What is the primary function of the committees within the Scottish Parliament?

The primary function of the committees within the Scottish Parliament is to scrutinize legislation and hold the government accountable. Committees play a crucial role in the parliamentary process by examining proposed laws in detail, assessing their potential impacts, and providing recommendations based on their findings. They invite expert opinions, gather evidence, and engage with the public, ensuring that the voices and concerns of various stakeholders are considered.

This scrutiny is essential for the democratic process, as it helps to maintain checks and balances on the government’s actions and decisions. By holding the government accountable, committees contribute to more transparent and responsible governance.

While drafting new legislation, managing parliamentary finances, and overseeing election procedures are important aspects of parliamentary activity, they are not the primary focus of committee work. Committees are specifically designed to ensure that the legislative process is held under rigorous examination, thus safeguarding democratic principles in Scotland.