Section 8: Objections and representations
30.Section 8 enables the Scottish Ministers to make rules in relation to objections made in respect of an application for an order (subsection (1)(a)(i)) or when they are making an order without an application being made to them (subsection (1)(a)(ii)). The power to make rules includes the ability to make provision in relation to representations.
31.Subsections (2) and (4) provide that the Scottish Ministers must take any objection into consideration before deciding whether or not to make an order, unless they decide to hold an inquiry or hearing, in which case, they must consider the report from the inquiry or hearing before making an order. Subsection (3) enables the Scottish Ministers to disregard an objection if it is withdrawn or they consider it to be frivolous or trivial or it relates to compensation. Subsection (5) states that rules may allow the Scottish Ministers to waive some of the rules under this section which would otherwise apply. In addition, the rules may allow the Scottish Ministers to require compliance with certain rules which would not otherwise comply. Subsection (8) enables the Scottish Ministers to make rules in respect of representations.