By Scottish Government To Be Handed Permanent Emergency COVID Powers
(by Gregor Young | The National) – SOME emergency coronavirus powers are to become permanent in Scotland after MSPs passed legislation at Holyrood.
The Coronavirus (Recovery and Reform) (Scotland) Bill was backed in Parliament by 66 votes to 52 on Tuesday night.
The legislation will give the Scottish Government the ability to impose lockdown restrictions, allow court hearings to take place remotely and restrict access to schools in the event of any future public health emergencies – with oppositions MSPs branding it a “power grab”.
John Swinney told the chamber that in response to concerns expressed over the move, an explanation will be required as to why regulations would need to be introduced urgently, and an expiry date set for instances where there is no time limit.
So-called “Henry VIII” powers in the legislation will be subject to parliamentary approval, he added. Read Full Article >
