MSP Rona Mackay has said the new Programme for Government in Scotland ushers in a new era for justice.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a host of new policies and new bills that will go to the Scottish Parliament in 2017/18.
Ms Mackay, who is the deputy convener of the parliament’s Justice Committee, told how radical plans for law and order in Scotland have been put forward.
Ms Mackay said: “Criminal justice in Scotland has received gigantic a shot in the arm with the announcements made by the SNP First Minister.
“I very much welcome plans to protect the police budget in real terms – there no task more important than keeping the citizens of Scotland safe in their homes.
“I would like to especially note the new drug driving policy that will come into force in 2019, which will go leaps and bounds into keeping our roads safer.
“There is no place for drug driving in Scotland – and any who would be so stupid, to put lives at risk by driving under the influence of drugs, will soon feel the full force of the law.
“With the increasing of the age of criminal responsibility to 12-years-old from eight, we will see young children kept out of the traumatising experience of going through courts. It is high time this was brought in line with the just standards of our international allies – it is cruel, unethical and puts children at risk of long-term problems by having them dragged through the stressful trials and tribulations of the justice system.
“The SNP government’s plan to explore a basic citizen’s income is actually one of the most radical plans put forward. This is an idea that is worth exploring, and it is very bold – so I appreciate this from our government. We cannot just deny exploring the profound and far-reaching policy ideas.
“I couldn’t be happier at the Programme for Government that Nicola Sturgeon has put forward – it represents a truly progressive vision for Scotland. It is one where we ensure we grow our economy and develop our nation in an inclusive and modern way.”
ENDS
More info from Nicola Sturgeon’s speech: https://www.snp.org/first_minister_nicola_sturgeon_scottish_programme_for_government