§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he plans to review the law on latent damage, particularly in buildings; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RifkindI am aware of the concern expressed in Scotland about the existing law and of the decision to legislate for England and Wales in the light of the Law Reform Committee's report on latent damage.
In Scotland, time limits on actions arising as a result of latent damage are governed by the law on prescription and limitation. My noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate has Ministerial responsibility for changes in that law and he has invited the Scottish Law Commission to consider the problems which arise and to report to him with their recommendations. The commission has agreed to do so.