Key Brexit legislation on devolved powers ‘not fit for purpose’

MP opposes Clause 11 as it currently stands but gives Government benefit of the doubt

Scottish Tory MPs have insisted ministers must reform key Brexit legislation, amid concerns it will undermine devolution and the union.

East Renfrewshire MP Paul Masterton led the backbench bloc in calling for changes to a section of the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill focused on powers currently held by the devolved administrations.

He described clause 11 as “not fit for purpose” and said it must be replaced with a new version, adding progress is being made and he expects further movement at the next joint ministerial committee (JMC).

Mr Masterton noted the Scottish Conservatives “stand ready to help broker a compromise” and outlined assurances he is seeking.

John Lamont, MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, said the UK Government “needs to do more” to find a way forward with the devolved administrations, while fellow Tories Luke Graham, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, and Andrew Bowie, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, also called for change.

However, the Scottish Tories criticised opposition amendments to the Bill, with Mr Bowie claiming SNP proposals would “undermine” the UK and its “common market”.

They do not plan to oppose the Government during votes on day four of committee stage, with progress expected as the Bill undergoes further scrutiny.

Mr Masterton said his vote with the Government “should not and must not be taken as an acceptance of clause 11 as it stands”.

He went on: “I am prepared at this stage to give the UK Government the time and opportunity to take matters forward and the clear position that both sides need to move from where they are now in terms of clause 11.”

The SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford told ministers that clause 11 “completely undermined” the current devolution settlements in place.

He said: “As it stands the SNP cannot and will not support it, clause 11 is a barenaked power grab and completely undermines the devolution settlements across the United Kingdom.”

Scottish Secretary David Mundell dismissed Mr Blackford’s characterisation as “pantomime”.

I am prepared at this stage to givetheUK Government thetimeand opportunity to take matters forward... PAUL MASTERTON MP

Picture: PA. Scottish politicians have voiced fears over a possible “power grab” by Westminster as the UK tries to negotiate a Brexit deal with the EU.