Scottish constitution secretary Derek Mackay has highlighted the importance of new transport powers for the country’s parliament under the Scotland Act 2016, which came into effect this week.
From Monday 23 May, new powers given to the devolved administration through the Scotland Act 2016 will allow legislation to be implemented in transport as well as equal opportunities, consumer advocacy and advice and competition.
The devolution under the Act, which includes powers relating to roads, railway policing and franchising of rail passenger services, reflects a deal reached between the Scottish and UK governments after the 2014 referendum.
Derek Mackay, constitution secretary
Tax powers are also being transferred, but will take practical effect at a later date.
Mr Mackay said: ‘The Scotland Act sees the most substantial change to the powers of the Parliament since devolution. The Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government have new powers over many areas, notably in equality, consumer advocacy and transport.
‘Reflecting our priorities, we are already working to use these powers as quickly as possible, to tackle inequality and create a fairer, more prosperous country.’
He added: ‘On transport, we’ll allow public sector operators to bid for future rail franchises and integrate the British Transport Police into Police Scotland, while retaining the specialisms that are highly valued by the rail industry and passengers.
‘And we will look to attract more international flights to Scotland, boosting investment and jobs, by reforming Air Passenger Duty, which under the UK Government is one of the highest taxes of its kind in the world.’
Mr Mackay was transport secretary under the previous administration. He has been replaced by Humza Yousaf, who will act as junior minister to the cabinet secretary for rural economy and connectivity and report to the economy and climate change secretaries ‘as appropriate’.
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