Calman: Case exists for extra powers at Holyrood

Published on Sunday 30 November 2008 21:05

THERE is a case for control of firearms, broadcasting and some financial powers to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament, the expert group looking into the devolution settlement will announce tomorrow.

The Calman Commission, set up by the Unionist parties to examine the powers of the Scottish Parliament, will publish its interim report tomorrow. This report will not make any firm recommendations, rather it will set out the broad areas where the body feels changes could be made.

It is understood that the group has come to the conclusion that there is a case for the control of firearms legislation and broadcasting to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.

However, it has also decided that further investigation needs to be done before definite recommendations can be reached.

A source close to the commission said the likelihood is that control over abortion law will remain at Westminster for the whole of the UK.

It is understood that tomorrow's report will leave open the possibility of either assigning individual Scottish tax revenues to the Scottish Government – rather than simply giving it a block of money at the start of the financial year – or handing over the control of some specific tax powers to Holyrood.

But again, no firm decisions have been taken and all of these financial issues will be examined in further detail over the next six months.