Scottish Government

News Releases:

Monday 03/01/2005

Book now for 2011 Census [People and Society]

The Registrar General for Scotland is already seeking views on proposals for the 2011 Census.

Sunday 02/01/2005

New Book of Scottish Connections [People and Society]

Book offers opportunity for millions of people in all corners of the globe to record a birth, death or marriage in Scotland.

Saturday 01/01/2005

New rights to information from 10,000 public bodies [Government]

Freedom of Information Act comes into force giving anyone access to information held by public bodies.

Friday 31/12/2004

Cheers! Don't ruin Hogmanay celebrations [Health and Community Care]

Party-goers reminded of the damage excessive drinking can cause.

Don't fool with fireworks [Law, Order and Public Safety]

Advice is to be safe, not sorry, as the New Year dawns.

New Years Honours List 2005 [Government]

Richard John Staite OBE, headteacher at Penicuik’s Beeslack Community High School, awarded a knighthood.

Over £1m confiscated from Scotland's criminals [Law, Order and Public Safety]

Civil Recovery Unit has successfully secured the money having taken 38 cases to civil courts throughout the country.

Thursday 30/12/2004

Days of Auld Lang Syne [Government]

Scotland's ambitions for 2005 will build on old relationships as new links are forged - First Minister.

Funding for community transport projects [Transport]

Projects across Scotland which help people living in rural areas access vital services receive £925,230.

Indian Ocean Crisis - Minister meets with aid organisations [Government]

Meeting to discuss organisations' response to disaster and how the Scottish government can help their efforts.

Night Afore International [Government]

Carnival to mark special relationship between Scotland and France kicks off four days of Hogmanay celebrations.

Providing greater confidence in school trips [Education and Training]

Publication of a guide to health and safety on educational excusions.

Wednesday 29/12/2004

Indian Ocean tsunami [Government]

Emergency phone number and links to latest information on situation in south-east Asia.

New regulations for homeless hostels [People and Society]

Aim is to improve conditions and set out minimum rights and responsibilities for hostel users.

Scottish Legal Aid Board [Law, Order and Public Safety]

New members appointed.

Sweden finds a liking for Scotland [Tourism]

The number of Swedish tourists has almost doubled in the last two years.

Treasure Trove find while out for a walk [Arts and Culture]

Two children hand in bronze age arrowhead to National Museums of Scotland.

Tuesday 28/12/2004

Local Government Finance Review [Government]

Details of the independent review committee now online with new website.

Monday 27/12/2004

Councils gain discretion over tax on second homes [Government]

Order laid in Parliament allowing reduction in current 50 per cent rate of council tax on second homes.

Pregnant women and lambing [Agriculture]

Medical advice for pregnant women to stay clear of sheep during lambing season.