§ Mr. GallieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whom he intends to appoint to conduct the inquiry into Monklands district council and if he will make a statement. [34719]
§ Mr. KynochUnder the powers conferred on him by section 211 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 my right hon. Friend has appointed Mr. William A. Nimmo Smith QC to conduct the inquiry. The formal terms of reference will be as follows
To inquire into the question whether Monklands District Council have failed to comply with the duty imposed on them under section 7 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 to make appointments to paid office or employment on merit and to report thereon.The recent publication of Professor Black's report attracted widespread indignation and concern about the allegations therein. In the circumstances it is hoped that everyone who has relevant information will co-operate fully with the inquiry.