In June 2004, the First Minister, Jack McConnell, appointed Sir John Orr to undertake an Independent Review of the procedures for authorising marches and parades in Scotland.
Sir John's report Review of Marches and Parades in Scotland covered all types of processions, from political demonstrations to local community pageants. Published in February 2005, the report made a series of recommendations that were taken forward by a Working Group on marches and Parades.
To help inform what should be amended in the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (the legislation which provides the duties and powers of local authorities in relation to marches and parades), the Executive sent out their consultation document Supporting Police, Protecting Communities in February 2005.