EDINBURGH, Scotland, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- New EU proposals regarding terrorism have been blocked by Scottish members of Parliament over a consultation dispute.
The Scottish government was allegedly never consulted regarding the terrorism proposals, which Scottish officials argue must occur before a European Commission agreement can be formally introduced laying out a framework of anti-terror laws to be adopted by member states, the Scotsman reported.
British Home Office Minister Tom McNulty argues that a consultation with Scotland is unnecessary because counter-terrorism is not devolved. But Michael Connarty, Labor MP for Linlithgow and East Falkirk, Scotland, says that counter-terrorism strategies were pursued using domestic laws and Scotland has its own justice system that would then require a consultation.
"One of the reasons we have decided not to pass this is because they have not consulted the Scottish devolved administration," Connarty said in a statement. "The minister's view was that it was a reserved matter, but it's not when you look at the Scotland Act."
Additionally Connarty says the European Commission shouldn't be involved with anti-terror laws. Connarty argues that is should be a matter for national governments.
