Bill will strengthen democratic process.
Legislation which will enhance Scotland's democratic processes
has been backed unanimously by the Scottish Parliament.
The Scottish Elections (Representation and Reform) Bill has
passed its final stage, maintaining and improving Scotland's
robust electoral system.
The Bill contains a mix of technical and other improvements such
as improving candidate and campaigner safety and advancing
candidacy rights.
The new law introduces a ban on people from being MSPs if they
are convicted of a sexual offence or subject to a sexual offence
order.
In addition, MSPs will be barred from also being an MP or Peer
through regulations to be brought forward in 2025 so they can be
in place in time for the 2026 Scottish elections. The details of
the regulations will be informed through a consultation beginning
next month.
Parliamentary Business Minister said:
“Since 1999 the Scottish Parliament has improved participation,
extended voting rights, and enabled more people to stand for
election and this legislation seeks to continue the evolution of
our democracy.
"It will modernise Scottish elections and take important steps to
safeguard our democracy for voters, candidates and
administrators.
“Through positive cross-party working, we have agreed a robust
set of improvements to the law, which will deliver real benefits
to voters and prospective candidates.”
Background
Scottish Elections
(Representation and Reform) Bill | Scottish Parliament
Website
The Bill, introduced to the Parliament by the Scottish
Government, introduces changes to campaign rules for elections to
improve fairness, transparency, and controls against foreign
spending.
A public consultation on dual mandates will be published in
January 2025 with regulations introduced in autumn 2025, subject
to scrutiny and a vote by MSPs.
