Subordinate Legislation Committee, 29 Nov 1999

Meeting date: Monday, November 29, 1999

Official Report 69KB pdf

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Abolition of Feudal Tenure etc (Scotland) Bill

Some points were raised at the previous meeting about the Abolition of Feudal Tenure etc (Scotland) Bill, in particular about section 5(1). That point was drawn to the attention of the Executive, which has responded to us. The legal briefing suggests that we draw the attention of the Parliament to the explanation given, which fully clarifies matters, and advise that we are content with the use of the powers and procedures. Is that acceptable?

Members indicated agreement.

The suggestion is the same for section 20, although our lawyer, Margaret Macdonald, has advised that the Executive has accepted our position. We are grateful that it has generously taken on board the points that we raised. Again, this is a matter that we should draw to the attention of Parliament, but we are perfectly satisfied with it.

On section 74—the Henry VIII powers, which we flagged up—it is suggested again that, in view of the undertaking given by the Executive, this is an acceptable compromise and that we should alert the Parliament and the lead committee to the proposed amendment. Is that agreed?

The proposed change of moving to affirmative procedures is welcome.