Scotland joins European law academy
29 Sep 05
Move hailed as recognition of Scotland's distinct legal system
The Lord Advocate Colin Boyd QC will sign an accession document entering Scotland into the Academy of European Law (ERA) tonight.
The move, in recognition of Scotland's distinct legal system, will be marked at a reception in Edinburgh Castle, and is a highlight of the ERA conference being held in Edinburgh this week. Mr Boyd will also give the keynote introductory speech at the opening of the conference this afternoon.
Mr Boyd said: "I am delighted that Scotland as a nation has decided to join ERA. In doing so we acknowledge the immense contribution that ERA has made to the development of law in the European Union. I hope this marks the beginning of a fruitful and beneficial relationship.
"The UK is already a member of ERA, but this move recognises Scotland as a unique and distinctive jurisdiction in Europe. Modern Scottish law is founded on the principles of Roman-Dutch law, but has also been deeply influenced by English common law. We hope that this unique perspective means that we bring something of value to the knowledge and understanding of European law."
Dr Wolfgang Heusel, Director of ERA, said: "Distinguished Scots such as Professor Sir David Edward and Sir Thomas Macpherson have long supported ERA in an advisory capacity and there has been a Scottish component on our staff for several years. But now Scotland will be able to help shape the policy of our institution's activities in the interest of the distinct Scottish legal and judicial culture.
"I am sure that Scotland's accession today will provide a strong foundation for much closer co-operation in the future, and I am looking forward both to welcoming more Scottish lawyers and judges to our training seminars on the continent and to organising more conferences in Scotland, such as the one on criminal justice that started today."