Scots take a fresh look at adjudication

New methods to resolve contractual disputes are to be reviewed by the Scottish Executive following the publication of its adjudication consultation paper last week.

The Improving Adjudication in the Construction Industry document aims to deal with contractual differences in a "more effective and understandable manner".

Proposals in the document include the provision of guidance for adjudicators and amendments to current legislation where difficulties cannot be dealt with by guidance - providing this does not distract from the simplicity, speed or relatively low cost of adjudication.

Plans to amend and improve adjudication laws were promised by the Executive in 1998 when legislation was passed before Scotland's devolution.

Views are being sought from across the industry. Responses are due back by 11 April.