STUC concerns ahead of publication of Command Paper on further devolution

January 21st 2015

STUC concerns ahead of publication of Command Paper on further devolution

January 21st 2015

STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said:

“Like other stakeholders, the STUC will wait to see the Command Paper and draft clauses before making definitive comment. However, having predicted that the rushed timescale for delivering further devolution might result in a failure to meet the aspirations of the majority of the Scottish people, we are no less concerned today.

“It is essential that in areas such as fiscal powers, welfare and control of Scotland’s rail services, that the full force of the Smith Commission’s recommendations is reflected in the Command Paper. We fear that this will not be the case. Equally, where the UK Government has the power to smooth the transfer of powers, by delaying the roll-out of Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payments in Scotland, it must take the appropriate steps.

“We now face the very real risk that trust in the process for delivering enhanced devolution will be further undermined. The STUC will be pressing for the fullest possible public consultation on the contents of the Command Paper, including a citizen-led process which can assess whether it meets the aspirations of the Scottish People and the promises of Home Rule which were given.”

ENDS

For further comment: Dave Moxham 0141 337 8100