Devolution (Employment) (Scotland) Bill

A Bill to amend the Scotland Act 1998 to grant legislative competence for employment matters to the Scottish Parliament.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

31 October 2023

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would amend the Scotland Act 1998 to give the Scottish Parliament the power to make laws on employment matters. In effect, it shifts responsibility for employment policy from the UK Parliament to Scotland. It is at the very start of its journey, currently at the 1st Reading in the House of Commons.

Key Points

Would transfer legislative competence for employment matters from the UK Parliament to the Scottish Parliament by amending the Scotland Act 1998.
Would enable Scotland to legislate on employment policy and related rules for Scotland, within devolved powers.
Originates in the House of Commons and is at the 1st Reading, meaning detailed scrutiny has not yet taken place.
Would maintain a distinction between devolved and reserved matters, with UK Parliament continuing to handle reserved employment issues unless further changes are made.

Progress

The bill has just begun its passage in the House of Commons (1st Reading) and would need further readings, committee scrutiny, and cross‑party agreement before any law could be enacted.

Who is affected?

Employees and workers in ScotlandEmployers and businesses operating in ScotlandTrade unions in ScotlandPublic sector organisations and services in ScotlandCivil servants and policymakers in the Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Devolution (Employment) (Scotland) Bill

23 Mar 2023

The 2022-2023 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Devolution (Employment) (Scotland) Bill | TrackPolitics