Tag: Scottish Parliament

Questions raised around whether the Ecocide (Scotland) Bill is the best way forward, says Holyrood Committee

Questions have been raised around whether the Ecocide (Scotland) Bill, as drafted, is the best way forward, says Holyrood’s Net Zero, Energy & Transport Committee.

In its Stage 1 Report of the Member’s Bill, the Committee say that they consider ecocide should be treated as a ‘grave criminal wrongdoing’. However, owing to the lack of time remaining to address significant issues raised in evidence, a majority (see note 1 in Background) agree that the Bill as it stands should not proceed further during this parliamentary session.

The Bill, introduced by Monica Lennon MSP (above) in May 2025, aims to create a distinct criminal offence of ecocide; to reduce the likelihood of future incidents; and help protect Scotland’s population, wildlife and ecosystems.

Its proposals allow for both people and organisations to be convicted, with custodial sentences of up to 20 years and unlimited fines.

The report highlights questions over the definitions of key terms in the offence as set out in the Bill and an alternative approach of amending Section 40 of the Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014.

It says also that there are issues around the enforcement of environmental law and concerns that existing legal sanctions are rarely used.

https://twitter.com/i/status/2014642871215751250

Convener of the Net Zero, Energy & Transport Committee, Edward Mountain MSP, said: “The Committee commends Member in Charge, Monica Lennon MSP for her work on this Bill, which has launched an important discussion about how we deal with ecocide.

“We agree with the principle of having stronger criminal penalties for severe environmental damage. However, the concerns raised during our scrutiny must be fully explored and this would require detailed consultation with prosecutors, regulators and expert stakeholders.

“Realistically, we do not believe there is any prospect of the issues being addressed comprehensively within the time we have remaining during this Parliamentary session. As a result, it would not be responsible for us to recommend that the Bill proceeds further at this stage.”

A key question raised during scrutiny was whether, instead of creating a standalone offence, existing environmental legislation (Section 40 of the 2014 Act) could be amended to create an ‘apex’ tier for ecocide-level harm, with increased penalties.

Related to this, the report says the Committee was struck by the lack of prosecutions under the existing Section 40. To gain a better understanding of why this is the case, and irrespective of any future route taken with this legislation, the Committee recommends that the Scottish Government undertake a short, targeted review of Section 40, early in next parliamentary session.

The report says that concerns about the legal clarity and workability of the Bill were raised. Uncertainty around the definition of key terms such as ‘severe environmental harm’ along with the Bill’s treatment of harm caused over a period of time, omissions and courses of conduct, left doubt as to whether prosecutors would be able to achieve the criminal standard of proof.

Furthermore, the report says that the Bill in its current form could create legal uncertainty within the planning system and potentially have a ‘chilling effect’ on decision-taking and major developments. It recommends that any future legislative approach, should provide a clear defence for licensed or authorised activities, which would protect operators acting within permits and public authorities exercising statutory functions lawfully and in good faith.

NZETS062026R04Download

SNP vote down Boyack’s Bill – despite promising it in manifesto

The SNP government voted down Sarah Boyack’s Wellbeing and Sustainable Development bill yesterday (Thursday), despite promising to deliver such a bill in their manifesto.

Ms Boyack has been working on this bill since 2021, and it was formally introduced in March 2025.

The SNP Government initially put forward a consultation in 2023 on their own wellbeing and sustainable development bill before not progressing with it.

Ms Boyack highlighted in her speech that the Deputy First Minister had assured her that the Scottish Government would work constructively with her on her bill.

However, the government then came out in opposition to Ms Boyack’s bill.

Dozens of stakeholders and industry experts came out in support of the bill and took part in the consultation process.

The bill aimed to create a Future Generations Commissioner, to deliver guidance and have investigatory powers,  to ensure that key policy decisions are made with the long-term interest in mind.

It would also have delivered a legal definition of sustainable development that public bodies would have to abide by.

Speaking after the vote, Ms. Boyack said: “I am extremely disappointed with today’s decision.

“The SNP promised this bill in their manifesto but now vote it down just weeks before an election.

“Instead of ensuring Scotland is a world leader in sustainable development, the SNP Government has kicked the issue into the long grass.

“I hope after the election, the new government takes this issue on board and finally cements joined up, long-term thinking into Scottish policy making and decisions.

“I am certain Scotland can and will be a world leader in sustainable development and deliver the change people urgently need but we must have a government that is willing to prioritise the long-term over short-term gains.”

Education Minister tells Indian Students: “We Want More of You Here” at INSA’s 10th Anniversary Launch

Scottish Higher Education Minister Ben Macpherson delivered a strong welcoming message to Indian students at the INSA India-Scotland Student Leadership Summit 2026 held at the Scottish Parliament yesterday (22 January 2026).

Addressing 78 Indian student leaders representing 9 Scottish universities, he emphasised that Scotland values their contribution and wants to see more Indian students choosing Scottish universities.

The summit comes amid ongoing UK-wide debate over international student policy and graduate migration routes, placing Scotland’s position in contrast to proposed national measures. It brought together Indian students from universities across Scotland and marked the first event in INSA UK’s year-long 10th anniversary celebrations under the banner “INSA@10: Ten Years of Empowering Indian Students in the UK.” 

In his address to students, Minister Macpherson made clear Scotland’s position on the proposed international student levy, stating that Scotland does not support the measure. He emphasized that the Scottish Government values the significant contribution Indian and international students make to Scotland’s economy and growth, and expressed his desire to welcome more Indian students to Scotland’s universities.

The Minister’s attendance at the summit represented his first direct engagement with the Indian student community in Scotland, lending significant weight to the government’s commitment to international education partnerships.

Siddharth Malik, Consul General of India in Edinburgh, reinforced the Minister’s message by describing the relationship as “a two-way partnership” where Indian students bring potential that helps Scotland grow and nurture talent. He highlighted the deep historical ties between India and Scotland that have strengthened over the years.

Sue Webber MSP, who hosted the event at Holyrood, welcomed the continued growth of Indian students into Scottish universities. A former hockey player who actively promotes sport, Webber called on attendees to support the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Scotland this year, drawing a natural connection between sport, inclusivity, and the Commonwealth ties that bind India and Scotland.

The summit featured the launch of the INSA@10 logo, symbolizing a decade of service since the organization’s founding in 2016 at the High Commission of India in London. What began as a small initiative has grown into the UK’s largest Indian student network, now representing over 100,000 students across more than 50 universities.

Professor Sue Rigby of Edinburgh Napier University praised the “immense talent and technical caliber” of Indian students, emphasizing her university’s industry-oriented Polytechnic heritage. She stressed the shared responsibility of universities and employers to ensure Indian students “don’t just land in Scotland, but are given the inclusive pathways to truly take root in the economy.”

A panel discussion explored the skills and mindsets needed to navigate Scotland’s professional landscape. Professor Neville Wylie of the University of Stirling connected the concept of “Scottish Grit” to the determination required in a global economy.

Professor Brad Mackay of the University of St Andrews addressed intensifying global competition for talent, urging students to remain self-reflective and deeply engaged with the educational ecosystem.

Professor Moyra Boland of the University of Glasgow noted that “seeing Indian women walking in sarees represented a visible blend of confidence, intelligence, and determination,” emphasizing that cultural inclusivity is essential for students to thrive and contribute to the Scottish economy.

Dr Chris Yeomans of the University of Edinburgh discussed preparing Indian students to lead Scotland’s workforce in an AI-driven future, with Edinburgh committed to “redefining graduate skills” to ensure technically gifted students move beyond entry-level roles.

Amit Tiwari, INSA UK National President, outlined the organization’s role as “a voice of hope for anyone facing challenges,” providing support and assistance whenever students need help.

Puneet Dwivedi MBE described INSA as “a crucial bridge for networking, representation, and leadership development,” helping students transition into meaningful professional engagement in Scotland.

Abhishek Bhatia inspired students by highlighting how immigration processes have evolved, making it easier for students to pursue opportunities today.

Also in attendance was Dr Poonam Mallik, Chair and Co-founder of MicroplateDx and former Board Member of Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International. The event was co-hosted by Aishwarya Raman, INSA Scotland Lead, and Aadhi Saravanan, University of Glasgow INSA Lead. The South Asian Network supported the event as the media partner.

The India-Scotland Student Leadership Summit represents the beginning of a year-long series of INSA@10 events that will take place across the UK throughout 2026, celebrating a decade of empowering Indian students and building the next generation of leaders.

Tackling Harmful Drinking: Alcohol industry action showcased at Holyrood event

Tackling harmful drinking was the focus of an event at Holyrood last week, sponsored by Emma Roddick, MSP for Highlands and Islands.

MSPs and other stakeholders, the third sector, Police Scotland and representatives from the drinks industry, were given the chance to see for themselves the work supported by the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership (SAIP) and delivered across the country to tackle harm and promote an increasingly moderate and responsible approach to alcohol.

Several of the organisations that the SAIP and its members work with were represented at the event, including Drinkaware, Community Alcohol Partnerships, Best Bar None and the Portman Group.

Emma Roddick, MSP for Highlands and Islands said: “ It was fantastic to get the opportunity to host the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership at Holyrood, bringing industry and partners together to tackle harmful drinking.

“Scotland has a complicated relationship with alcohol, and it’s important that we prevent its misuse and the damage that can be done by drinking too much, while recognising the importance of alcohol culturally, socially, and economically.

“As a Highlands and Islands MSP, I know how important whisky is locally, and we need to empower people to enjoy that without it negatively impacting their health and relationships.

“Alcohol-related hospital stays are on the decline, and last year saw a welcome decrease in alcohol deaths, but effort is needed to make sure that trajectory continues in the right direction – industry must be part of that effort.”

Paul Waterson, SAIP Chair said: “Our industry has an important role to play in encouraging moderate consumption and in tackling harmful drinking.

“The event highlighted the range of targeted interventions being taken forward in partnership across the industry, in addition to work that many companies also do individually.

“We want to have a prosperous, vibrant alcohol industry whilst at the same time driving down harmful consumption. Progress is being made but more work remains to be done.”

Committee backs minimising the use of restraint and seclusion on children and young people

The work of organisations and individual campaigners, such as Beth Morrison and Kate Sanger, has been commended by the Holyrood’s Education, Children and Young People Committee as it backs proposals that would minimise the use of restraint and seclusion in Scotland’s schools.

The Restraint and Seclusion in Schools (Scotland) Bill, introduced by Daniel Johnson MSP, aims to make the use of restraint and seclusion of children and young people in schools a last resort.

In circumstances where restraint and seclusion must be used, schools would need to follow legal guidelines, which includes informing parents or carers if their child is subject to restraint and seclusion and this use.

The Committee unanimously supported these general principles, but in doing so, expressed its disappointment at the amount of time it had taken for changes to be made despite the tireless efforts of campaigners.

Read the report

Evidence, including personal testimonies, presented to the Committee was concerning, with witnesses raising their fears that restraint and seclusion was too often seen as a first approach. The Committee was particularly concerned by the inappropriate use of the practice on children with an additional support need or disability.

The Committee’s report recommends improvements to the Bill, including refining the definitions of restraint and seclusion to avoid any ambiguity or unintended consequences and ensuring same day informing on the use of restraint and seclusion for parents or carers.

Speaking as the report was published, Committee Convener Douglas Ross MSP said: “We unanimously support the general principles of this Bill, which will be a vital tool in ensuring the safety of children and young people in Scotland’s schools.

“Our Committee heard disturbing evidence about the use of restraint and seclusion. This practice is being carried out inconsistently and, worryingly, sometimes parents are not even aware restraint and seclusion have been used. Scotland needs a consistent approach, which makes restraint and seclusion a last resort. That’s why it’s important that this Bill becomes law.

“There is still some work to be done to ensure the Bill fully achieves its aims, however we must commend the campaigners, including Beth Morrison and Kate Sanger, for raising this issue in Parliament, and Daniel Johnson MSP, who brought forward this much needed Bill.”

Multiple issues limit the ability to tackle harms of substance misuse in Scotland’s prisons, says Holyrood Committee

Workforce pressures, resource constraints and severe overcrowding are exacerbating issues related to substance misuse in Scotland’s prisons, says the Criminal Justice Committee.

The Committee’s inquiry into substance misuse in prisons looked at how substances enter Scotland’s prison estate, the impact of substances in prisons, and rehabilitation and support services.

The Committee found that substance misuse in custody remains a systemic challenge across the prison estate, and reflects deep-rooted societal issues such as poverty, trauma, inequality and mental ill-health. It says systemic reform which treats substance misuse in Scotland’s prisons as a public health issue, not a justice one, is essential to tackle it effectively.

Evidence is highlighted by the Committee of prison healthcare teams often operating under pressures that would be deemed unacceptable in community settings, including chronic understaffing, limited clinical space, high levels of acuity, and inadequate digital infrastructure.

The Committee say persistent and extreme overcrowding in prisons also acts as a major barrier to preventing substance misuse issues and providing effective care.

Highlighting the variations in healthcare provision between NHS Boards and wider health system failings, the Committee say that without significant improvement to the capacity, governance and integration of health and social care services for people in custody, prisons will struggle to absorb unmet clinical needs.

On supply and security, the Committee found that total prohibition is unrealistic in an era of synthetic cannabinoids and nitazenes, and that organised-crime networks continue to exploit vulnerabilities in the prison environment.

Although improved technology and the use of window grilles can limit supply, the Committee say success must be measured by reductions in harm and demand, not simply by the number of seizures.

Mental-health care is an area of particular concern to the Committee and the report highlights evidence of inconsistent access across the prison estate. The Committee is calling for parity between custody and community services to reduce harm and improve post-release outcomes.

The Committee say data gaps limit understanding of the true scale of the harm of substance misuse in prisons and the effectiveness of interventions, and more must be done to improve data transparency and evaluation.

The vital importance of the transition from prison to the community for individuals dealing with substance misuse is highlighted in the report. The Committee say the period after release poses the highest risk of overdose and death and that every individual should leave custody with an integrated, person-centred release plan, including verified prescriptions, housing, and GP registration.

The significant emotional and psychological strain prison officers, healthcare staff, and voluntary-sector partners face is also highlighted. The Committee say increased support and a trauma-informed approach must apply to staff as well as those in custody.

This inquiry has highlighted that tackling substance misuse requires a whole-system approach. The Committee has agreed to continue working with justice partners, health services, and communities to deliver meaningful change.

Criminal Justice Committee Convener, Audrey Nicoll MSP, said: “Our inquiry illustrates clearly that substance misuse in Scotland’s prisons is not simply a justice issue, it is a public health one and can only be tackled effectively by being treated as such.

“The evidence we have gathered reveals a prison system and staff under extreme pressure, with issues such as under-resourced services and overcrowding exacerbating the myriad impacts of substance misuse in prisons. The goal is clear: to break the cycle of addiction and reoffending, and to protect lives.

“It’s clear more must be done to reduce pressure on the workforce and reduce overcrowding, and ensure adequate resourcing of services, particularly specialist staff – all of which are vital to tackle substance misuse in prisons.

“But these issues cannot be understood in isolation from the broader social determinants of health and justice. Systemic reform which prioritises recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration is essential in order to begin to tackle the complex and intertwined issues related to substance misuse.

“Our Committee is determined that this inquiry is not the endpoint of scrutiny, but the foundation for continuing parliamentary oversight of progress in reducing drug and alcohol harms in custody and improving outcomes for individuals.

“The Committee recognises the extraordinary efforts of prison officers, healthcare staff, and voluntary-sector partners who operate daily in difficult and often dangerous circumstances. We’d like to thank everyone who has engaged with our inquiry and informed our scrutiny.”

Labour’s handling of Foysol Choudhury MSP raises serious questions of Racism and Due Process

THE PUZZLING CASE OF FOYSOL CHOUDHURY

The administrative suspension and effective deselection of Scotland’s first Bangladeshi Muslim MSP—without a concluded investigation or formal complaint exposes troubling inconsistencies in Labour’s internal processes and raises wider concerns about Islamophobia and racial bias within the party.

The treatment of Foysol Chowdhury MSP by the Labour Party raises profound and troubling questions about fairness, due process, and whether institutional racism and Islamophobia continue to operate within the party (writes Cllr HABIB RAHMAN, Independent Councillor, Former Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne).

Foysol Chowdhury made history in 2021 when he became Scotland’s first Bangladeshi Muslim MSP. Since his election, he has served his constituents diligently, taken on multiple shadow cabinet roles, and built a strong reputation as a hard-working and effective parliamentarian.

Within the British Bangladeshi community across the UK, his political success was widely seen as a breakthrough moment—proof that politics could finally reflect the diversity of modern Britain.

Beyond politics, Foysol is a successful businessman, human rights campaigner, and philanthropist. He is also a devoted family man, married for over 30 years with two adult children.

In August 2025, Foysol underwent the standard reselection process for the 2026 Scottish Parliament election. At a full members’ hustings held on 13 August, he received unanimous support and was democratically selected as Labour’s candidate for Edinburgh Northern.

What followed has been nothing short of a political and personal ordeal.

On 25 September 2025, Foysol was informed by email that he had been placed under “administrative suspension” by the Labour Party’s Governance and Legal Unit (GLU) following an alleged serious conduct complaint. No details were provided. He was not told the nature of the allegation, when it was made, who made it, or even whether a formal complaint existed.

Almost immediately, media speculation erupted, falsely portraying Foysol as a sexual predator and suggesting allegations involving a female staff member.

This speculation was later publicly corrected by the GLU, which confirmed that reports of sexual misconduct were false and that the matter related instead to an allegation of bullying. By that point, however, the damage to Foysol’s reputation had already been done.

More than three months later, Foysol remains suspended. He has not been interviewed, asked for a statement, or given any meaningful opportunity to respond. His solicitors were informed by the GLU in November that the “assessment could not be completed unless the complainant decided to submit a formal complaint”.

This raises an extraordinary question: how can an elected representative be suspended indefinitely on the basis of a complaint that may not even formally exist?

Despite this unresolved situation, Scottish Labour proceeded as though Foysol no longer existed. In December 2025, party officials announced that applications had opened to “fill the vacancy” in Edinburgh Northern, using an all-women shortlist. This is despite the fact that Foysol had already been selected by members and no finding had been made against him.

A shortlist of three candidates was approved, with a hustings scheduled for January 2026. Notably, the shortlist contains no candidates of colour. For a party that routinely speaks about diversity and representation, this is deeply concerning.

I want to be absolutely clear on one point. Foysol Chowdhury is a friend. However, as a lifelong campaigner against bullying and harassment, I would be among the first to condemn him if he were found guilty of bullying or harassment of any kind. No one should be above accountability. But accountability requires evidence, due process, and fairness—not whispers, leaks, and indefinite suspension.

I also speak from personal experience. I left the Labour Party in January 2024 after repeatedly challenging Islamophobia and racism within its structures. I did so in the hope that the party would reflect, reform, and improve. Sadly, I see no evidence that this has happened. If anything, under the current leadership, the situation has worsened.

There is also a clear and troubling precedent that exposes a double standard. I submitted a formal complaint to the Labour Party on 8 March 2022 against a sitting Labour councillor. Despite this, that councillor—who is white—was permitted to remain on the ballot paper as a Labour candidate in the May 2022 local elections.

The GLU delayed imposing any administrative suspension until after the councillor had submitted their nomination papers to Newcastle City Council. Only then was a 12-month suspension imposed. That councillor went on to win the seat as a Labour candidate, served the suspension period, and later returned to the party.

This stands in stark contrast to the treatment of Foysol Choudhury—a Black Muslim MSP—who has been suspended without a concluded investigation, without a formal complaint, and effectively removed from selection.

What we are witnessing in Foysol Choudhury’s case is an effective deselection without investigation, a punishment without a verdict, and a complete abandonment of one of Labour’s most prominent minority representatives. It is difficult to avoid the conclusion that this case would have been handled very differently had Foysol not been a Bangladeshi Muslim man.

Under Keir Starmer’s leadership, Labour increasingly appears detached from the principles of justice, equality, and solidarity it once claimed to uphold. The handling of this case by Scottish Labour and the GLU risks reinforcing the perception that the party is comfortable sidelining minority voices when they become inconvenient.

The Labour Party must act urgently. Either there is a formal complaint that can be investigated promptly and fairly, or there is not. If there is no formal complaint, Foysol Choudhury should be reinstated immediately, his suspension lifted, and his democratic selection respected.

An unreserved apology is owed—not only to him, but to the communities who saw his election as a symbol of progress. Anything less will confirm the belief that Labour has failed one of its own—and in doing so, failed the values it claims to stand for.

Taken together, the evidence in this case leads to a deeply troubling conclusion: that racism and Islamophobia remain real, unresolved problems within the Labour Party’s internal culture and decision-making processes.

HABIB RAHMAN

Scottish public inquiries should have defined timescales and fixed budgets, says new Holyrood report

Scottish Ministers should set defined timescales and fixed budgets for public inquiries, says a new parliamentary report.

The recommendation is one of a raft of measures from Holyrood’s Finance and Public Administration Committee to improve the cost-effectiveness of public inquiries.

The committee’s report says inquiries are “over-stretched and poorly defined” and subject to limited financial control.

It also says there is a “lack of clarity and openness” on the decision-making process leading up to inquiries being established.

The report follows an eight-month investigation into the cost-effectiveness of public inquiries – the first time a Holyrood committee has examined the subject.

The cost of inquiries in Scotland alone has risen by £30 million this year to £258 million since 2007.

Impact on frontline services

The committee also highlights the impact on frontline services when staff and resources are redirected to an inquiry.

For example, a trial judge presides over 34 trials a year on average. If a judge is involved in an inquiry lasting years, it has an impact on the justice system.

The committee says its recommendations are practical and can be implemented quickly.

Finance and Public Administration Committee convener Kenneth Gibson said: “Our investigation was prompted by increasing concern over the escalating cost of public inquiries.

“In practice, there is currently limited ability for Ministers to control expenditure and stop costs spiralling – or to stop an inquiry dragging on for years once it’s up and running.

“Our study of international models shows there are better alternatives for cost effectiveness and effective delivery. For example, Sweden normally requires its public inquiries to conclude within two years and within a set budget.

“We are also concerned at the impact on existing services if resources are redirected to inquiries that may last for years.

“We therefore recommend the Scottish Government amends its devolved Inquiries (Scotland) Rules 2007, to require a defined timescale and fixed budget at the start of every inquiry. Any subsequent justification for an extension should be brought before Parliament.

“In the longer term, the Scottish Government should work with the UK Government to update the Inquiries Act 2005 – which is reserved – to make this a primary legislation requirement.”

Practical actions, quickly

Mr Gibson added: “Our recommended package of measures is designed to strike the right balance. Retaining flexibility to meet the unique circumstances of individual inquiries, while strengthening financial controls and promoting fiscal sustainability.

“Our focus is on practical actions that can be implemented quickly within Scotland. It will benefit everyone – not only people seeking answers and justice, but taxpayers and everyone who uses public services.

“The Finance Committee urges the Scottish Government to act decisively on these recommendations to ensure Scotland’s public inquiry system is cost-effective, transparent and accountable.”

A summary of the committee’s recommendations is set out in Annexe B of the committee’s report.

The committee’s report covers themes including:

  • Limited transparency of government decision-making prior to inquiries being established
  • A lack of sufficient financial control of inquiries and the timeline for delivery
  • The rising cost and frequency of public inquiries in Scotland
  • The opportunity cost of public inquiries and the impact on frontline public services
  • The need for financial transparency and regular, consistent publication of costs – both cumulative and disaggregated
  • The need for clarity on the core purpose of an inquiry and its terms of reference
  • Views from relatives and families with experience of public inquiries
  • Judge-led inquiries – its impact on the courts and effective alternative models
  • International comparisons from Sweden, New Zealand and Australia
  • Implementing report findings – the lack of tracking and evaluation of the implementation of findings following an inquiry.

The committee’s report says its package of measures aim to:

  • increase transparency within the public inquiry system
  • promote consistency and openness in Scottish Government decision-making
  • provide greater support for inquiry teams
  • strengthen oversight and scrutiny, and importantly
  • improve cost-effectiveness and fiscal sustainability of the system.

Read the committee report

Criminal Justice Committee say the justice sector needs £400 million more

The justice sector is facing serious and complex challenges and without increased funding of £400 million (13%) in next year’s budget, the sector faces unacceptable cuts to services, say the Criminal Justice Committee.

The Committee has been gathering evidence as part of their pre-budget scrutiny 26/27. While acknowledging the budget pressures on the Scottish Government, the Committee say the evidence it has received is gravely concerning and that the justice sector has now reached a critical limit in its ability to deliver services without additional investment.

The evidence gathered shows a sector under ever-increasing pressure with new and emerging threats such as cybersecurity and climate change adding to the stress on resources. The Committee is calling for dedicated funding to ensure justice bodies can tackle rising cyber threats and climate-driven challenges.

In particular, the Committee want to see investment in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who are on the front line of responding to climate change incidents.

Other budget pressures highlighted in the report include the additional costs in planning, and implementing new legislation enacted by the Parliament.

The Committee say there is an urgent need for the Scottish Government to move towards multi-year funding settlements for all justice sector bodies in Scotland to allow for longer term planning and more flexibility.

The Committee recommend that the Scottish Government works with the UK Government to see if a solution can be found which would allow both the Scottish Police Authority/Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service flexibility to manage their budgets through the use of a financial reserve, as they did before they became single nationwide services.

Furthermore, the Committee want the Scottish Government to look into the possibility of allowing the police and fire services to be given borrowing capacity, to give them more flexibility and an ability to better respond to urgent critical challenges.

Criminal Justice Committee Convener, Audrey Nicoll MSP, said: “The scenario facing the justice sector is gravely concerning and without additional funding of £400 million it will face unacceptable cuts to frontline services.

“Our Committee acknowledge that there are no easy answers when it comes to the budget pressures the Government is facing. However, despite the best efforts of the justice sector to make efficiency savings over the last 10-15 years, it is clear that a crucial limit has now been reached in terms of funding and resources.

“Put simply, a flat cash settlement next year is not sufficient, and would lead to cuts and reductions to services which our Committee cannot accept.”

The Convener added: “We want to see additional funding of £400 million and multi-year funding settlements to help the sector in the short and long term.

“We also encourage the Scottish Government to look into giving the police and fire services the ability to borrow money and create financial reserves in order to give them more flexibility to deal with ongoing and urgent financial pressures.

“The Committee thanks witnesses from across the sector who have spoken so candidly on the pressures they face and the urgent need for increased funding.”

Boyack ‘extremely disappointed’ that future generations bill voted down by committee

Labour MSP for the Lothians, Sarah Boyack has expressed her disappointment that the committee has not endorsed her member’s bill.

The Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (Scotland) Bill aimed to embed legally defined definitions of sustainable development and wellbeing into law.

It would also have created a Future Generations Commissioner, modelled off the Welsh equivalent, that would have oversight powers to ensure that public bodies would have to consider the long-term implications of their actions.

The bill had been making its way through the Social Justice Committee at Holyrood as experts gave evidence regarding the bill.

The bill was first unveiled by Ms Boyack in 2023.

The SNP backed a wellbeing and sustainable development bill in their 2021 manifesto but came out against Ms Boyack’s bill earlier this year.

Commenting after the committee’s decision, Sarah Boyack said: “I am extremely disappointed that my member’s bill has not been supported by the majority of the committee’s members.

“The bill would have ensured that Scotland focuses on implementing sustainable development and wellbeing policies and deliver the leadership, accountability, advice and guidance we urgently need.

“I want to thank all those who supported my proposed bill as it has raised the need for joined up action and implementation onto the Parliament’s agenda.

“It’s clear from reading the committee’s report that there is action which the Scottish Government needs to deliver.

“I still believe that my bill would complement and reinforce that action.”