Scottish Government

The Public Health etc (Scotland) Act 2008 updates the law on public health, enabling Scottish Ministers, health boards and local authorities to better protect public health in Scotland. It will also assist Scottish Ministers to meet their obligations under the International Health Regulations.

The Act also makes provision relating to the use, sale or hire of sunbeds, clarifies statutory responsibility for the provision of mortuaries and post mortem facilities and amends the law on statutory nuisances.

The Act gained Royal Assent on 16 July 2008 and the Scottish Government is currently working with key stakeholders to produce guidance to assist the implementation of the Act.

The website is split into two main sections:

The Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008 :

• A brief overview of the Act
• A printable version of the Act and the Explanatory Notes
• The journey of the Act through the Scottish Parliament
• Regulations and Commencement Orders

Implementation of the Act:

• Details of the Working Groups established to develop implementation guidance
• Implementation Timetable
• The Communications Plan
• The Education and Training Framework
• Consultation
• Guidance to assist implementation of the Act
• Materials for Sunbed Operators

The website also has a Latest News section that will be updated regularly with information on progress on implementation, including consultation arrangements on draft guidance and regulations.