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Gabh pàirt

Lobbying



About lobbying

“Lobbying” is a way to influence decisions that MSPs and other elected representatives make. 

Lobbying takes many different forms. It can be done by:

  • individuals
  • interest groups
  • bodies that represent their members or professions
  • charities and the voluntary sector 
  • professional lobbyists 

Since March 2018, “regulated lobbying” must be recorded in a Lobbying Register. The types of lobbying which are regulated are set out in the Lobbying (Scotland) Act 2016.

“Regulated lobbying” is lobbying which takes place face-to-face (including by video-conference) with: 

  • Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs)
  • members of the Scottish Government (including Scottish Law Officers)
  • junior Scottish ministers
  • Scottish Government special advisers
  • the Permanent Secretary of the Scottish Government

Explore the Lobbying (Scotland) Act 2016