These Regulations modify the expiry dates for certain temporary measures which are contained in the Coronavirus (Recovery and Reform) (Scotland) Act 2022 (“the 2022 Act”).

Paragraph 21 of the schedule of the 2022 Act makes temporary provision in respect of the time limits that apply in criminal cases which can only be prosecuted summarily (i.e. without a jury). Paragraphs 25 and 26 of the schedule of the 2022 Act make temporary provision in relation to the early release of prisoners. Regulation 2 provides that those paragraphs will all expire at the end of 29 November 2024, instead of at the end of 30 November 2024.

Saving provision is made in regulation 3, so that the time limits under paragraph 21 will continue to have effect in relation to offences which are alleged to have been committed prior to the end of 29 November 2024.

A Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment for these Regulations is available online at www.legislation.gov.uk.

A Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment was published for the Bill which led to the 2022 Act and is available on the Scottish Government’s website: Coronavirus (Recovery and Reform) Scotland) Bill: business and regulatory impact assessment – gov.scot (www.gov.scot).