Written Question · S6W-28640 · Session 6
Whether it will provide an update on the publication of the Scottish Civil Justice Council’s review of court rules, and, to comply with the…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the publication of the Scottish Civil Justice Council’s review of court rules, and, to comply with the access to justice requirements of the Aarhus Convention, how it will ensure that any reforms will be enacted before the deadline of 1 October 2024.
The answer
The Scottish Civil Justice Council's review of access to justice in environmental cases has resulted in new rules being made. The new rules are contained within the Act of Sederunt (Rules of the Court of Session 1994 Amendment) (Protective Expenses Orders) 2024.
The Council continues to assess what more can be done via rules in support of environmental actions in the sheriff court and will consult again when appropriate to do so. Work also continues on the plan of action to address the remaining Aarhus concerns raised, where they would result in an amendment to court rules.
The Scottish Government will continue to work with the UK Government to provide a further update to the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee in advance of the 1 October.
The Council continues to assess what more can be done via rules in support of environmental actions in the sheriff court and will consult again when appropriate to do so. Work also continues on the plan of action to address the remaining Aarhus concerns raised, where they would result in an amendment to court rules.
The Scottish Government will continue to work with the UK Government to provide a further update to the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee in advance of the 1 October.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S6W-28640 by reference.