Tory anger at delay to changes

THE Scottish Tories have raised concerns about key Brexit legislation, claiming it is ‘not acceptable’, as they hit out at UK ministers over delays to amendments.

Deputy leader Jackson Carlaw said he was ‘not entirely persuaded’ the UK Government could not have done more to bring forward changes to the Bill as promised, after it was confirmed amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill to reflect concerns over its impact on devolution will be delayed.

Scottish Secretary David Mundell last month gave a commitment that Clause 11 – which deals with the devolved administra- tions – would be amended by MPs, after pressure from opposition MPs and Scottish Tories. But it was revealed yesterday any changes will be made by peers.

According to UK Government sources, the delay has been caused by the sacking of Cabinet Office minister Damian Green, who led talks with devolved administrations, and the festive break.

The delay has caused fury among opponents – and the Scottish Tories. Mr Carlaw added: ‘Let us be clear, Clause 11 is not acceptable to Scottish Conservatives.’

The clause would see EU responsibilities in devolved areas initially transferred to Westminster. The UK Government has said this will allow common frameworks to be created ahead of further devolution but the first ministers of Scotland and Wales have branded it a Westminster ‘power grab’.

Failure to reach an agreement between the two sides could result in the need for ‘continuity’ legislation in Scotland, with Brexit minister Mike Russell stating he would bring forward further plans for this later in the week.

New Cabinet Office minister David Lidington will lead talks on the Bill with devolved administrations. He spoke to Scottish Deputy First Minister John Swinney and Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones yesterday and offered to meet both.