Sturgeon in Brexit warning
BY LYNSEY BEWS PROPOSALS to resolve the dispute over post-Brexit powers would “completely demolish” the principle of the devolution settlement, Nicola Sturgeon has said.
Ministers published changes to the EU Withdrawal Bill in an effort to end the long-running row with the Scottish and Welsh governments.
While the Welsh have reached agreement, Scottish ministers have stood firm in their objection, stating the proposals would mean Holyrood’s powers could be restricted without consent for up to seven years.
Ahead of further talks between ministers next week, Scotland’s First Minister said: “The UK Government have made clear they want the final say on many devolved policy areas which are currently subject to EU law – completely demolishing the principle at the heart of the devolution settlement endorsed democratically by the people of Scotland more than 20 years ago.”
Amendments include a “sunset clause” so devolved powers returned to Westminster do not stay there indefinitely.
AGovernmentspokesman said: “We hope the Scottish Government will now sign up to this sensible, pragmatic compromise.” BY ASHLEIGH RAINBIRD reporters@dailyrecord.co.uk ANT McPartlin has been seen in public for the first time since his month in rehab.
The troubled Britain’s Got Talent star was seen out happily walking his dog Hurley.
But he will continue his battle against booze and emotional problems at home – with mum Christine Woodhall’s help.
It is understood she will support him in his fight against the demons after the drink-drive smash that led him to enter rehab in the first place.
Ant has been back at his £5million home in Chiswick, South West London, since Thursday.
The 42-year-old was spotted smiling as he mingled with fellow dog walkers later that day – including a blonde woman. Ant split with wife Lisa Armstrong, 41, this year as he battled an addiction to painkillers.
The presenter was this month banned from the road for 20 months and fined £86,000 after admitting drink-driving.
Christine was in the car when he crashed into two motors carrying children in nearby Richmond. But Wimbledon magistrates court heard she was unaware her son had been drinking.
Speaking after the hearing, Ant said: “I want to say I’m truly sorry for what happened. High standards are expected of me, I expect them of myself. I’ve let myself down, I let a lot of people down.
“I’d like apologise to everybody involved in the crash and I’m just thankful no one was seriously hurt.”
In a statement read by his lawyer, he added: “I am ashamed and mortified.
“I’m addressing what I now recognise as problems with alcohol and emotional issues. As a consequence I have sought immediate specialist help and support.”
Piers Morgan, 53, who worked with Ant on Britain’s Got Talent, wrote in a magazine yesterday: “He’s clearly going through a crisis in his life and needs proper time and help to sort himself out.”