§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what her policy is regarding consultations prior to the publication of proposals involving the transfer of powers to the Scottish Executive by(a) primary legislation and (b) order in Council. [13818]
§ Mrs. LiddellAny transfer of powers to the Scottish Executive takes place following agreement between the Administrations. If conferred by primary legislation, by convention the Scottish Executive first seeks the approval of the Scottish Parliament. If by secondary legislation, the order follows the procedures set out in the Scotland Act, such orders require approval by both Houses of Parliament and also the Scottish Parliament.