Orkney Enterprise chairman Brian Kynoch is taking over MSP Jim Wallace's seat in the Scottish Parliament for a day - for a key debate on business in Scotland.

The Orkney MSP has invited Mr Kynoch to join the Parliamentary proceedings as a leading member of the islands' business community.

"I'm delighted to take up the challenge," Mr Kynoch said. "It's quite a daunting prospect, but a great opportunity to get the Orkney perspective across."

He will take over Mr Wallace's back bench seat at the Holyrood Parliament for a ministerial question-time session.

The debate, on Friday, September 9, is part of a two-day conference on the challenges facing business in Scotland.

MSPs from across the country have each nominated business men and women to take their place in the Parliament.

Now Mr Kynoch is looking for the views of his "constituents" as he develops his "brief" for the debate.

"I'm looking for a broad portfolio of views and questions to take with me," he said. "I want to be as fully briefed as possible so the perspective from Orkney is heard loud and clear during what look certain to be wide ranging discussions."

He hopes to have the opportunity to raise the transport issues facing the islands, the need across the islands for a skilled and flexible workforce, the roll out of Broadband in Orkney, and the challenges the emerging renewables sector faces. 

"Those are just some of the discussion topics I hope to be able to influence," Mr Kynoch added. "I'm sure there will be many more as the debate unfolds - that's why it's so important I hear from individuals, businesses and organisations before I set off for Edinburgh."

The Business in Parliament Conference is designed to promote growth in the Scottish economy.

The aim is to discuss the Executive's current and planned initiatives and allow the nation's business community to influence the policy debate.

As well as the ministerial question-time in the main Debating Chamber, the business leaders will have the opportunity to share a wealth of views and ideas during special key-topic discussion groups held in the Parliament's Committee Rooms.

Jim Wallace said: "I hope this will provide an opportunity for Brian Kynoch to make sure the islands' perspective is raised during this important conference."

To pass on your views and questions for the debate, you can contact Mr Kynoch on 01856 872540 or brian@dagkynoch.co.uk