Constitutional Law

Supports the draft order but raises concerns about the impact on benefit claimants who may face deductions from their benefits. Questions how the order will ensure affordability for those affected, particularly during a time of high unemployment and increased use of universal credit.

Congratulates Ian Murray on his return to the role of shadow Secretary of State for Scotland. Highlights the importance of section 104 orders and the smooth operation of devolution despite occasional flare-ups between politicians. Emphasises the day-to-day collaboration between UK Government and Scottish Government officials, particularly in ensuring that legislation is enacted appropriately. Praises Police Scotland's work during the coronavirus crisis and commends Chief Constable Iain Livingstone for his approach to policing by consent. Criticises unhelpful suggestions of border patrols and supports the chief constable’s stance against such measures. Highlights the shocking report of 100 officers being attacked or abused in the first few weeks of lockdown, emphasising that abuse and assault are not acceptable. Acknowledges delays in legislation enactment but welcomes the order's implementation. Expresses concerns about Scottish National Party Government's approach to police funding and calls for additional protective measures for police officers.

The legislation has taken a considerable period of time to come through, but it is welcomed. It should not be politicised and should be considered south of the border. The genesis of this legislation came from visits to police treatment centres in Auchterarder and Harrogate where officers can receive professional treatment for injuries sustained on duty. This measure provides an opportunity for courts to impose restitution orders that would see tangible benefits for the police service, supporting individual officers and wider services.

Welcomes the opportunity to enable the Act to be fully enacted through this order. Discusses the challenges faced by Police Scotland during the pandemic with no fewer than 100 direct coronavirus-related attacks on our police service. Highlights the increase in reported assaults on police officers over the past five years, with more than 3,000 police officers assaulted between March and September last year. Supports the legislation for restitution orders which will finally be brought forward into law.

Welcomes the legislation for police restitution orders in Scotland, which will allow fines to be paid by those who assault or abuse police officers. The funds raised will support injured officers through non-NHS specialist care. Acknowledges the long-standing issue of assaults on police officers and shares personal experiences of such incidents. Emphasises the importance of supporting police officers during the current pandemic and beyond, highlighting their role in enforcing emergency laws and tackling crime. Expresses disappointment at the seven-year delay since the legislation was initially announced by the Scottish Government. Questions the reasons for this delay and calls for swift implementation.

Emphasises the need for quicker implementation of restitution orders, highlighting the Scottish Courts' discretion in imposing fines and benefit deductions based on offenders' means. Acknowledges the cross-border impact and raises concerns about the Department for Work and Pensions’ capacity to manage an increase in applications.

Noted Mr Speaker’s provisional determination that a remote division would not take place on the question before the House, thus the debate proceeded without further ado.