UK Programme for a Safer and Fairer Scotland

17 May 2005

Providing for a safer, fairer and more prosperous Scotland was at the heart of key measures unveiled in the Queen's speech today.

More than two thirds of the bills in the legislative programme include provisions which would apply in Scotland.

Scottish Secretary Alistair Darling said:

"This is a programme which will take further steps to a safe, fair and prosperous Scotland. The Scottish people will benefit from a Government committed to a fair society, with opportunity for all and safety and security for all its citizens.

"The strength of the Union provides an environment of opportunity for Scotland. Together with the Scottish Government we will continue to deliver real improvements to the lives of hard working Scots. We will also work together to make sure Scotland is a safe and prosperous place to live."

NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS

1. Over two thirds of the Bills in the legislative programme announced today include significant measures which apply in Scotland. This does not include bills which will apply solely to Wales or Northern Ireland.

2. The Scotland Office has produced a briefing note for media on the UK bills and the extent of their application to Scotland. For copies please call the number at the end of this release.

3. The following is a shorter summary of Bills mentioned in the Queen's Speech and their application to Scotland.

Applies to Scotland: Predominantly or Wholly Reserved Matters

  • Armed Forces.
  • Civil Aviation.
  • Company Law Reform.
  • Consumer Credit.
  • EU Accession.

  • EU Referendum Bill.
  • ID cards.
  • Immigration and Asylum. This is a reserved matter.

  • Incapacity Benefit.
  • Housing Benefit
  • Judicial Pensions
  • Merchant Shipping.
  • National Lottery
  • Regulation of Financial Services.
  • Regulatory Reform. This Bill will apply in Scotland in relation to reserved matters.
  • Road Safety.
  • Work and Families: Parental Rights

May Apply Wholly or in Part to Scotland: Mixture of Reserved and Devolved Matters

  • Animal Welfare.
  • Electoral Administration.

  • Equality.
  • Health Improvement and Protection.
  • Management of Offenders.
  • Mental Health.
  • Natural Environment and Rural Communities.
  • Olympics. This Bill will only be introduced if the UK wins the Olympics bid. Scotland will host some events.

  • Violent Crime. The parts of this Bill relating to reserved matters, such as firearms, will apply in Scotland