Vulnerable groups bill wins unanimous backing
18 Jan 07
First Minister pledges to reintroduce information sharing if returned to office
The Protection of Vulnerable Groups Bill won unanimous backing from MSPs at its stage 1 debate yesterday.
The bill strengthens vetting procedures for those working with children and vulnerable people and came about as a result of the Bichard report following the Soham murders in 2002.
The Executive had withdrawn its proposals for information sharing between different agencies because of concerns over confidentiality and lack of previous consultation with key stakeholders.
However, Jack McConnell said that if he is re-elected as First Minister in May, he will reinstate the measures. Mr McConnell is reported to be furious that Holyrood's Education Committee did not support that part of the bill, despite accepting that it could prevent children from being harmed.
Mr McConnell has said he will make the information-sharing element of the bill part of Labour's manifesto for the May elections.
The SNP's Fiona Hyslop, a member of the committee, said during the debate that it was clear there was a problem with the bill as so many of those who work with children wanted it delayed or withdrawn.
Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry said that the implementation and operation of the new vetting scheme would be closely monitored and evaluated. There seemed little advantage in postponing action when the safety of children and vulnerable adults was at stake.
The bill will now go back to the Education Committee for its detailed examination at stage 2.