The Act Quality contract schemes Section 21 Postponement of quality contract scheme
42.This section provides for a QC scheme, which would, in relation to a local service included in it, become operational under section 20(1)(b) to be postponed (for a maximum of 12 months). In such circumstances certain consultation and publicity requirements must be met. Before postponing a scheme an authority must consult all operators of local services who might be affected by the postponement. Authorities must then, within 14 days of any postponement of a scheme, give notice in a local newspaper and notify all operators affected by the postponement, and the traffic commissioner. The Scottish Ministers may make regulations as regards postponements and these regulations may in particular cover the maximum period of postponements and any requirement for authorities to reissue invitations to tender in accordance with section 18 of the Act.