Citation, commencement and interpretation

1.–(1) This Act of Sederunt may be cited as the Act of Sederunt (Sheriff Court Rules) (Miscellaneous Amendments) 2008 and shall come into force on 1st July 2008.

(2) This Act of Sederunt shall be inserted in the Books of Sederunt.

(3) In this Act of Sederunt-

"the Ordinary Cause Rules" means the Ordinary Cause Rules in Schedule 1 to the Sheriff Courts (Scotland) Act 1907(5);

"the Summary Application Rules" means the Act of Sederunt (Summary Applications, Statutory Applications and Appeals etc Rules) 1999(6);

"the Summary Cause Rules" means the Act of Sederunt (Summary Cause Rules) 2002(7)

"the Small Claim Rules" means the Act of Sederunt (Small Claim Rules) 2002(8);

"the Judicial Factor Rules" means the Act of Sederunt (Judicial Factors Rules) 1992(9);

"the Company Insolvency Rules" means the Act of Sederunt (Sheriff Court Company Insolvency Rules) 1986(10).

Late appearance in family actions and civil partnership actions

2.–(1) The Ordinary Cause Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) After rule 33.33 insert-

"Late appearance and application for recall by defenders

33.33A.–(1) In a cause mentioned in rule 33.1(a) to (h), (n) or (o), the sheriff may, at any stage of the action before the granting of final decree, make an order with such conditions, if any, as he thinks fit-

(a) directing that a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend be treated as if he had lodged such a notice and the period of notice had expired on the date on which the order was made; or

(b) allowing a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend to appear and be heard at a diet of proof although he has not lodged defences, but he shall not, in that event, be allowed to lead evidence without the pursuer´s consent.

(2) Where the sheriff makes an order under paragraph (1), the pursuer may recall a witness already examined or lead other evidence whether or not he closed his proof before that order was made.

(3) Where no order under paragraph (1) has been sought by a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend and decree is granted against him, the sheriff may, on an application made within 14 days of the date of the decree, and with such conditions, if any, as he thinks fit, make an order recalling the decree.

(4) Where the sheriff makes an order under paragraph (3), the cause shall thereafter proceed as if the defender had lodged a notice of intention to defend and the period of notice had expired on the date on which the decree was recalled.

(5) An application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall be made by note setting out the proposed defence and explaining the defender´s failure to appear.

(6) An application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall not affect any right of appeal the defender may otherwise have.

(7) A note lodged in an application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall be served on the pursuer and any other party.".

(3) After rule 33A.33(11) insert-

"Late appearance and application for recall by defenders

33A.33A.–(1) In a cause mentioned in rule 33A.1(a), (b) or (f), the sheriff may, at any stage of the action before the granting of final decree, make an order with such conditions, if any, as he thinks fit-

(a) directing that a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend be treated as if he had lodged such a notice and the period of notice had expired on the date on which the order was made; or

(b) allowing a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend to appear and be heard at a diet of proof although he has not lodged defences, but he shall not, in that event, be allowed to lead evidence without the pursuer´s consent.

(2) Where the sheriff makes an order under paragraph (1), the pursuer may recall a witness already examined or lead other evidence whether or not he closed his proof before that order was made.

(3) Where no order under paragraph (1) has been sought by a defender who has not lodged a notice of intention to defend and decree is granted against him, the sheriff may, on an application made within 14 days of the date of the decree, and with such conditions, if any, as he thinks fit, make an order recalling the decree.

(4) Where the sheriff makes an order under paragraph (3), the cause shall thereafter proceed as if the defender had lodged a notice of intention to defend and the period of notice had expired on the date on which the decree was recalled.

(5) An application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall be made by note setting out the proposed defence and explaining the defender´s failure to appear.

(6) An application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall not affect any right of appeal the defender may otherwise have.

(7) A note lodged in an application under paragraph (1) or (3) shall be served on the pursuer and any other party.".

Pension Protection Fund notification in family actions and civil partnership actions

3.–(1) The Ordinary Cause Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) After rule 33.51 insert-

"Pension Protection Fund notification

33.51A.–(1) In this rule-

"assessment period" shall be construed in accordance with section 132 of the Pensions Act 2004(12);

"pension arrangement" shall be construed in accordance with the definition in section 27 of the Act of 1985; and

"valuation summary" shall be construed in accordance with the definition in Schedule 2 to the Pension Protection Fund (Provision of Information) Regulations 2005(13).

(2) This rule applies where a party at any stage in the proceedings applies for an order under section 8 or section 16 of the Act of 1985.

(3) Where the party against whom an order referred to in paragraph (2) is sought has received notification in compliance with the Pension Protection Fund (Provision of Information) Regulations 2005 or does so after the order is sought-

(a) that there is an assessment period in relation to his pension arrangement; or

(b) that the Board of the Pension Protection Fund has assumed responsibility for all or part of his pension arrangement,

he shall comply with paragraph (4).

(4) The party shall-

(a) lodge the notification; and

(b) obtain and lodge as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter-

(i) a valuation summary; and

(ii) a forecast of his compensation entitlement.

(5) Subject to paragraph (6), the notification referred to in paragraph (4)(a) requires to be lodged-

(a) where the notification is received before the order is sought, within 7 days of the order being sought;

(b) where the notification is received after the order is sought, within 7 days of receiving the notification.

(6) Where an order is sought against the defender before the defences are lodged, and the notification is received before that step occurs, the notification shall be lodged with the defences.

(7) At the same time as lodging documents under paragraph (4), copies shall be sent to the other party to the proceedings.".

(3) After rule 33A.48(14) insert-

"Pension Protection Fund notification

33A.48A.–(1) In this rule-

"assessment period" shall be construed in accordance with section 132 of the Pensions Act 2004;

"pension arrangement" shall be construed in accordance with the definition in section 27 of the Act of 1985; and

"valuation summary" shall be construed in accordance with the definition in Schedule 2 to the Pension Protection Fund (Provision of Information) Regulations 2005.

(2) This rule applies where a party at any stage in the proceedings applies for an order under section 8 or section 16 of the Act of 1985.

(3) Where the party against whom an order referred to in paragraph (2) is sought has received notification in compliance with the Pension Protection Fund (Provision of Information) Regulations 2005 or does so after the order is sought-

(a) that there is an assessment period in relation to his pension arrangement; or

(b) that the Board of the Pension Protection Fund has assumed responsibility for all or part of his pension arrangement,

he shall comply with paragraph (4).

(4) The party shall-

(a) lodge the notification; and

(b) obtain and lodge as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter-

(i) a valuation summary; and

(ii) a forecast of his compensation entitlement.

(5) Subject to paragraph (6), the notification referred to in paragraph (4)(a) requires to be lodged-

(a) where the notification is received before the order is sought, within 7 days of the order being sought;

(b) where the notification is received after the order is sought, within 7 days of receiving the notification.

(6) Where an order is sought against the defender before the defences are lodged, and the notification is received before that step occurs, the notification shall be lodged with the defences.

(7) At the same time as lodging documents under paragraph (4), copies shall be sent to the other party to the proceedings.".

Interventions in proceedings

4.–(1) The Ordinary Cause Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) After Chapter 13 insert-

"CHAPTER 13A INTERVENTIONS BY THE COMMISSION FOR EQUALITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

13A.1. In this Chapter "the CEHR" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

Interventions by the CEHR

13A.2.–(1) The CEHR may apply to the sheriff for leave to intervene in any cause in accordance with this Chapter.

(2) This Chapter is without prejudice to any other entitlement of the CEHR by virtue of having title and interest in relation to the subject matter of any proceedings by virtue of section 30(2) of the Equality Act 2006(15) or any other enactment to seek to be sisted as a party in those proceedings.

(3) Nothing in this Chapter shall affect the power of the sheriff to make such other direction as he considers appropriate in the interests of justice.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Applications to intervene

13A.3.–(1) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form O7A and the CEHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) A minute of intervention shall set out briefly-

(a) the CEHR´s reasons for believing that the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the issue in the proceedings which the CEHR wishes to address; and

(c) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR and the CEHR´s reasons for believing that they are relevant to the proceedings and that they will assist the sheriff.

(3) The sheriff may-

(a) refuse leave without a hearing;

(b) grant leave without a hearing unless a hearing is requested under paragraph (4);

(c) refuse or grant leave after such a hearing.

(4) A hearing, at which the applicant and the parties may address the court on the matters referred to in paragraph (6)(c), may be held if, within 14 days of the minute of intervention being lodged, any of the parties lodges a request for a hearing.

(5) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (4) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

(6) The sheriff may grant leave only if satisfied that-

(a) the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR are relevant to the proceedings and are likely to assist him; and

(c) the intervention will not unduly delay or otherwise prejudice the rights of the parties, including their potential liability for expenses.

(7) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(8) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the CEHR and all the parties.

Form of intervention

13A.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The CEHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

CHAPTER 13B INTERVENTIONS BY THE SCOTTISH COMMISSION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

13B.1. In this Chapter-

"the Act of 2006" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights Act 2006; and

"the SCHR" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights.

Application to intervene

13B.2.–(1) An application for leave to intervene under section 14(2)(a) of the Act of 2006 shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form O7B and the SCHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(3) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the SCHR and all the parties.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Invitation to intervene

13B.3.–(1) An invitation to intervene under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006 shall be in Form O7C and the sheriff clerk shall send a copy of it to the SCHR and all the parties.

(2) An invitation under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by-

(a) a copy of the pleadings in the proceedings; and

(b) such other documents relating to those proceedings as the sheriff thinks relevant.

(3) In issuing an invitation under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006, the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

Form of intervention

13B.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The SCHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the SCHR and all the parties.".

(3) In Chapter 44(16)-

(a) after rule 44.1(2) there is inserted-

"(3) In this Chapter "the Commission" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.".

(b) for rule 44.2 (relevant Commission) there is substituted-

"Intimation to Commission

44.2. The pursuer shall send a copy of the initial writ to the Commission by registered or recorded delivery post.".

(c) rule 44.4 (taxation of Commission expenses) is omitted.

(4) In Appendix 1, after Form O7 insert the forms set out in Schedule 1 to this Act of Sederunt.

5.–(1) The Summary Application Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) In Part II of Chapter 2 at the end insert-

"Interventions by the CEHR

2.37.–(1) In this rule and in rule 2.38, "the CEHR" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

(2) The CEHR may apply to the sheriff for leave to intervene in any summary application in accordance with this Rule.

(3) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 11AA and the CEHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that sub-paragraph (a) has been complied with.

(4) A minute of intervention shall set out briefly-

(a) the CEHR´s reasons for believing that the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the issue in the proceedings which the CEHR wishes to address; and

(c) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR and the CEHR´s reasons for believing that they are relevant to the proceedings and that they will assist the sheriff.

(5) The sheriff may-

(a) refuse leave without a hearing;

(b) grant leave without a hearing unless a hearing is requested under paragraph (6);

(c) refuse or grant leave after such a hearing.

(6) A hearing, at which the applicant and the parties may address the court on the matters referred to in paragraph (8)(c) may be held if, within 14 days of the minute of intervention being lodged, any of the parties lodges a request for a hearing.

(7) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (6) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

(8) The sheriff may grant leave only if satisfied that-

(a) the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR are relevant to the proceedings and are likely to assist him; and

(c) the intervention will not unduly delay or otherwise prejudice the rights of the parties, including their potential liability for expenses.

(9) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(10) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the CEHR and all the parties.

(11) This rule is without prejudice to any other entitlement of the CEHR by virtue of having title and interest in relation to the subject matter of any proceedings by virtue of section 30(2) of the Equality Act 2006 or any other enactment to seek to be sisted as a party in those proceedings.

(12) Nothing in this rule shall affect the power of the sheriff to make such other direction as he considers appropriate in the interests of justice.

(13) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this rule and rule 2.38 shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Form of intervention

2.38.–(1) An intervention by the CEHR shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The CEHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

Interventions by the SCHR

2.39.–(1) In this rule and in rules 2.40 and 2.41-

"the Act of 2006" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights Act 2006;

"the SCHR" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights.

(2) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 11AB and the SCHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(3) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(4) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the SCHR and all the parties.

(5) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this rule and rules 2.40 and 2.41 shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Invitations to intervene

2.40.–(1) An invitation to intervene under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006 shall be in Form 11AC and the sheriff clerk shall send a copy of it to the SCHR and all the parties.

(2) An invitation under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by-

(a) a copy of the pleadings in the proceedings; and

(b) such other documents relating to those proceedings as the sheriff thinks relevant.

(3) In issuing an invitation under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006, the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

Form of intervention

2.41.–(1) An intervention by the SCHR shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The SCHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the SCHR and all the parties.".

(3) In Part XXXIII (equality enactments)(17)-

(a) after rule 3.33.1(3) (application and interpretation) insert-

"(4) In this Part "the Commission" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.".

(b) for rule 3.33.2 (relevant Commission) substitute-

"Intimation to Commission

3.33.2. The applicant shall, except where the applicant is the Commission, send a copy of the initial writ to the Commission by registered or recorded delivery post.";

(c) rule 3.33.4 (taxation of Commission expenses) is omitted.

(4) In the Schedule, after Form 11 insert the forms set out in Schedule 2 to this Act of Sederunt.

6.–(1) The Summary Cause Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) After Chapter 14 insert-

"CHAPTER 13B INTERVENTIONS BY THE SCOTTISH COMMISSION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

14A.1. In this Chapter "the CEHR" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

Interventions by the CEHR

14A.2.–(1) The CEHR may apply to the sheriff for leave to intervene in any summary cause action in accordance with this Chapter.

(2) This Chapter is without prejudice to any other entitlement of the CEHR by virtue of having title and interest in relation to the subject matter of any proceedings by virtue of section 30(2) of the Equality Act 2006 or any other enactment to seek to be sisted as a party in those proceedings.

(3) Nothing in this Chapter shall affect the power of the sheriff to make such other direction as he considers appropriate in the interests of justice.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Applications to intervene

14A.3.–(1) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 23A and the CEHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) A minute of intervention shall set out briefly-

(a) the CEHR´s reasons for believing that the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the issue in the proceedings which the CEHR wishes to address; and

(c) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR and the CEHR´s reasons for believing that they are relevant to the proceedings and that they will assist the sheriff.

(3) The sheriff may-

(a) refuse leave without a hearing;

(b) grant leave without a hearing unless a hearing is requested under paragraph (4);

(c) refuse or grant leave after such a hearing.

(4) A hearing, at which the applicant and the parties may address the court on the matters referred to in paragraph (6)(c) may be held if, within 14 days of the minute of intervention being lodged, any of the parties lodges a request for a hearing.

(5) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (4) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

(6) The sheriff may grant leave only if satisfied that-

(a) the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR are relevant to the proceedings and are likely to assist him; and

(c) the intervention will not unduly delay or otherwise prejudice the rights of the parties, including their potential liability for expenses.

(7) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(8) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the CEHR and all the parties.

Form of intervention

14A.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The CEHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

CHAPTER 14B INTERVENTIONS BY THE SCOTTISH COMMISSION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

14B.1. In this Chapter-

"the Act of 2006" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights Act 2006; and

"the SCHR" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights.

Applications to intervene

14B.2.–(1) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 23B and the SCHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(3) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the SCHR and all the parties.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Invitations to intervene

14B.3.–(1) An invitation to intervene under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006 shall be in Form 23C and the sheriff clerk shall send a copy of it to the SCHR and all the parties.

(2) An invitation under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by-

(a) a copy of the pleadings in the proceedings; and

(b) such other documents relating to those proceedings as the sheriff thinks relevant.

(3) In issuing an invitation under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006, the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

Form of intervention

14B.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The SCHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the SCHR and all the parties.".

(3) In Chapter 36 (equality enactments)(18)-

(a) after rule 36.1(2) insert-

"(3) In this Chapter "the Commission" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.";

(b) for rule 36.2 (relevant Commission) substitute-

"Intimation to Commission

36.2. The pursuer shall send a copy of the summons to the Commission by registered or recorded delivery post.";

(c) rule 36.4 (taxation of Commission expenses) is omitted.

(4) In Appendix 1 after Form 23 insert the forms set out in Schedule 3 to this Act of Sederunt.

7.–(1) The Small Claim Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) After Chapter 13 insert-

"CHAPTER 13A INTERVENTIONS BY THE COMMISSION FOR EQUALITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

13A.1. In this Chapter "the CEHR" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

Interventions by the CEHR

13A.2.–(1) The CEHR may apply to the sheriff for leave to intervene in any small claim in accordance with this Chapter.

(2) This Chapter is without prejudice to any other entitlement of the CEHR by virtue of having title and interest in relation to the subject matter of any proceedings by virtue of section 30(2) of the Equality Act 2006 or any other enactment to seek to be sisted as a party in those proceedings.

(3) Nothing in this Chapter shall affect the power of the sheriff to make such other direction as he considers appropriate in the interests of justice.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Applications to intervene

13A.3.–(1) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 14A and the CEHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) A minute of intervention shall set out briefly-

(a) the CEHR´s reasons for believing that the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the issue in the proceedings which the CEHR wishes to address; and

(c) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR and the CEHR´s reasons for believing that they are relevant to the proceedings and that they will assist the sheriff.

(3) The sheriff may-

(a) refuse leave without a hearing;

(b) grant leave without a hearing unless a hearing is requested under paragraph (4);

(c) refuse or grant leave after such a hearing.

(4) A hearing, at which the applicant and the parties may address the court on the matters referred to in paragraph (6)(c) may be held if, within 14 days of the minute of intervention being lodged, any of the parties lodges a request for a hearing.

(5) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (4) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

(6) The sheriff may grant leave only if satisfied that-

(a) the proceedings are relevant to a matter in connection with which the CEHR has a function;

(b) the propositions to be advanced by the CEHR are relevant to the proceedings and are likely to assist him; and

(c) the intervention will not unduly delay or otherwise prejudice the rights of the parties, including their potential liability for expenses.

(7) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including, subject to section 36B of the Sheriff Courts (Scotland) Act 1971(19), making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(8) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the CEHR and all the parties.

Form of intervention

13A.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The CEHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the CEHR and all the parties.

CHAPTER 13B INTERVENTIONS BY THE SCOTTISH COMMISSION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Interpretation

13B.1. In this Chapter-

"the Act of 2006" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights Act 2006; and

"the SCHR" means the Scottish Commission for Human Rights.

Applications to intervene

13B.2.–(1) An application for leave to intervene shall be by way of minute of intervention in Form 14B and the SCHR shall-

(a) send a copy of it to all the parties; and

(b) lodge it in process, certifying that subparagraph (a) has been complied with.

(2) In granting leave the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including, subject to section 36B of the Sheriff Courts (Scotland) Act 1971, making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

(3) The sheriff clerk shall give written intimation of a grant or refusal of leave to the SCHR and all the parties.

(4) Any decision of the sheriff in proceedings under this Chapter shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Invitations to intervene

13B.3.–(1) An invitation to intervene under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006 shall be in Form 14C and the sheriff clerk shall send a copy of it to the SCHR and all the parties.

(2) An invitation under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by-

(a) a copy of the pleadings in the proceedings; and

(b) such other documents relating to those proceedings as the sheriff thinks relevant.

(3) In issuing an invitation under section 14(2)(b) of the Act of 2006, the sheriff may impose such terms and conditions as he considers desirable in the interests of justice, including, subject to section 36B of the Sheriff Courts (Scotland) Act 1971, making provision in respect of any additional expenses incurred by the parties as a result of the intervention.

Form of intervention

13B.4.–(1) An intervention shall be by way of a written submission which (including any appendices) shall not exceed 5000 words.

(2) The SCHR shall lodge the submission and send a copy of it to all the parties by such time as the sheriff may direct.

(3) The sheriff may in exceptional circumstances-

(a) allow a longer written submission to be made;

(b) direct that an oral submission is to be made.

(4) Any diet in pursuance of paragraph (3)(b) shall be fixed by the sheriff clerk who shall give written intimation of the diet to the SCHR and all the parties.".

(3) In Chapter 26 (equality enactments)(20)-

(a) after rule 26.1(2) insert-

"(3) In this Chapter "the Commission" means the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.".

(b) for rule 26.2 (relevant Commission) substitute-

"Intimation to Commission

26.2. The pursuer shall send a copy of the summons to the Commission by registered or recorded delivery post.";

(c) rule 26.4 (taxation of Commission expenses) is omitted.

(4) In Appendix 1 after Form 14 insert the forms set out in Schedule 4 to this Act of Sederunt.

Heritable summonses

8. After rule 30.8 of the Summary Cause Rules insert-

"30.9 Where, in response to a summons for the recovery of heritable property which includes a claim for payment of money, a defender makes a written application about payment, he shall not thereby be taken to be admitting the claim for recovery of possession of the heritable property.".

Council Regulation on insolvency proceedings

9.–(1) The Judicial Factors Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) In rule 2(1) (interpretation)(21)-

(a) after the definition of "the 1995 Act" insert-

""the Council Regulation" means Council Regulation (E.C.) 1346/2000 of 29th May 2000 on insolvency proceedings as it may be amended from time to time(22);"; and

(3) After rule 4 insert-

"Applications where grounds include insolvency

4.A. Where an application is for the appointment of a factor to an individual or estate that is insolvent the application shall contain averments in relation to jurisdiction under the Council Regulation, in particular stating, so far as known to the applicant-

(a) where the centre of main interests of the individual or estate is and whether the individual or estate has any other establishments in another member State; and

(b) whether there are insolvency proceedings elsewhere and whether these proceedings are main or territorial proceedings.".

10.–(1) The Company Insolvency Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) In rule 3(1) (interpretation)(23) after the definition of "the Act of 1986" insert-

""the Council Regulation" means Council Regulation (E.C.) 1346/2000 of 29th May 2000 on insolvency proceedings as it may be amended from time to time;".

(3) For rule 10(1)(h) (petitions for administration orders: averments)(24) substitute-

"(h) jurisdiction under the Council Regulation, in particular stating, so far as known to the petitioner-

(i) where the centre of main interests of the company is and whether the company has any other establishments in another member State;

(ii) whether there are insolvency proceedings elsewhere in respect of the company and whether those proceedings are main or territorial proceedings; and".

(4) After rule 18(1)(a) insert-

"(aa) averments in relation to jurisdiction under the Council Regulation, in particular stating, so far as known to the petitioner:-

(i) where the centre of main interests of the company is and whether the company has any other establishments in another member State;

(ii) whether there are insolvency proceedings elsewhere in respect of the company and whether those proceedings are main or territorial proceedings;".

Commissions for examination of witnesses

11. In rule 28.10 of the Ordinary Cause Rules (commissions for examinations of witnesses)(25) after paragraph (2) insert-

"(2A) A motion under paragraph (2) may include an application for authority to record the proceedings before the commissioner by video recorder:".

Representation in certain sheriff court proceedings

12. After rule 3 of the Company Insolvency Rules insert-

"Representation

3A.–(1) A party may be represented by any person authorised under any enactment to conduct proceedings in the sheriff court in accordance with the terms of that enactment.

(2) The person referred to in paragraph (1) may do everything for the preparation and conduct of the proceedings as may have been done by an individual conducting his own action.

(3) For the purposes of this rule, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish the Scottish Parliament.

Expenses

3B. A party who-

(a) is or has been represented by a person authorised under any enactment to conduct proceedings in the sheriff court; and

(b) would have been found entitled to expenses if he had been represented by a solicitor or an advocate,

may be awarded expenses or outlays to which a party litigant may be found entitled under the Litigants in Person (Cost and Expenses) Act 1975(26) or under any enactment under that Act.".

13. After rule 2 of the Judicial Factors Rules insert-

"Representation

2A.–(1) A party may be represented by any person authorised under any enactment to conduct proceedings in the sheriff court in accordance with the terms of that enactment.

(2) The person referred to in paragraph (1) may do everything for the preparation and conduct of the proceedings as may have been done by an individual conducting his own action.

(3) For the purposes of this rule, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.

Expenses

2B. A party who-

(a) is or has been represented by a person authorised under any enactment to conduct proceedings in the sheriff court; and

(b) would have been found entitled to expenses if he had been represented by a solicitor or an advocate,

may be awarded expenses or outlays to which a party litigant may be found entitled under the Litigants in Person (Cost and Expenses) Act 1975 or under any enactment under that Act.".

Other minor amendments

14.–(1) The Summary Application Rules are amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) Rules 2.33 (representation) and 2.34 (expenses) of the Summary Application Rules (being the rules bearing those numbers inserted by paragraph 3(5) of the Act of Sederunt (Ordinary Cause, Summary Application, Summary Cause and Small Claim Rules) Amendment (Miscellaneous) 2007)(27) are renumbered 2.35 and 2.36 respectively.

(3) Part II (betting and gaming appeals) of Chapter 3 of the Summary Application Rules (rules on applications under specific statutes) is omitted.

(4) In Part XIX (Proceeds of Crime Act 2002)(28), the heading "Civil recovery investigations"(29) immediately following rule 3.19.20 (appeals against determination of outlays and remuneration)(30) becomes "Civil recovery and detained cash investigations".

15.–(1) The Act of Sederunt (Consumer Credit Act 1974) 1985(31) is amended in accordance with the following subparagraphs.

(2) In rule 2 (interpretation)(32) for "1993" substitute "1999".

(3) In rule 5A (application for a time order)(33)-

(a) for "or section 139" substitute ", section 139 or section 140B"; and

(b) for "rule 4(1)" substitute "rule 2.4(1)".

(4) But rule 5A as worded immediately prior to the amendment made by paragraph (3) shall continue to have effect for the purpose of the court´s power to reopen an agreement under section 139 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974(34) as preserved by paragraph 15 of Schedule 3 to the Consumer Credit Act 2006(35).

(5) In rule 6(1) (claims against third parties in summary causes) for "rule 93 of the Act of Sederunt (Summary Cause Rules, Sheriff Court) 1976 (incidental applications)" substitute "rule 11 of the Act of Sederunt (Summary Cause Rules) 2002 (third party procedure)".

16. In the Schedule to the Act of Sederunt (Child Support Rules) 1993(36), in Form 7 (form of citation for summary application for commitment to prison or disqualification from driving)(37) omit "(INCLUDING ANY COUNTERPART TO THAT LICENCE)".

Paragraph 4(4)

SCHEDULE 1

Rule 13A.3(1)

FORM O7A Form of minute of intervention by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights

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Rule 13B.2(1)

FORM O7B Form of minute of intervention by the Scottish Commission for Human Rights

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Rule 13B.3(1)

FORM O7C Invitation to the Scottish Commission for Human Rights to intervene

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Paragraph 5(4)

SCHEDULE 2

Rule 2.37(3)

FORM 11AA Form of minute of intervention by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights

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Rule 2.39(2)

FORM 11AB Form of minute of intervention by the Scottish Commission for Human Rights

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Rule 2.40(1)

FORM 11AC Invitation to the Scottish Commission for Human Rights to intervene

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Paragraph 6(4)

SCHEDULE 3

Rule 14A.3(1)

FORM 23A Form of minute of intervention by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights

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Rule 14B.2(1)

FORM 23B Form of minute of intervention by the Scottish Commission for Human Rights

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Rule 14B.3(1)

FORM 23C Invitation to the Scottish Commission for Human Rights to intervene

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Paragraph 7(4)

SCHEDULE 4

Rule 13A.3(1)

FORM 14A Form of minute of intervention by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights

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Rule 13B.2(1)

FORM 14B Form of minute of intervention by the Scottish Commission for Human Rights

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Rule 13B.3(1)

FORM 14C Invitation to the Scottish Commission for Human Rights to intervene

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Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Act of Sederunt)

Paragraph 2 of this Act of Sederunt amends the Sheriff Court Ordinary Cause Rules in relation to late appearance in family and civil partnership actions. In each case, a rule is introduced whereby a defender who does not lodge a notice of intention to defend may subsequently participate in the proceedings or, if decree is granted, may apply for recall of the decree.

Paragraph 3 inserts, into the Ordinary Cause Rules, new rules 33.51A and 33A.48A which apply where a party applies for specified orders under the Family Law (Scotland) Act 1985. These rules require a party who has received notification under the Pension Protection Fund (Provision of Information) Regulations 2005 to inform the other party within a specified time period and to lodge and send to that other party specified relevant documentation.

Paragraphs 4, 5, 6 and 7 insert new Chapters 13A and 13B into the Ordinary Cause Rules, new rules 2.37 to 2.41 into the Summary Application Rules, new Chapters 14A and 14B into the Summary Cause Rules and new Chapters 13A and 13B into the Small Claim Rules to provide for the procedure in relation to the intervention in proceedings by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights and the Scottish Commission for Human Rights. Consequential amendments are also made to the rules in relation to claims under the equality enactments, including a provision requiring the intimation of such a claim to the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

Paragraph 8 amends the Summary Cause Rules to clarify that an application for time to pay in response to a summons for the recovery of heritable property which includes a claim for payment of money is not to be taken as an admission of the heritable claim.

Paragraphs 9 and 10 amend the Judicial Factors Rules 1992 and the Sheriff Court Company Insolvency Rules 1986 to make provision in relation to Council Regulation (E.C.) No. 1346/2000 on insolvency proceedings.

Paragraph 11 makes provision for an application for authority to make a video recording of proceedings before a commissioner appointed to take the evidence of a witness.

Paragraphs 12 and 13 amend the Sheriff Court Company Insolvency Rules 1986 and the Judicial Factors Rules 1992 to make provision to allow a party to be represented by a person authorised under an enactment to conduct proceedings in the sheriff court and for the recovery of expenses by that party.

Paragraph 14 makes several further amendments to the Summary Application Rules, including repeal of part II of Chapter 3.

Paragraph 15 makes minor amendments to the Act of Sederunt (Consumer Credit Act 1974) 1985, updating references to the Summary Cause Rules and to the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

Paragraph 16 amends the Child Support Rules 1993 removing the requirement on an offender to provide any counterpart driving licence, as a consequence of changes made by the Road Safety Act 2007.