European and External Relations Committee, 22 Mar 2005

Meeting date: Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Official Report 249KB pdf

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European Union Legislation (Transposition and Implementation)

Item 4 is a report on the Executive's progress on the transposition and implementation of EU legislation in Scotland. We receive such a report bimonthly from the Executive. Members will note that the legislation is grouped into three self-explanatory categories: completed, on-going and late. The second page of my accompanying note contains recommendations on the report. I draw members' attention to the fact that the Subordinate Legislation Committee is examining the regulatory framework in Scotland, an issue that was covered in the discussion that we just had with Mr McCabe. The material may be of relevance to that committee's inquiry. Do members have any comments?

The point that registers with me once again is the high level of transposition in Scotland, which contrasts with the level in countries such as France, Germany and Italy.

We have a tradition of obeying the law.

Unfortunately, others do not.

We cannot condemn the Executive for obeying the law, although we could condemn it on many other matters.

I am complimenting the Executive, given the failure of other countries in the European Union.

I am sure that the Executive will take great heart from your warm words.