Unnamed bill under discussion - Clause 16 and new clauses/amendments related to it

Proposes new clauses and amendments to Clause 16, emphasising that the Secretary of State or Lord Chancellor should be the appropriate national authority for regulations impacting England only or the whole UK. She also calls for a list of regulators, guidance on mutual recognition, and consent from devolved authorities before making regulations.

Supports Plaid Cymru’s new clause 5 requiring the Secretary of State or Lord Chancellor to obtain consent from devolved Governments before acting in areas of devolved competence. Argues that it is necessary for respecting the devolution settlement and maintaining trust between UK governments.

Supports amendment 3 to ensure representatives from each of the devolved nations on the board of the assistance centre. Emphasises that the Bill undermines devolution and could erode powers in Scotland and Wales, leading to a lack of trust between governments.

Mr Owen Thompson expresses concern over clause 16 and its implications on the UK constitution. He argues that the lack of respect for devolved authorities in drafting this amendment, without seeking consent from devolved Parliaments, is unprecedented since major EU exit legislation. He raises issues with the Government's stance towards international agreements and treaty obligations, suggesting it is nonsensical to argue Scottish Ministers might undermine these frameworks despite existing legal requirements binding them. Thompson supports a new clause requiring UK Ministers to seek devolved consents before acting in areas of competence, advocating for measures that respect the Sewel convention.

Mr Sammy Wilson questions why there is now sudden concern about devolution rights when previously international agreements under EU jurisdiction were uncontroversial. He also inquires into the point Mr Thompson is making regarding independence for devolved governments, expressing confusion over the logic behind seeking greater autonomy while adhering to binding international obligations.

Mr Stewart Hosie underscores the principle at stake in this debate. He argues that by prioritising administrative utility over devolved democratic considerations, as enshrined in Scotland Act legislation, the Government is disregarding important constitutional norms.

Mr. Esterson expresses concerns about the chaotic introduction of the Bill, criticising the lack of clarity on which professions are in scope and the inconsistency in regulator lists provided to them. He emphasises that regulators need certainty for their operations, and hence proposes maintaining a public list of affected entities. Additionally, he raises doubts over the effectiveness of provisions based on previous international agreements and introduces new clause 4 aiming at better utilisation of such provisions by providing necessary guidance to regulators.

The Minister supports new clause 2, emphasising the necessity of concurrent powers for effective UK-wide regulation in devolved competence areas. He assures that the Government will consult extensively with devolved Administrations and maintain legislative consent requirements to address concerns about overreach.

Supports the improvements made by new clause 2, emphasising the need for robust regime to ensure effective professional recognition and mutual agreements that support the economy. He highlights the importance of certainty in who is covered under the Bill's provisions.

Opposes the Bill due to lack of recognition for genuine concerns from devolved Parliaments, asserting that assurances and promises are insufficient. He believes this undermines the principles of devolution.