The Lobbying (Scotland) Act 2016 and what it means for your charity
Following considerable scrutiny and debate, the Lobbying (Scotland) Act 2016 became law in April 2016. That debate recognised lobbying as a legitimate and valuable part of our democratic process, whilst agreeing that the creation of a public Lobbying Register was appropriate to enhance public transparency, for certain types of lobbying.
The Scottish Parliament was given the duty to develop and implement the systems and guidance to operate the new Lobbying Register and committed to do so within 2 years of the Act being passed.
In our latest blog, Dougie Wands, Acting Lobbying Registrar, summarises what to expect for those involved in face-to-face lobbying of MSPs, members of the Scottish Government, junior Ministers, Special Advisers or Permanent Secretary.