The Scotland bill in the Lords and at Holyrood

It’s just worth noting that the Scotland bill’s second reading (and first substantive debate) in the Lords is scheduled for after the summer recess during the so-called spill-over.  It’s now due on 8 September.

It’s also worth noting that the Scotland Bill Committee at Holyrood has issued its call for evidence, with evidence due by the day after that Westminster debate (9 September).  The call for evidence can be found here.  It’s clear that the Committee intends to carry out a comprehensive re-examination of the bill, with a focus on a number of issues that have already been discussed (such as the Crown Estate or the nature of the devolved income tax power) as well as new ones.  The new ones include devolution of corporation tax, legal provisions relating to the UK Supreme Court, broadcasting, and Scottish engagement in EU matters.  All this implies a substantial inquiry over the autumn, meaning that Holyrood is unlikely to be in a position to decide whether legislative consent under the Sewel convention will be forthcoming until late November or December.