Scotland Bill: ‘Status quo’ could look attractive in 2014 vote

It means that the “status quo” option will take on a significant new look when Scots come to make their decision.

Holyrood already has power over the criminal justice system, meaning the courts, prison service, police and fire service are all effectively controlled by Kenny MacAskill. Some areas of law have remained reserved to Westminster, but the Scotland Bill will now give Holyrood control over firearms legislation, national speed limits and drink-driving laws.

The Scottish Government has overall control of education policy, with universities, further education colleges and nurseries all under Holyrood’s auspices.

The economy is a reserved issue, although Holyrood has some control in areas such as inward investment, the promotion of trade, exports and tourism.

The changes proposed will give new tax-raising powers to the Scottish Parliament. Scotland currently relies on an annual handout from Westminster of about £30 billion a year. Only about £4bn of tax is raised in Scotland, including through council tax and business rates. Under the Scotland Act, this will more than double to about £9bn. Stamp duty and landfill tax will come under the control of MSPs, increasing accountability.

Holyrood will also be given borrowing powers of about £2.2bn to help fund major construction projects such as the new Forth road bridge.

The health service will remain under Scotland’s control – it is the biggest area of Scottish Government spending, with about £11bn a year going into hospitals and medical services.

The arts, sports and language are devolved areas, but broadcasting and the National Lottery remain reserved.

Transport is another key area which will be run from Scotland, with Holyrood also having responsibility for local councils, which cover areas such as housing and the planning system.

• Full text of the Written Ministerial Statement by Michael Moore on the Scotland Bill