Brexit post for ex-EK councillor Simpson to lead Holyrood group
A f o r mer E a s t Ki l b r i d e councillor has been put at the forefront of Scottish Brexit talks.
Central Scotland MSP Graham Simpson has been named as the convener of a Scottish Parliament committee.
And he will play a key role in scrutinising Brexit legislation on behalf of Scotland.
T h e f o r me r E a s t K i l b r i d e West councillor, who backed a Leave vote ahead of last year ’s EU referendum, will chair the delegated powers and law reform committee and examine the European Union Withdrawal Bill in the coming months.
Mr Si mpson was el ected as chair following Holyrood’s return from summer recess.
And he believes the country is entering an historic time in the midst of the process to exit the EU.
The Conservative MSP said: “It is a privilege to be elected convener f or t he delegated powers and l aw reform committee, especially at a time when people are waiting t o see what i mpact Brexit will have not only on Scotland but the UK as well.
“The committee have a bi g job on their hands but we are up to the task and will have tough questions for both the Scottish and UK governments.
“It vitally important that ov e r t h e c o mi n g mont h s we give due diligence and forensic examination on all the legislation that will be laid before the parliament in regards to Brexit.
“T h e c o mmit t e e i s n o t a l l about Brexit – there are many other pieces of legislation that the Scottish Government wants to pass into law.
“It is only right and proper that they are examined thoroughly by an independent cross-party committee.”
Mr Simpson will also continue in his role on the local government and communities committee. He added: “As the Scottish Parliament returns after recess, it is going to be a very busy time. There is much to do but I’m looking for ward to getting started.”
I’m looking forward to getting started...