Justice Secretary has updated Parliament on
the publication of a report on the roles and functions of the
Scottish Law Officers.
The report was commissioned by the Scottish Government and
produced by former Scottish Law Commission Chief Executive
Malcolm McMillan. As set out in the terms of reference, this
research will help to inform any future consultation on the Law
Officers' roles and functions. The Scottish Government considers
the current position is appropriate, and it will be for the next
Scottish administration formed after the 7 May election to
consider whether any changes might be desirable.
Written question and answer:
S6W-44120 | Scottish Parliament Website
Question
: To ask the Scottish
Government when it will publish the report on the Scottish Law
Officers' roles and functions?
Answer
: The report on the
Scottish Law Officers' roles and functions was published today
and is available on the Scottish Government's
website: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781806439737
We are grateful to Malcolm McMillan for the diligent and
comprehensive research and engagement undertaken to produce this
report. The report provides robust factual information, context
and analysis on the Law Officers' numerous roles and functions,
including the history, development and safeguards in place which
protect their independence.
The report clearly sets out how and why the current system works
and its considerable strengths. Careful consideration would be
required if there were to be any changes made to the ways in
which the Law Officers' various functions were allocated. As
protected by the Scotland Act, the Law Officers operate with
integrity and entirely independently of any other person as they
undertake their prosecutorial functions. Separating the functions
would require legislation by the UK Parliament.
Report on the Roles and
Functions of the Scottish Law Officers
