§ 36. Mr. Foulkesasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland what action he has taken regarding representations about possible illegality in proceedings surrounding the dismissal of Malcolm Kelly by the Northern Lighthouse Board; what precautions he took to ensure that final consideration and decommission on the matter was carried out by someone who is not a Commissioner of Northern Lights; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandAs my noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate explained in a recent letter to the hon. Gentleman, Crown counsel have instructed that the police investigate certain allegations. Neither the Lord Advocate nor I will have any involvement in the matter.
§ Mr. FoulkesWill the Solicitor-General for Scotland —I note that, appropriately, that he is wearing his tie as a Commissioner of Northern Lights — give a clear assurance that if the police inquiry shows any irregularity or illegality there will be a review set up either by the Lord Advocate or the Secretary of State for Scotland to consider overturning the decision of the industrial tribunal on the sacking of Malcolm Kelly and what compensation might properly be made available to him?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandAs I have already said, Crown counsel have been instructed to carry out an investigation. It remains to be seen what will emerge from the investigation. It is not for me to pre-empt any consideration of it. As a commissioner, I would not have any personal involvement — the same applies to my noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate—as I am aware that certain of the allegations are against me.