- In some circumstances, the response to an emergency may require coordination by the Scottish Government (for example, volcanic ash cloud, severe weather across many regions). In such a scenario, the Scottish Government will consult with its own professional advisors, such as the offices of the Chief Scientific Advisers (CSAs), Chief Medical Officer (CMO) or Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO Scotland) and wider networks as required, to establish a body of scientific or technical advice. These bodies provide advice via SGoRR meetings, convened as necessary during the emergency. SGoRR coordinates this process, coordinating and sharing this advice as appropriate with the RPs. The RPs are responsible for disseminating this advice to their STAC.
- The management of emergencies in Scotland is a devolved matter. However, in the event of an emergency in Scotland that impacts elsewhere in the UK or affects matters reserved to Westminster, the UK Government may establish a Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). SAGE provides advice to support decisions made during the UK Government’s response to an emergency - UK Government - SAGE Guidance.
- The membership of SAGE may change during the lifetime of the response depending on the topics being covered, and the chairing of SAGE may also change, as an emergency moves from the response to recovery phase. The Scottish Government may be represented at SAGE through the Scottish Government professional advisers (CSAs, CMO, CVO Scotland). Where SAGE is active and where its considerations touch on devolved matters, it will link directly to the SGoRR arrangements with professional advisers. Any direct communication between SAGE and STAC, if required, would be facilitated and coordinated by SGoRR (as shown in Figure 1).