The regulations contain some drafting errors. First, regulation 2(5) inserts new subparagraphs 1(v) and 1(w) in part IA of schedule 2 to the National Health Service (General Dental Services) (Scotland) Regulations 2010 (SSI 2010/208)—the principal regulations. As subparagraph 1(v) already exists, the new subparagraphs should have been inserted as 1(w) and 1(x).
Secondly, the provisions of part IA of schedule 2 to the principal regulations apply to those persons who apply to join sub-part A of the first part of the dental list in Scotland. Part IA lists matters that are to be included in that application. Sub-part A consists of a list of dentists and bodies corporate that have undertaken to provide general dental services in a health board’s area.
Part II of schedule 2 to the principal regulations applies to those persons who apply to join the second part of the dental list. Part II lists matters that are to be included in that application. The second part consists of dentists who are approved by a health board to assist in the provision of general dental services. There is an omission, as the Scottish Government intends that the provisions of new subparagraphs 1(v) and 1(w), to which I have just referred, should have been replicated in part II of schedule 2 to the principal regulations.
The Scottish Government intends to lay an amending instrument early in the next parliamentary session to correct those errors.
Does the committee agree to draw the regulations to the attention of the Parliament on the general reporting ground, as they contain a couple of drafting errors?
Members indicated agreement.