A sharp slice of what matters in Scottish law
Scottish Edition
7th July 2026
 
THE HOT STORY
Police Federation calls for more stop and search powers
The Scottish Police Federation has called for ministers to review stop-and-search legislation introduced in 2017, arguing officers need greater powers to tackle rising knife crime among young people. The federation says requiring reasonable suspicion limits police effectiveness, as more teenagers are being found carrying knives, with incidents involving under-18s increasing significantly last year. It has proposed broader search powers similar to those used in designated areas under public order legislation. The Scottish Government said intelligence-led stop and search remains an important policing tool and highlighted investment in youth violence prevention, education and policing.

 
CASES
Johnson & Johnson asbestos lawsuit to go ahead
A group of Scottish women has received permission to sue Johnson & Johnson over allegations that its talcum powder caused cancer. They claim the company was aware of the carcinogenic risks associated with tremolite, a type of asbestos, for decades. The lawsuit marks the first contaminated-talc case in the Scottish courts. The case follows similar legal actions in England and Wales, where thousands are also suing J&J. Dominic Ritchie, Partner and Head of Group Actions at Jones Whyte, commented: "This is an important step for people in Scotland who believe they were harmed by these products. Anyone in Scotland who used Johnson & Johnson talcum powder and has since been diagnosed with cancer should feel able to come forward."
J.K. Rowling backs challenge over girl's placement
J. K. Rowling has offered to fund legal action on behalf of a 13-year-old girl housed with older male teenagers at St Mary's Kenmure secure unit in Glasgow. The offer follows a report by the Council of Europe’s anti-torture committee, which said the girl's complaints about feeling unsafe were ignored. Critics described the placement as dangerous, while inspectors also highlighted concerns over restraint practices, safeguarding failures and staffing levels. St Mary's said all placements were carefully assessed, while the Scottish Government said further reforms to secure care were under way.
Teens cleared of murdering 15-year-old in sword attack
Two teenagers have been cleared of murdering 15-year-old Amen Teklay, who died after being stabbed through the heart during a confrontation in Glasgow in March 2025. A High Court jury found both boys, now aged 16 and 17, not guilty after the younger defendant argued he acted in self-defence. The trial heard the fatal incident followed a long-running feud involving weapons. Amen's family reacted emotionally to the verdict and said they hoped his legacy would promote positive change and help steer young people away from violence.

 
REGULATION
FCA calls for stricter AI oversight
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has called for tighter oversight of AI in financial services, having warned that the technology will significantly impact retail finance over the next decade. The report suggests expanding the FCA's regulatory scope and creating a public-interest AI financial guidance service.
PLANNING
Scotland considers freeze on AI datacentre developments
Scotland's government is considering a moratorium on new data centres after an SNP motion warned planned developments could overwhelm renewable energy capacity. The move threatens projects linked to the UK's artificial intelligence strategy, which has promoted Scotland as a key location for data infrastructure.
TAX
Scottish Government to consult on 'mansion tax'
Scotland's deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth has announced plans for a new "mansion tax", with proposals to create new council tax bands for homes valued at more than £1m and more than £2m. A consultation has been launched on the proposals, with an indicative scenario suggesting that council tax could rise by £720 for the owners of £1m homes, and by £3,600 for the owners of £2m homes. The Scottish Government has estimated that the new bands would raise a total of between £12m and £16m for local authorities - an average of £500,000 per council.
OTHER
Burnham would oppose second independence referendum
Andy Burnham has ruled out supporting a second Scottish independence referendum if he becomes prime minister, according to reports of a meeting with Scottish Labour MPs. His stance comes despite the Scottish Government's renewed push for a vote by 2028 following May's Holyrood election. SNP and Green politicians criticised the position, while Scottish Labour argued voters were more focused on improving public services than constitutional change.

 

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