EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Act of Sederunt)

This Act of Sederunt amends the Act of Sederunt (Messengers-at-Arms and Sheriff Officers Rules) 1991 in respect of several matters.

Paragraph 2(2) of the Act of Sederunt provides that Continuous Professional Development which is set down by the Society of Messengers-at-Arms and Sheriff Officers shall be compulsory.

Paragraph 2(3) of the Act of Sederunt inserts a rule into the section of the 1991 Rules dealing with examinations. This provides that members of the Board of Examiners can be reappointed after an initial period of three years in office.

Paragraph 2(4) of the Act of Sederunt alters the 1991 Rules to change out of date references to the Companies Act 1985 to reflect the legislation which is now relevant, the Companies Act 2006.

Paragraph 2(5) of the Act of Sederunt updates the 1991 Rules to include “Member of the Scottish Parliament” in the list of extra-official activities which must not be undertaken by Officers of Court. Paragraph 2(5) also adds “insolvency practitioner” to this list.

Paragraph 2(6) of the Act of Sederunt insets a new rule 18A into the 1991 Rules to provide a legislative basis for the keeping of a central register of Officers of Court by the Society of Messengers-at-Arms and Sheriff Officers.