Schedule 2: Scottish Pubs Code Adjudicator Part 2: Powers Powers to advise on the code and issue guidance
82.Paragraph 7 allows the adjudicator to give anyone advice about any aspect of the code. This power is likely to be exercised with a view to encouraging compliance with the code, but could also, for example, be used to advise prospective tenants about the code. This is a power and not a duty, so the adjudicator has discretion regarding whom to advise, and how.
83.Paragraph 8(1) provides that the adjudicator may publish guidance on the practices and procedures of the adjudicator, the application of the code and what pub-owning businesses must do to comply with it, and anything else related to the code. For example, this would enable the adjudicator to give general guidance about the application of a particular provision of the code (the Pubs Code Adjudicator for England and Wales has published a number of such guidance documents on its website). Sub-paragraph (2) requires the adjudicator to follow his or her own guidance, in the interests of consistency.
84.Sub-paragraph (3) states that the adjudicator must consult any organisation or person considered to be appropriate before issuing any guidance. This makes it possible for the adjudicator to conclude that it is not appropriate to consult with anyone, if (for example) the guidance reflects practice that is already well-established and uncontroversial. Should the adjudicator decide to consult, it is left to the adjudicator to decide whom to consult.