RNIB SCOTLAND AND DEVOLUTION

That this House recognises the pivotal role RNIB Scotland plays in advocating the interests of blind and partially-sighted Scots and the high quality services it delivers; notes with dismay the proposed transfer of RNIB Scotland to Action for Blind People; expresses deep concern that the blind and partially-sighted members of RNIB Scotland have not been consulted; deplores the fact that there has been no meaningful discussion of alternative proposals, such as independent charity status within the RNIB Group of charities; considers that the present proposal is out of step with constitutional change within the UK; is concerned that the focus on influencing Scottish devolved policy and the development of Scottish services will be diminished and will also put Scottish funding at risk, impacting adversely on the 188,000 people in Scotland living with sight loss; and urges that the decision to transfer RNIB Scotland to Action for Blind People be reversed.