(230)  EXECUTIVE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED

On 28 May 2003 the First Minister announced the initial legislative programme for the second Scottish Parliament, consisting of fourteen Bills altogether.  These include Bills on NHS reform, medical, water and fire services, nature conservation, education and school meals.  Amongst the Bills of particular relevance to the legal system are ones on vulnerable witnesses, court reform (to improve the efficiency of the High Court of Justiciary), anti-social behaviour,  and local governance.  Also announced were consultations on legislation to deal with the modernisation of personal bankruptcy and diligence laws, securing the status of Gaelic, and to improve the transport infrastructure.