Powers of entry and step-in power: further provision
86.Section 62 makes further provision for the purpose of the exercise by the Scottish Ministers of the powers in sections 45, 50, 51, 52, 53 and 59. As set out in subsection (2) of that section, this includes powers for the Scottish Ministers to take onto the land other persons, materials and equipment as may be reasonably be required; to take samples; to mark things for identification purposes; to require access to, inspect or take copies of information (including information kept in a computer) and to gather evidence. However, these powers may be exercised only at a reasonable time and do not authorise entry to a dwelling (subsections (3) and (4)). Moreover, a person exercising the power must on request produce written evidence of that person’s entitlement to do so (subsection (5)). If the Scottish Ministers cause damage in exercising the powers listed in subsection (1) they must take reasonable steps to remedy the damage or, if it is not possible to do so, must pay compensation (subsection (6)). If the Scottish Ministers enter unoccupied land in exercising the powers listed in subsection (1) they must leave the land as effectively secured against unauthorised entry as they found it and, if they cause loss or damage by failing to comply with that requirement, they must pay compensation (subsections (7) and (8)).
87.Subsection (9) provides that references to the Scottish Ministers in the sections listed from (a) to (g) include persons authorised (in writing) by the Scottish Ministers. This enables the Scottish Ministers to authorise persons to perform the specified functions on their behalf.
