Section 43: Transitional: rented housing in Scotland
163.Section 43 enables the DRC to provide conciliation services and legal assistance and to issue codes of practice in relation to the making of disability related works in Scotland. This will ensure that the DRC can exercise these powers pending the establishment of the CEHR.
164.Subsection (1) inserts a new section 49I in the DDA, which gives the DRC powers to make provision for conciliation services to be provided in respect of disputes about the making of disability related works in Scotland.
165.Subsection (2)(a) inserts a new section 53A(1F) in the DDA. This gives the DRC powers to issue a code of practice giving practical guidance about the making of disability related works in Scotland.
166.Subsection (2)(b) inserts a new section 53A(4B) in the DDA. This requires the Secretary of State to consult the Scottish Ministers before deciding whether to approve a DRC code prepared under new section 53A(1F).
167.Subsection (2)(c) inserts a new section 53A(6B) in the DDA. This requires the Secretary of State to consult the Scottish Ministers before appointing a day for the coming into effect of a DRC code prepared under new section 53A(1F).
168.Subsection (2)(d) inserts a new section 53A(8B) in the DDA. In the case of a code issued under new section 53A(1F), this amendment disapplies the requirement in section 53A(8A) for a court, tribunal or other body to take account of a DRC code where it considers it relevant in certain proceedings, including those concerning improvements. However, the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 provides for the Scottish courts and tribunals to take account of DRC codes on the making of disability related works.
169.Subsection (3) inserts a new section 7(1)(ab) in the DRCA. This gives the DRC powers to provide legal assistance in respect of proceedings in Scotland about the making of disability related works.