Give the Presiding Officer the power to compel MSPs to give an answer to all questions asked: that is, a direct reply that is relevant to the question. This should include a process for a deferred answer if an immediate answer cannot be given. This will improve public trust and engagement.
i agree that any questions asked in chamber should be answered publicly whether that be in writing or verbally. often a minister or cab sec will say i will write to the member but no-one else gets to see that response. i'm not sure how easy it would be to put a mechanism in place. something additionally with chamber desk? Giving the PO more powers to demand answers is a tricky area.
I think this would definitely build trust and it would also impact the tone of the debate if ministers knew they had to answer directly.
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