Meeting of the Parliament 03 February 2026 [Draft]
It my understanding that the LCM will not alter things in relation to the specific point that the member makes. It is important to say that the measure is a future-proofing one and is reflective of the powers that are being brought forward for the Welsh ministers, as it is important that we have consistency across the piece.
Last June, we had agreement from Parliament, and further consideration was given to granting powers to the Scottish ministers, as I have alluded to, to make provision that is consequential on devolved aspects of the bill, specifically in relation to accommodation that is used for the deprivation of liberty. Although the provisions that were consented to in June should cover all necessary amendments to Scottish legislation, taking the additional powers that we are considering today would provide flexibility should future changes to Scottish legislation be required. That will ensure that children’s rights remain fully protected and that their best interests continue to guide every decision that we make.
Taking these powers also protects the devolution settlement. The provisions that are subject to the motion will ensure that consequential amendments that are made to devolved legislation are made by the Scottish ministers, reflecting the core principle that changes to devolved legislation should be made in this Parliament, unless there are compelling reasons not to do so.