1. Decision on taking business in private:

The Committee agreed to take item 4 in private.

2. The role of local government and its cross-sectoral partners in financing and delivering a net-zero Scotland (in private):

The Committee considered a draft report.

Various changes were agreed to, and the Committee agreed the report as amended. The Committee agreed a media strategy in relation to publication of the report including the embargo period and the date and time of publication.

3. Budget Scrutiny 2023-24:

The Committee took evidence on the Scottish Government's Budget 2023-24 from—

Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport and Simon Fuller, Deputy Director, Rural and Environmental Science and Analytical Services, Scottish Government;

Kerry Twyman, Director of Finance and Corporate Services, Transport Scotland.

In relation to forestry and land use, Edward Mountain declared an interest as a Partner in Delfur Farms Farming Partnership.

4. Budget Scrutiny 2023-24 (in private):

The Committee considered the evidence it heard earlier under agenda item 3.