Ruth Maguire MSP has welcomed plans to progress Scotland’s ground-breaking children’s rights legislation, announced by Deputy First Minister John Swinney today.
The UNCRC (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill was backed unanimously by the Scottish Parliament in March 2021, but could not be implemented because of a legal challenge brought by the UK Government. In October, the Supreme Court ruled that certain parts of the Bill were outwith the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament.
The Scottish Government has now set out how it will address this. Over the next few weeks, there will be targeted engagement with relevant organisations and children and young people on proposed changes to the Bill. These will then be brought before Parliament via the Reconsideration Stage.
Ruth Maguire MSP said:
“I welcome the next steps laid out by the Scottish Government to ensure the highest protection possible for children’s rights are upheld in Scotland.
“I am disappointed at the unnecessary obstacle put in the way of full UNCRC by the UK Government.
“However today, I welcome the next steps laid out by the Scottish Government to ensure the highest protection possible for children’s rights, are upheld in Scotland.
“It is now time to move forward with this legislation and build a Scotland with human rights at its foundation”.
Ruth’s contribution in the Scottish Parliament chamber can be found on the official report.
Watch Ruth’s exchange with the Deputy First Minister here:
Ruth Maguire MSP 