The Environment and Sustainability Committee were listening to evidence from large energy companies on its inquiry into the energy planning and policy, on 3 November 2011.
They say that is because the scope of the inquiry is so large - in relation to the number of people testifying and the number of institutions who may be affected by the allegations.
Det Sgt Colin McKenzie told the court that Ms Spence had been under investigation by the SCDEA for mortgage fraud involving large numbers of the Chinese community - and that the inquiry was closing in.
The evidence given by Janice Kelly, the scientist's widow, loomed large in the headlines this week and will probably dominate memories of this inquiry.
To be sure, there will be a formal inquiry, featuring some number of open hearings, plus probably large quantities of testimony taken in secret session.
Although the 2006 Goldenberg Commission of Inquiry noted that Mr Mudavadi was not directly involved, the question remains how such large sums of money could have been siphoned off under his nose without his knowledge.