Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for the Crown Estate — my response to the Scottish government

My article about Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for the Crown Estate caused some excitement within her administration. All untrue, they say. They have written a response (below). So what could have happened? It’s worth look at in some detail, as it gives an insight into how government works. The Crown Estate is in the news because Lord Smith’s Commission into extra powers for the Scottish Parliament recommended that Crown Estate assets in Scotland – and their profits – be handed over to the Scottish Parliament. And, in his report, Lord Smith added:

‘Responsibility for financing the Sovereign Grant will need to reflect this revised settlement for the Crown Estate.’

This is important because Lord Smith recognised there was a potential problem with the Sovereign Grant which is linked to the profits of the Crown Estate and goes to fund the Royal Family. Lord Smith did not specify a solution but he flagged up the problem.