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Scottish Government issue response to Social Renewal Advisory Board report

  • Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 25th March 2021

The Government reaffirm commitments to a new Human Rights Act, but leave decisions around human rights budgeting until after the election.

The Scottish Government have published their response to the Social Renewal Advisory Board (SRAB) report, “If not now, when?” (this link will take you away from our website) Amongst the calls to action in the SRAB’s report were the incorporation of further international human rights treaties into Scots law, and the adoption of a human rights approach to budgeting.

In their response, the Government reaffirmed their commitment to a new Human Rights Bill if re-elected in the next session of Parliament. Another pledge relates to widening access to social security, and increasing disability assistance entitlements in line with inflation. They also highlighted ongoing work in improving data collection on the impact of COVID-19 on disabled people and other minority groups.

Actions relating to co-production and human rights budgeting were not referenced in the response. The Government state that a full response was not possible due to the lack of time before the election, and that the new government that takes office in May should issue a comprehensive response.

The ALLIANCE would urge that government, regardless of what party or parties form it, not to lose sight of those crucial recommendations. Plans to incorporate further human rights treaties into Scots law are very welcome, but must be part of wider change. Adopting a human rights approach to budgeting would further ensure rights are firmly embedded in all areas of government.

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