Recommendation 36

As noted above, the working practices adopted by the Committee have played a crucial role in its ability to deliver robust scrutiny and impactful work. We therefore recommend that our successor takes a similar approach, including:
Embedding a culture where effective, constructive collaboration and consensus amongst Members delivers robust and effective scrutiny and a strong reputation for impactful outcomes.
Striving to take decisions unanimously wherever possible.
No pre-scripted questions from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) or the clerks, to enable Members to build up their own knowledge and expertise and provide more opportunities for Members to follow their own lines of questioning.
A strong preference for ‘in-person’ attendance by Members and witnesses wherever possible.
Effective leadership from the Convener, including fairness and protecting the interests of all Committee members to scrutinise effectively.
Allowing Members during evidence the time to develop a narrative and lines of questioning.
Appointing advisers to support specific pieces of work such as on public administration issues, as well as a budget adviser to support its financial scrutiny throughout the session.