MSPs pass laws giving police stronger powers

EMERGENCY laws handing police the powers to detain people and force the closure of businesses have been passed by MSPs.

They are set to come into force today after obtaining the support of MPs at Westminster and gaining Royal Assent.

But yesterday MSPs passed a legislative consent motion (LCM), which was required as the legislation covers both reserved and devolved laws.

The UK Coronavirus Bill will enable police to arrest and detain people who fail to comply with the lockdown, or who are putting others at risk.

They will also have the power to cancel events and close premises such as pubs, clubs and retailers which fail to obey stringent restrictions.

The LCM was passed unanimously at Holyrood last night, with all parties welcoming the move to tackle the pandemic. Constitution Secretary Michael Russell said: ‘This new emergency legislation will help to save lives as we face this unprecedented crisis.

‘It is only because of the extraordinary public health challenge confronting us, as a result of the global pandemic, that these measures have had to be considered.’

He added: ‘These are emergency powers that will be in force temporarily and only used if required.’

The legislation will also allow additional health professionals such as retired doctors and nurses to enter the workforce and relax regulations on frontline staff.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: ‘I very much welcome the Scottish parliament consenting to this emergency Bill.

‘It is an essential piece of legislation to help us save lives at this difficult and unprecedented time.’