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Update on the Scottish Government’s Human Rights Incorporation Bill

  • Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 1st February 2023
an illustration of a newspaper with the word 'ALLIANCE' on it, a pink smart phone, and a purple laptop.

The Minister for Equalities and Older People has responded to a joint letter to update on progress of the Human Rights Incorporation Bill.

Christina McKelvie MSP, Minister for Equalities and Older People, has responded to a joint letter from Scottish civil society organisations regarding development of the Scottish Government’s Human Rights Incorporation Bill.

The joint letter asked for a timetable for the Human Rights Incorporation Bill to allow civil society organisations to plan for engagement with our members and networks to respond to the consultation.

The letter also raised concern that amendments to the UNCRC Incorporation Bill have not yet been considered by the Scottish Parliament, and asked for assurance that progressing this is being prioritised by the Scottish Government.

The Minister for Equalities and Older people responded to the letter to reaffirm the Scottish Government’s commitment to introducing a Human Rights Bill during the current parliamentary session, with the public consultation due to be published within the first half of this year.

The Minister also highlighted work to ensure effective and robust implementation of the Bill, including the establishment of an Implementation Working Group to provide advice and insight on approaches to implementation, including the development of guidance, capacity building, and monitoring and reporting requirements.

The Minister also outlined the Scottish Government’s committed to incorporating the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into Scots law, as far as possible within devolved competence. The Scottish Government intends to bring the Bill back to the Scottish Parliament for Reconsideration Stage, and continues to engage with the UK Government on the amendments to the Bill.

Read the full letter.

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