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Scotland Act 1998 (Agency Arrangements) (Specification) Order 2001 (SI 2001/3917)
Item 2 is consideration of SI 2001/3917, which is a negative instrument that was laid before Parliament on 7 January 2002. We have been designated as the lead committee for consideration of this instrument. The time limit for parliamentary action expires on 15 February 2002.
I was a bit surprised that the Subordinate Legislation Committee said that there was nothing to draw to our attention. The Executive note that accompanies the instrument states that it comes into place on 15 February to cover regulations that were supposed to come in last year but did not. When the regulations that were supposed to come in last year do come in, the instrument will have to be revoked and replaced with a new one. I do not understand why we are doing that. Do we have time to write and ask for an explanation of why we have to pass an instrument that we will almost immediately revoke? If we do not have time, ignore me.
I am advised that we have sufficient time to do that if we wish. I understand your puzzlement. My understanding is that the instrument as passed would have no legal effect. Given that we have time, it would be appropriate for us to seek clarification. Are members comfortable with that?
Members indicated agreement.
I advise the members of the press and public who are still here that we now intend to move into private to consider the possible contents of a report on our aquaculture inquiry and to consider our work programme. As soon as the work programme has been finalised, it will be made public.
Meeting continued in private until 12:52.