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PREFACE
The Scotland Act makes clear that any act or omission of any of the Scottish Ministers shall be treated as an act or omission of them all. This concept of the collective responsibility of the Scottish Ministers requires that procedures are in place, and are adhered to, for collective decision-making. This Guide sets out the principles of and procedures for collective decision-making. It works on the premise that:
- All the business of the Government, including decisions, announcements, expenditure plans, proposed legislation and appointments, engages the collective responsibility of the Government as a whole and must be handled with an appropriate degree of consultation and discussion so as to ensure the support of all Ministers;
- Ministers have the opportunity to express their views frankly as decisions are reached;
- Opinions expressed and advice offered within the Government remain private;
- Decisions of the Government are binding on and supported by the Scottish Ministers;
- Mechanisms for sharing information and resolving disputes are followed.
The following pages provide detailed guidance for colleagues on arrangements for supporting collective decision-making by the Scottish Ministers. These arrangements are designed to facilitate the efficient and effective conduct of business within the Government and it is important that all staff who are involved in working with Ministers are familiar with the guidance and implement it appropriately when taking forward work on issues on which a Ministerial decision is required.
The Cabinet Secretariat should be approached for advice in any case where there is doubt about the most appropriate way of handling such issues.
SIR JOHN ELVIDGE KCB
Permanent Secretary
2008
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