Her Majesty’s Government has taken notice of the recent developments regarding the advisory referendum on the devolution of matters relating to welfare to the Scottish Parliament, and wishes to clarify its position on this particular matter.

The Government is aware of the multitude of diverging and sometimes contradictory legal opinions regarding the legality of the aforementioned referendum. The government notes that the Scottish Government is within their rights to dispute the legality of such a referendum under the Scotland Act 1998. The government would like to reiterate with some emphasis that it considers this situation as a matter for the devolved administration of Scotland, their respective legal advisors and the relevant courts, should any of the involved parties feel compelled to seek a legal solution. Her Majesty’s Government will seek to facilitate dialogue between all parties involved to come to an agreeable solution and act as a mediator if deemed necessary.

This government will continue to be in close contact with the Scottish Government on this matter and abides by the principle of responsible devolution, which mandates that any further devolution is contingent on a fair referendum question verified by the Electoral Commission, the consent of the devolved assembly and at least an initial report on how such devolution would be implemented.

This statement was delivered by The Right Honourable The Baron Rhinemouth PC, The Leader of the House of Lords on behalf of Her Majesty's 24th Government.