This section provides for certain exceptions to the general rule that functions which are transferred to the Scottish Ministers by virtue of section 53 will cease to be exercisable by Ministers of the Crown in or as regards Scotland.  This enables the UK Government, for example, to provide financial assistance to industry in Scotland.  The section also enables the Scottish Ministers and a Minister of the Crown to exercise jointly non-statutory powers in order to establish, maintain or abolish bodies, offices and office-holders.
Commentary Part II: the Scottish Administration Purpose and Effect