Rule of law must underpin UK Government’s legislative agenda

The extensive legislative agenda outlined in today's King's speech must serve to strengthen the rule of law and be underpinned by access to justice, according to the Law Society of Scotland.

Key elements of the agenda contained in the speech by King Charles III include:

• Replacing the Rwanda asylum policy with new border security, asylum and immigration legislation
• Beginning the process of repealing and replacing the Northern Ireland Legacy Legislation
• New employment legislation proposing significant changes to employment rights, as well as draft legislation on equal pay for ethnic minorities and disabled people
• Changes to arrangements for working with devolved governments and the UK’s trade and wider relationship with the EU
• Constitutional reforms, notably involving the makeup of the House of Lords
• The creation of a new Scottish-headquartered renewable energy company, Great British Energy

John Mulholland, the Convener of the Law Society’s Public Policy Committee, said: “The legislative agenda outlined in today’s speech is extensive. The key elements contained in the detail of these Bills will be scrutinised closely by the Law Society as they are progressed.

“The Rwanda policy is to be replaced with new legislation dealing with border security and asylum. It is vital that this new approach appropriately respects the rule of law, human rights and the UK's international treaty obligations.

“The rule of law must be fundamental in determining the future approach to Northern Ireland and the ongoing legacy of the Troubles.

“New employment laws must be carefully drafted and effectively communicated so that employers and employees understand their rights and obligations.

“We will consider any moves which are intended to build on the co-operation between the UK Government and devolved administrations such as Scotland’s, and the possibility of further trade and investment ties with the EU.

“Constitutional reforms in the UK have not been proposed recently and we will engage with policymakers on how to strengthen our democracy and the rule of law that underpins it.

“Finally, our members working in the energy sector will be watching the creation of Great British Energy with considerable interest, and hoping that it can drive innovation and investment in Scotland.”