EU justice summit

The interests of Scotland’s unique justice system must be protected as part of the UK’s negotiations with the EU, according to Justice Secretary Michael Matheson.

Mr Matheson is bringing together some of Scotland’s top justice and legal experts for an EU justice summit in Edinburgh on Thursday (24 November). The session will consider the implications and risks Brexit may pose to Scotland.

With attendance to include the police and the legal profession – alongside the Justice Secretary and Lord Advocate – the summit will involve round table discussions on law enforcement, criminal justice, civil and family law and commercial issues.

Michael Matheson said:

“The UK Brexit vote raises many uncertainties for Scotland’s unique justice system. That is why I am bringing together leaders and experts to help us understand these issues – and any steps we can take now to mitigate the risks.

“The cessation of EU membership and single market access would have significant and wide-ranging ramifications from a justice and legal perspective.

“The issues range from tackling cross-border crime through to an individual with an EU ex-partner securing child maintenance payment, from Europol coordination with other countries to protecting Scots consumers’ rights when buying from abroad online.

“The summit discussions will help inform us of risks like these – and others – as the Scottish Government continues to press for full involvement in all negotiations between the UK Government and the EU.

“Despite the uncertainties caused by the threat of Brexit, we will continue our efforts to safeguard Scotland’s communities and the integrity of our justice system, while protecting the personal and commercial interests of our families, consumers and businesses.”

Background

The summit takes place at St Andrew’s House in Edinburgh on 24 November and will consider implications and impacts of the EU referendum result on aspects of the justice system, as supported by Parliament in the debate earlier this month.

Hosted by Mr Matheson, attendance is expected from: Police Scotland, Scottish Police Authority, Scottish Prison Service, Faculty of Advocates, Law Society of Scotland, Scottish Institute for Policing Research, Scottish Courts & Tribunals Service, Family Law Association, Scottish Universities Legal Network on Europe, Forum conveniens (EU IPL) and the Standing Council on Europe.

Mr Matheson welcomed the UK Government’s recent decision to sign up to a revised Europol co-operation framework: http://news.gov.scot/news/europol-collobaration-to-aid-fight-against-criminals