A SCOTTISH pubs code came a step closer last night (November 26) when MSPs voted to progress proposed legislation to the next stage.
The Tied Pubs (Scotland) Bill was introduced to the Scottish Parliament by Labour MSP Neil Bibby in February. It was then scrutinised by the parliament’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee (which earlier this month voted not to support the legislation) before being debated in the main chamber of the parliament last night.
The legislation proposes the creation of a pubs code governing the relationship between pub companies and their tied tenants similar to the one in place in England and Wales, and the appointment of an adjudicator to oversee it. It will now progress to the second stage on its way to becoming law after the parliament voted 107 votes to 0 (with four abstentions) to back the “general principles” of the Bill last night.
Bills pass through three stages on their way through parliament before becoming law, with amendments able to be added at the second and third stages.
Posting on social media after the vote Bibby said he was “delighted” the Bill had been approved at stage one.
“Two weeks ago the Economy Committee recommended voting the Tied Pubs Bill down,” he said.
“But that didn’t stop our coalition continuing to fight for change.
“I am delighted today we have won cross party support at stage one.
“Thanks to all the organisations, tenants, consumers, trade unions and others who have supported the Bill.
“I look forward to working with the Scottish Government and other parties to progress this vital legislation in the coming weeks.”
