English Votes for English Laws : Law Society of Scotland Responds

In response to the UK Government’s proposals on English votes for English laws, Christine McLintock, president of the Law society of Scotland said: “The West Lothian question has existed for almost 40 years, and will not be answered by changing the House of Commons standing orders alone.

“One of the most challenging aspects of this will be deciding what legislation is England or England and Wales only.  Even small amendments to legislation starting off as England only can create consequences for other parts of the United Kingdom.  Dealing with different legislation in different ways could lead to an even more complicated and confusing parliamentary process.

“We do have some concerns at the inclusion of Finance Bills in the proposals.  The UK Government needs to explain why Budget Resolutions which may impact the whole of the UK are not treated in the same way as taxes which also apply to the UK. 

"With the ongoing debate over the appropriate powers for the devolved assemblies and parliaments and indeed with forms of devolution to regions within England, now is the time to look at these issues as part of a wider context.  Indeed, it may be that a federal system offers the only long term and sustainable solution."

ENDS

2 JULY 2015

Notes to Editor

The Law Society of Scotland responded to the McKay Commission in June 2012.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Please contact Louise Docherty louisedocherty@lawscot.org.uk 0131 476 8204.