Local Government Reorganisation (Hansard, 21 July 1994)

§ Mr. Lang

The proposed restructuring of local government will have significant implications for local authority staff. Clause 12 of the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Bill provides for the establishment of a staff commission to exercise functions in relation to the staff and the staffing of authorities. In advance of the commission being established, I have appointed a staff advisory committee, chaired by Mr. Robert Peggie, who took up his appointment on 1 April 1994.

The advisory committee has, in the course of its work, had discussions with a number of local authorities. As a result of those discussions it has become clear that additional work is required and in particular that there is a pressing need from authorities for advice on the staffing issues which they need to consider. There is a need also for the preparation of advice for local authorities on individual staffing issues, some of which are very complex. I therefore intend to establish the staff commission in shadow form before the Bill receives Royal Assent.

It is also my intention formally to designate the existing chairman and members of the staff advisory committee as a shadow staff commission. The shadow commission will continue the excellent work begun by the advisory committee as well as advising local authorities and making preparations for the establishment of the full commission following Royal Assent.

Parliamentary approval for this expenditure was sought in the 1994–95 main estimates for housing and environmental services Scotland vote, class XIV, vote 7. This expenditure was subject to the passage of both the Appropriation Act and the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Bill. Pending Royal Assent of both Bills urgent expenditure estimated at £150,000 will be met by a repayable advance from the contingencies fund.