Question reference: S6W-22384
- Asked by: Sarah Boyack, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 24 October 2023
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Current status: Answered by Shona Robison on 6 November 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will consult on proposals to establish a Future Generations Commissioner by the end of 2023.
Answer
In the 2022-23 Programme for Government, the Scottish Government reaffirmed our commitment to explore a Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill to support greater implementation of the National Performance Framework and ensure that the interests of future generations are considered in decisions made today.
Ministers and officials have been engaging with several stakeholders including meeting with Ms Boyack MSP earlier this month. This has assisted with developing policy proposals.
The proposed Bill may seek a statutory requirement that ensures public bodies and local authorities consider the long-term consequences of their decisions for the wellbeing of people in Scotland, including those not yet born. We are considering whether a Future Generations Commissioner is the most appropriate way to ensure the support and accountability which would need to accompany such duties. It will be important to consult widely on this broad policy area to ensure that any legislation is effective.