Consultation on provisions for a future islands bill: analysis of responses

Annex 1: The consultation questions

Question 1: Is the concept of 'island-proofing' something the Scottish Government should consider placing in legislation through the proposed Islands Bill Yes/No? Please explain the reasons for your answer.

Question 2: If you answered 'Yes' to question 1, do you agree that Scottish Ministers should have the power to issue statutory guidance to other relevant public bodies related to island-proofing which they would be required to adhere to in exercising their functions and duties Yes/No

Question 3: If you answered 'Yes' to question 2, please state which public bodies, and what specific decisions you think this statutory guidance should relate to?

Question 4: Are there any other areas that you feel the policy of island-proofing should cover?

Question 5: Do you agree that the current powers Island Councils, and Councils with Island responsibilities presently have are sufficient to deliver positive outcomes for their local island communities Yes/No?

Question 6: If you answered 'No' to question 5, please outline what additional powers you feel they require to benefit or better protect the island communities they serve, and explain the reasons for your answer.

Question 7: Do you feel there is a requirement to make any additions to the existing Zetland and Orkney County Council Acts of 1974 Yes/No? If 'Yes' please state what additions should be made and give the reasons for your answer.

Question 8: Should any of the powers currently set out in the Zetland and Orkney County Council Acts of 1974 be extended to the Western Isles and other relevant Councils Yes/No? If 'Yes' please explain which powers and give the reasons for your answer.

Question 9: Do you think the Scottish Government should introduce a 'National Islands Plan' Yes/No? Please explain the reasons for your answer.

Question 10: Are there any specific areas you feel the plan should cover and report on?

Question 11: If such a plan was introduced, what in your view would be an appropriate life span for the plan - e.g. 3 years/5 years/other?

Question 12: Do you agree that statutory protection should be given to the Na h-Eileanan an Iar Scottish parliamentary constituency Yes/No? Please explain the reasons for your answer.

Question 13: Should the Scottish Government consider amending the Local Governance (Scotland) Act 2004 to allow the LGBCS the power to make an exception to the usual 3 or 4 member ward rule for use with respect to populated islands Yes/No? Please explain the reasons for your answer.

Question 14: Please provide details of any additional issues, not addressed in your other responses, that you think should be considered in relation to the introduction of a future Islands Bill and its potential provisions.