Brexit mitigation powers used to protect Scotland's drinking water

Legislation passed to help deal with the impact of Brexit has been used for the first time, to protect Scotland’s drinking water.

The powers ensure that water north of the border aligns with standards set by the European Union.

Passed by MSPs at Holyrood, the EU Continuity Act 2020 makes sure that the country is able to maintain and advance standards shared between Scots and EU law – despite the UK having exited the EU.

New regulations under the Act this week will comply with updated standards set by the World Health Organisation that limit pollutants and endocrine-disrupting compounds.

“Scotland’s drinking water is renowned for its excellent quality all over the world and we will be relentless in ensuring it stays this way and meets the highest of standards,” constitution secretary Angus Robertson said.

“These latest steps we are taking, to maintain those standards, are a prime example of our commitment to rejoin the EU and align with its policies.

“Through such action, we will continue to protect the health and wellbeing of people in Scotland and also ease the future process of Scotland’s return to the EU.

“This is in stark contrast to the approach being taken by the UK Government, intent on undermining retained EU law which will be hugely damaging to people and businesses in Scotland.

“We’re determined to continue to be an active and constructive participant on EU matters, which will ease the process of Scotland’s future return to the EU.”