Carmichael welcomes draft bill on more powers for Scotland

Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has hailed today’s publication of the Scotland Draft Clauses on more powers for Scotland, which he said has delivered home rule for Scotland in a strong United Kingdom.

“Today has been a momentous day in delivering home rule for Scotland within a strong United Kingdom,” he said.

“We made a vow to deliver extensive new powers and today’s publication of Draft Clauses, based on the cross-party Smith Commission, has been delivered.

“I’m delighted that under these proposals the Scottish Parliament will raise over half the money it spends, we will have a Scottish Welfare System with a starting budget of over £2.5 billion and there will be votes for 16 and 17 year olds for Holyrood and local government elections.”

The Scottish Secretary added: “Once these proposals are enacted the Scottish Parliament will be the third most powerful devolved parliament in the world.”