Scottish Law Officers (Devolution) Bill

A Bill to amend the Scotland Act 1998 to grant to the Scottish Parliament legislative competence in respect of the role and functions of the Scottish Law Officers; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

4 June 2024

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would give the Scottish Parliament the power to make laws about the role and duties of Scotland's top legal officers—the Lord Advocate and the Solicitor General for Scotland. It would amend the Scotland Act 1998 to devolve competence over these offices to Holyrood, with related provisions to ensure the changes fit within the devolution settlement.

Key Points

Devolves legislative competence to the Scottish Parliament over the role and functions of the Scottish Law Officers (Lord Advocate and Solicitor General for Scotland).
Defines the duties of the Lord Advocate and the Solicitor General for Scotland within Scottish law and how they advise the Scottish Government and interact with the justice system.
Contains connected provisions to ensure the changes operate smoothly with the Scotland Act 1998 and other devolution arrangements.
Aims to improve accountability and clarity by placing these offices under Scottish legislative control.
Currently at the second reading in the House of Commons; if progressed, it would move to detailed committee scrutiny.

Progress

The bill is at the second reading stage in the House of Commons. It is expected to move to committee stage for clause-by-clause examination if it progresses.

Who is affected?

The Lord Advocate and the Solicitor General for Scotland (and their offices)The Scottish Government and its civil serviceThe Scottish Parliament and its committeesLegal professionals in Scotland (solicitors, advocates) and prosecutors in Scotland (Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service)Public authorities and public bodies in Scotland that rely on the Law OfficersMembers of the public in Scotland who interact with the criminal justice system

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Scottish Law Officers (Devolution) Bill

11 Jan 2024

The dissolution of Parliament took place on Thursday 30 May 2024. All business in the House of Commons and House of Lords has come to an end and this bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Scottish Law Officers (Devolution) Bill | TrackPolitics