Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee
Meeting date: Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Official Report
480KB pdf
Protection of Workers (Scotland) Bill
We are all keen to conclude the meeting, so let us move on to item 5. Members will be aware that the Parliamentary Bureau has recommended that the Protection of Workers (Scotland) Bill be referred to us. I have now had an opportunity to look at the bill, and I find it extremely difficult to see how its subject matter falls within the committee’s remit. Parliament’s standing orders state:
“Once a Bill has been printed, the Parliamentary Bureau shall refer it to the committee within whose remit the subject matter of the Bill falls.”
It seems clear to me that the bill deals with a criminal justice issue, so I cannot see how it can fall within our remit. I point out that prior to the bureau making its decision, there was no consultation with me or, as far as I am aware, the clerk. Therefore, I request permission to write to the bureau to ask it to reconsider its decision. Is that agreed?
Members indicated agreement.
Thank you.