Holyrood does not have veto

Sir, - Commentators have again incorrectly highlighted the potential for Holyrood to veto the Great Repeal Bill and, therefore, Brexit.

The issue has arisen once more because there is discussion again over the prospect that the Brexit bill might require an accompanying legislative consent motion (LCM) at Holyrood. That is because departing from the European Union impinges upon powers - such as justice and agriculture - which are devolved.

However, an LCM does not amount to a veto and the Scottish Government has never claimed it had a potential veto over Brexit.

The LCM builds upon the Sewel Convention, which is just that, a convention.

Westminster is and remains sovereign and MPs can legislate as they choose, including in devolved areas.

However, the UK Government, particularly in its current weakened state, will not want to roll over the devolved administrations. It could, legally but it will not want to politically and there is clearly a deal that will require to be done here.

The Scottish Government will be more inclined to consent to the Bill if it is granted a real role in the Brexit negotiations themselves, with a place in the UK negotiating team, perhaps with a seat at the top table when devolved matters are discussed with the European Commission.

The ball is in the UK Government’s court but it would be perilous to ignore the devolved administrations.

Alex Orr. 77 Leamington Terrace, Edinburgh.