Hansard

As I explained to the committee, if, under the protocol, the UK Government approaches us for consent in relation to any impact on devolved issues, we will write to the relevant parliamentary committees, which will have an opportunity at that point to reflect on what was asked of the Scottish Government. A mechanism will be in place, albeit that it is a bespoke arrangement for this kind of legislation that has been negotiated with the UK Government and indeed Parliament recently.

On the wider issues, we all share an aspiration to support sustainable economic growth in this country. In our programme for government, the First Minister and the Government outlined the importance of ensuring that Scotland’s economy is prepared for the emerging challenges and opportunities. In a sense, that is what this legislation is about. As I stated, it is essential that the appropriate regulatory frameworks are in place to support economic growth and ensure consumer safety. That is especially true when it comes to innovative products and sectors that are crucial to our future, because we know how fast everything is changing and where technology is taking us. I addressed that in my opening remarks.

The bill provides a framework for new regulation to keep pace with those technological advances and support the future development of many products and sectors while addressing safety and environmental concerns. It also provides opportunities to level the playing field between online marketplaces and high-street retailers.

Although I acknowledge the UK Government’s decision to amend the bill to introduce a statutory consent mechanism, concerns remain about its approach to devolution in this case. Lorna Slater refuses to support the Government’s motion and says that she is going to abstain. I agree with the concerns that she expressed, because it appears that we are sometimes caught up in a constant battle to protect Scottish devolution and this Parliament's interests.

It is disappointing that we did not get all that we asked for in the bill. I argue that our ask was largely uncontroversial, but the UK Government still would not give us what we asked for. However, we got the key ask, which was for Scottish ministers’ consent to be required in relation to any relevant measures that are brought forward by the UK Government, in order to protect devolution. That important ask was secured, which is why we urge Parliament to support the motion.

As I said, the process highlighted a number of issues in relation to our relationship with the Labour Government. Those issues need to be sorted out, because we must not be involved in a constant battle. We must protect Scottish devolution. As that is in the interests of the people of Scotland, all parties in the Parliament should stand up for that.

The final issue that I want to address is that of alignment with the EU. The bill’s history is related to Brexit and retained EU law. The bill includes the ability to align with EU environmental law when it comes to protecting the environment, but, as other members have mentioned, the UK Government also has the ability, in that context, to diverge from EU law. However, the bill gives the UK Government the power to align with EU environmental law. Of course, that is the policy of the Scottish Government, and we urge the UK Government to do that at every opportunity.

I urge Parliament to support the motion.