liberal Democrat amendment urging the Scottish Government to speed up payments under the Less Favoured Area scheme was defeated by 64 votes to 52. MSPs also agreed to note the findings of a report by the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee on boosting tourism revenues by 50% by 2015.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON WEDNESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER, 2008 MSPs agreed to note the conclusions and recommendations of an inquiry into international development by the Scottish Parliament's European and External Relations Committee.
HOLYROOD VOTE ON THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER, 2008 MSPs voted 62-2 in favour of a motion supporting the case made by families of Clostridium difficile hospital bug victims at Vale of Leven hospital for a public inquiry, noting ministers could instruct such an inquiry and acknowledging the need for wider lessons to be learned throughout the NHS. It also noted that the case has been referred to the Crown Office and procurator fiscal office. An amendment in the name of health secretary Nicola Sturgeon removing Parliament's support for the case for the inquiry was defeated by 64-63. MSPs also voted 77-49 in favour of a Labour motion citing concern over the growing number of newly-qualified teachers unable to secure permanent work and noting that it came at a time of rising class sizes. A Tory amendment calling on Education Secretary Fiona Hyslop to make a statement to parliament on the issue after a report from the Teacher Employment working group was received was agreed. A Lib Dem amendment pointing out the SNP policy of reducing class sizes in P1-3 to 18 is in utter chaos was backed 77-47.
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