§ Mr. McLeishTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) if he will list the meetings or discussions held with Sheriff Brian Kearney during the inquiry into child care policy in Fife region; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he plans to meet Sheriff Kearney to discuss the progress of the inquiry into child care policy in Fife.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 12 November 1990]: From time to time officials of the social work services group meet Sheriff Kearney to hear about the stage reached in the inquiry and to take his view on its future timetable. These contacts will continue. The progress of the inquiry is a matter for Sheriff Kearney to decide taking account of the need to ensure a fair and thorough hearing for all the parties concerned.
§ Mr. McLeishTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make it his policy that his Department will pay the full costs of the inquiry into child care policy in Fife.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 18 November 1990]: Once he receives the report of the inquiry the Secretary of State will consider in accordance with section 210(7) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 whether the expenses of the inquiry should be paid to any extent by the local authority or any other party to the inquiry. The costs of running the inquiry, which are currently being met from Scottish Office votes, embrace salaries, travel and subsistence, shorthand services and legal fees. Fife regional council is responsible for meeting its own expenses in preparing for and being represented at the inquiry.