Information Bulletin 4 from Deaf Sector Partnership

Dr Allan will be leading on BSL, as Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages.

What is Dr Allan’s role in relation to the BSL (Scotland) Act?

As the Scottish Minister with responsibility for languages, Dr Allan will be the lead minister for the BSL (Scotland) Act. This means he will be the lead Minister who will oversee implementation of the Act, including  the National Plan and the National Progress Report.

How was Dr Allan chosen for this role?

As minister with responsibility for languages, BSL falls within his remit.

What can be expected of Dr Allan’s BSL on-going involvement?

Dr Allan will have oversight of the implementation of the BSL (Scotland) Act and this will include working with the National Advisory Group. During the passage of the Bill through parliament he also met with BSL users and he is looking forward to working with the Deaf community and organisations who represent them as the Act is implemented.

Is Dr Allan a MSP or part of the Scottish Government?

Both. Dr Allan is and SNP MSP for the Western Isles. And he is a Minister of the Scottish Government.

Will Dr Allan be the only Minister responsible for BSL?

No. All Scottish Ministers have collective responsibility for the BSL (Scotland) Act but Dr Allan is the lead minister.