Whether it plans to review the procedures for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency issuing pollution prevention and control licences.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is continuously developing its procedures and decision-making processes in relation to issuing pollution prevention and control permits. SEPA is currently reviewing particular aspects of the application and determination process to ensure that no undue regulatory burdens are imposed on industry, whilst ensuring that permits continue to protect the environment. The Scottish Executive will consider whether any changes to SEPA's procedures, or to the relevant legislation, are necessary once the agency has completed its review. Following an extensive consultation, and in the light of experience since the regulations were first introduced two years ago, the Executive plans to introduce a number of amendments to the Pollution Prevention and Control (Scotland) Regulations 2000 later this year.