The Scottish Government

Organisation

Accounts Commission for Scotland

Remit

To secure the audit of local authorities and joint boards. To report and make recommendations to Scottish Ministers and to audited bodies. To hold hearings and apply sanctions to councillors and officers where appropriate.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape

Organisation

Bòrd na Gàidhlig

http://www.bord-na-gaidhlig.org.uk/

Remit

To ensure a sustainable future for the Gaelic language and culture in Scotland. Aims of the organisation include:- Increase the number of Gaelic speakers and users of Gaelic; Strengthen Gaelic as a family and community language; Facilitate access to Gaelic language and culture throughout Scotland; Promote and celebrate Gaelic's contribution to Scottish cultural life; Extend and enhance the use of Gaelic in all aspects of life in Scotland

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Cairngorms National Park Authority

http://www.cairngorms.co.uk/

Remit

To conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area; to promote sustainable use of the natural resources of the area; to promote understanding and enjoyment (including enjoyment in the form of recreation) of the special qualities of the area by the public; to promote sustainable economic and social development of the area's communities.

Further work

To consider scope for a single employer serving both boards..

Organisation

Crofters' Commission

http://www.crofterscommission.org.uk/

Remit

To reorganise, develop and regulate crofting and promote the interests of the crofters

Further work

To consider following the completion of the Shucksmith Committee of Inquiry into Crofting.

Organisation

Deer Commission for Scotland

http://www.dcs.gov.uk/

Remit

To further the conservation, control and sustainable management of deer in Scotland and to keep under review all relevant matters, including the welfare of deer.

Firm proposal

To merge the Deer Commission with Scottish Natural Heritage.

Organisation

Highlands and Islands Enterprise

http://www.hie.co.uk/

Remit

To prepare, co-ordinate, promote and undertake measures for the economic and social development of the Highlands and Islands.

What is proposed

Part of the Enterprise network reform.

Organisation

Learning & Teaching Scotland

http://www.ltscotland.org.uk/

Remit

To: actively promote a climate of innovation and ambition throughout the Scottish education system. • support teachers, schools and local authorities in improving the quality of education and raising levels of achievement of all learners. • ensure that the curriculum and approaches to learning and teaching, including the use of ICT, assist children and young people in Scotland to develop their full potential. • work in close partnership with The Scottish Government and other key stakeholders to build capacity and support the delivery of a first class education that is recognised as such nationally and internationally

Further work

Examine its role in light of the establishment of Skills Development Scotland Ltd.

Organisation

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National ParkAuthority

Remit

To conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area; to promote sustainable use of the natural resources of the area; to promote understanding and enjoyment (including enjoyment in the form of recreation) of the special qualities of the area by the public; to promote sustainable economic and social development of the area's communities

Further work

To consider scope for a single employer serving both boards.

Organisation

National Galleries of Scotland

http://www.nationalgalleries.org/

Remit

To care for, preserve and add to the objects in their collections; to ensure objects are exhibited to the public, and generally to promote the public's enjoyment and understanding of fine arts.

Further work

Examination of ways of working more closely together to strengthen their impact in their national role, in supporting collections activity throughout Scotland , and in presenting Scotland to the world.

Organisation

National Library Scotland

http://www.nls.uk/

Remit

It is a library of legal deposit, entitled to claim works published in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It has large collections of printed books, manuscripts and maps and has an unrivalled collection of Scottish material.

Further work

Examination of ways of working more closely together to strengthen their impact in their national role, in supporting collections activity throughout Scotland , and in presenting Scotland to the world.

Organisation

National Museums of Scotland

http://www.nms.ac.uk/home.aspx

Remit

To care for, preserve and add to the objects on their collections; ensure that the objects are exhibited to the public, and to make the collections available through research, exhibitions, education and other activities.

Further work

Examination of ways of working more closely together to strengthen their impact in their national role, in supporting collections activity throughout Scotland , and in presenting Scotland to the world.

Organisation

Police Complaints Commissioner for Scotland

http://www.pcc-scotland.org/home.aspx

Remit

To scrutinise independently the manner in which police organisations deal with complaints.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape

Organisation

Risk Management Authority

http://www.rmascotland.gov.uk/home.aspx

Remit

To promote and support excellent professional practice in managing the risk to the public presented by serious offenders; and to support the administration of the Order for Lifelong Restriction that applies to a small number of the most serious violent and sexual offenders

Further Work

We will review the role of the Risk Management Authority to determine whether integrating the functions into other bodies would improve the effectiveness of our systems for public safety.

Organisation

Royal Botanic Garden , Edinburgh

http://www.rbge.org.uk/

Remit

To explore and explain the world of plants. It is also a major tourist attraction. To maintain and develop the living and preserved collections to project science into society both at home and internationally and to maximize visitor numbers

Further work

RBGE senior management will be invited to participate in the development of a new Scottish scientific research Institute to capture potential research and education synergies.

Organisation

Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland

http://www.rcahms.gov.uk/

Remit

To carry out a programme of field surveys and recording of the built heritage of Scotland under international convention. As part of this work it compiles and maintains the National Monuments Records of Scotland.

Further work

To rationalise historic, archival, recording and scheduling functions across Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments, Historic Scotland and National Archives of Scotland and increase connection with Scotland's people.

Organisation

Scottish Agricultural Wages Board

Remit

To make Orders fixing minimum wage rates, holiday entitlements and other conditions for workers employed in agriculture in Scotland.

Further work

To review the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB)

Organisation

Scottish Arts Council

http://www.scottisharts.org.uk/

Remit

To support and develop the arts in Scotland.

Firm Decision

To amalgamate with Scottish Screen into Creative Scotland.

Organisation

Scottish Children's Reporter Administration (SCRA)

http://www.scra.gov.uk/home/index.cfm

Remit

To facilitate the performance by the Principal Reporter of his statutory functions in relation to children who may be in need of compulsory measures of care; to deploy and manage staff to carry out that work and to provide suitable accommodation facilities for children's hearings.

Firm Proposal

Create a single national body to support all of the statutory processes within the Children's Hearing System.

Organisation

Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care (the Care Commission)

http://www.carecommission.com/

Remit

To ensure improvement in the quality of care services in Scotland, respecting the rights of people who use those services to dignity, privacy, choice and safety. This is to be attained through a new, unified regulatory system.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape

Organisation

Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission

http://www.sccrc.org.uk/home.aspx

Remit

To consider alleged miscarriages of justice and to refer deserving cases to the High Court for determination.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Enterprise

http://www.scottish-enterprise.com/

Remit

To generate jobs and prosperity for the people of Scotland.

What is proposed

Part of the Enterprise network reform.

Firm decision

Merge Careers Scotland (part of Scottish Enterprise) and most of the skills functions of Scottish Enterprise with SUfI to create Skills Development Scotland Ltd.

Organisation

Scottish Environment Protection Agency

http://www.sepa.org.uk/

Remit

To provide an efficient and integrated environmental protection system for Scotland which will both improve the environment and contribute to the Scottish Ministers' goal of sustainable development.

Firm proposal

We will integrate the Fisheries Electricity Committee with SEPA.

Further work

To create a single environmental and rural delivery service for shared customers.

Organisation

Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding Council

http://www.sfc.ac.uk/

Remit

To fund further and higher education and research in Scotland through providing grants to support teaching, learning and research in Scotland's colleges and universities.

Firm decision

To transfer funding of the higher education functions of the Scottish Agricultural College to SFC.

Organisation

Scottish Legal Aid Board

http://www.slab.org.uk/

Remit

To access and where appropriate grant, applications for Legal Aid; to scrutinise and pay legal aid accounts submitted by solicitors and advocates; and to advise Scottish Ministers on legal aid matters.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Natural Heritage

http://www.snh.org.uk/

Remit

To act as the statutory adviser to Scottish Ministers and others on matters affecting the natural heritage of Scotland

Firm decision

The Advisory Committee on Sites of Special Scientific Interest will be abolished and its functions transferred to SNH.

Firm proposal

Merge Deer Commission with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)

To involve SNH in better integrated marine management.

Further work

To create a single environmental and rural delivery service for shared customers.

Organisation

Scottish Police Services Authority

http://www.spsa.police.uk/

Remit

To provide policing and support services to Scotland's eight police forces and the criminal justice community

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Qualifications Authority

http://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

The national body in Scotland responsible for the development, accreditation, assessment and certification of qualifications other than degrees. SQA qualifications are available in schools, colleges, training centres and the workplace.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Screen

http://www.scottishscreen.com/

Remit

Scottish Screen is the national development agency for the screen industries in Scotland

Firm Decision

To amalgamate with Scottish Arts Council into Creative Scotland.

Organisation

Scottish Social Services Council

http://www.sssc.uk.com/Homepage.htm

Remit

To regulate the Social Services Workforce and raise standards in social work and social care

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish University for Industry

http://www.learndirectscotland.com/

Remit

To stimulate demand for lifelong learning by businesses and individuals; provide information and advice to enable learners to find out about the range of opportunities and support available in Scotland; improve access to learning through working with partners to overcome barriers to learning; and to develop capacity in the learning market through working with partners to encourage innovation and address market gaps.

Firm decision

Merge with Careers Scotland (part of Scottish Enterprise) and most of the skills functions of Scottish Enterprise to create Skills Development Scotland Ltd.

Organisation

Sportscotland

http://www.sportscotland.org.uk/

Remit

The council has both executive and advisory functions and acts as the National Lottery distributor body for the Lottery Sports Fund in Scotland.

Firm decision

Sportscotland is to merge with the Scottish Institute of Sport creating a new national organisation.

Organisation

VisitScotland

http://www.visitscotland.com/

Remit

VisitScotland's principal functions are marketing, visitor services, research and co-ordination of action arising from the Strategy for Scottish Tourism

What is proposed

VisitScotland's regional offices will be rationalised as part of the reform of the enterprise networks.

Organisation

Water Industry Commission for Scotland

http://www.watercommissioner.co.uk/

Remit

To promote the interests of persons whose premises are connected to the public water supply system or the public sewerage system or both relating to the provision to them of water and sewerage services. To determine maximum charges and approve charges schemes. To establish a licensing framework for retailing water and sewerage services to non-household customers.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape

Organisation

Advisory Committee on Sites of Special Scientific Interest

http://www.snh.org.uk/publications/on-line/designatedareas/sssi2/designating.asp

Remit

To advise Scottish Natural Heritage in cases where there are sustained scientific objections to the notification of sites Sites of Special Scientific Interest

Firm decision

The Advisory Committee on Sites of Special Scientific Interest will be abolished and its functions transferred to SNH.

Organisation

Architecture and Design Scotland

http://www.ads.org.uk/

Remit

Scotland's national champion for good architecture and design in the built environment

Further work

To improve effectiveness of delivery within the reshaped Built Environment sector.

Organisation

Building Standards Advisory Committee

Remit

To advise Scottish Ministers on the exercise of their functions under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003; keep under review the operation of regulations under the Act; and make recommendations to Ministers in connection with the regulations.

Firm decision

To abolish.

Organisation

Fisheries (Electricity) Committee

Remit

To advise and assist Scottish Ministers and any person engaging in, or proposing to engage in, the generation of hydro-electric power on questions relating to the effect on fisheries or stocks of fish. The Committee also advises on intakes and outfalls at some other types of power station, particularly the large coastal and estuarine fossil-fuelled and nuclear stations the use very large quantities of seawater for cooling purposes

Firm proposal

We will integrate the Fisheries Electricity Committee with SEPA. This will create a more streamlined process for the authorisation of new hydro- electric developments.

Organisation

General Teaching Council for Scotland

http://www.gtcs.org.uk/Home/home.asp

Remit

To maintain a register of qualified teachers; keep under review the standards of entry to the teaching profession; make recommendations to the Scottish Ministers on standards of education, training, career development and fitness to teach of teachers; advise Ministers on supply of teachers.

Firm proposal

End NDPB status and treat GTC entirely as a self-regulating, profession led body, along the lines of the General Medical Council.

Organisation

Historic Environment Advisory Council for Scotland

http://www.heacs.org.uk/

Remit

To provide to Scottish Ministers advice on issues affecting the historic environment and how the functions of the Scottish Ministers exercisable in relation to the historic environment may be exercised effectively for the benefit of the historic environment.

Firm decision

To abolish.

Organisation

Justices of the Peace Advisory Committees

Remit

To keep under review the number of justices of the peace in its particular area and to advise Scottish Ministers on the appointment of new Justices.

Firm decision

As part of the changes being made to the Justice system under the Summary Justice Reform Programme the previous, local authority based JPACs have been replaced by 6 larger JPACs, based on sheriffdoms, covering all of Scotland. .

Organisation

Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland

http://www.bcomm-scotland.gov.uk/

Remit

To review local government council boundaries and electoral arrangements, To advise Scottish Ministers with regard to the need for change deemed necessary in the interests of effective and convenient local government.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland (MACS)

http:// HYPERLINK "http://www.macs-mobility.org" www.macs-mobility.org

Remit

To Advise Scottish Ministers on the transport needs of disabled people in Scotland.

Firm proposal

To b ring together the Public Transport Users Committee and the Mobility Access Committee into a single body to represent the interests of all transport users in Scotland . In so doing, we will engage with key stakeholders to make certain that this change strengthens the voice of people with travel accessibility and mobility issues. This will include enhancing the PTUC board with 3 additional members with a understanding of accessibility and mobility matters to ensure the travel needs of disabled people are fully represented when making recommendations to Ministers on transport matters

Organisation

Public Transport Users' Committee for Scotland (PTUC)

http://openscotland.gov.uk/Topics/Transport/ptuc/Contacts

Remit

To represent effectively the interests of public transport users. To consider and make recommendations to Scottish Ministers relating to public transport services in, from and to Scotland and it shall consider and make recommendations about other matters if asked to do so.

Firm proposal

To bring together the Public Transport Users Committee and the Mobility Access Committee into a single body to represent the interests of all transport users in Scotland . In so doing, we will engage with key stakeholders to make certain that this change strengthens the voice of people with travel accessibility and mobility issues. This will include enhancing the PTUC board with 3 additional members with a understanding of accessibility and mobility matters to ensure the travel needs of disabled people are fully represented when making recommendations to Ministers on transport matters

Organisation

Scottish Advisory Committee on Distinction Awards

http://www.sacda.scot.nhs.uk/

Remit

To advise the Minister for Health and Community Care and Scottish Ministers which specialists engaged in the NHS in Scotland should receive awards for professional distinction.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Industrial Development Advisory Board (SIDAB)

http://www.rsascotland.gov.uk/rsa/files/SIDAB%20Members%20Handbook.doc

Remit

To advise the Scottish Ministers on the exercise of their powers under Section 7 of the Industrial Development Act 1982 which was devolved to Scottish Ministers in 1998 and relates to the administration of the Regional Selective Assistance Scheme in Scotland.

Firm proposal

Abolish SIDAB and achieve greater integration with enterprise-related reforms.

Organisation

Scottish Law Commission

http://www.lawscot.org.uk/Public_Information/consultation/Scottish_Law_Commission.aspx

Remit

To promote the systematic reform and development of Scots Law

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee

Remit

To prepare and submit to the Scottish Ministers advice in relation to the payment by local authorities of remuneration (including pensions) and allowances to and reimbursement of expenses incurred by members of local authorities, and the payment of severance payments in relation to members of local authorities. Ministers have also set clear criteria of which the Committee must take account, including the affordability and public acceptability of its advice.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Records Advisory Council

http://www.scottishrecordsadvisorycouncil.info/

Remit

To submit proposals or make representations to the Scottish Ministers, the Lord Justice General or the Lord President of the Court of Session on matters relating to the custody, preservation, indexing and cataloguing of the public records of Scotland, and on facilities for public access to these records. Also to advise the Scottish Ministers on the application of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 to information in records held by the Keeper of the Records of Scotland

Firm proposal

Abolish Scottish Records Advisory Council

Organisation

Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland

http://www.asntscotland.gov.uk/asnts/141.html?pMenuID=25&pElementID=25

Remit

To ensure that all children and young people are provided with the necessary support to help them meet their individual needs and to help them make the most of their education by adjudicating where parents and the Education Authority cannot agree on matters related to co-ordinated support plans.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape and also in relation to work on streamlining tribunals.

Organisation

Children's Panels

http://www.childrens-hearings.co.uk/

Remit

To make decisions in respect of children referred to a Hearing by the Principal Children's Reporter. These children are considered to be in need of compulsory measures of supervision because they are at risk or have offended.

Firm Proposal

Create a single national body to support all of the statutory processes within the Children's Hearing System. To be considered as part of work on streamlining tribunals

Organisation

Lands Tribunal for Scotland

http://www.lands-tribunal-scotland.org.uk/

Remit

To deal with disputed valuations of land; the discharge of restrictive title conditions; disputes during council house purchase under tenants' rights legislation; appeals against the Keeper of the Registers of Scotland and voluntary or joint references of consent.

Further work

To be considered as part of work to streamline tribunal services for Scotland.

Organisation

Mental Health Tribunal for Scotland

http://www.mhtscot.org/mhts/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

To hold independent tribunal hearings and make decisions on the long term compulsory care and treatment of people with mental health disorders. It was established by the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act 2003. The Act specifies membership of the Tribunal, the role and functions of the President, Tribunal procedures etc. The Act also provides that "The Scottish Ministers may appoint such staff and provide such accommodation for the Tribunal as they may determine".

Firm proposal

Merge Mental Health Tribunal Administration Agency with the Mental Health Tribunal NDPB or bring the agency within core Government, pending a final decision on how best to streamline tribunals.

Organisation

Parole Board for Scotland

http://www.scottishparoleboard.gov.uk/

Remit

To determine the suitability for release of prisoners serving four years or more and for those who will be released on life licence. The Board also has powers to insert licence conditions and to recall offenders to custody.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Private Rented Housing Panel (Rent Assessment Panel for Scotland)

http://www.prhpscotland.gov.uk/prhp/121.html

Remit

To provide members of the Rent Assessment Committees which consider objections to fair rents set by the Rent Officers under the Rent (Scotland) Act 1984 and assess the market rent for assured and short assured tenancies created under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988, when the landlord and tenant cannot agree on an appropriate rent.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Charity Appeals Panel

http://www.scap.gov.uk/index.html

Remit

To consider cases of appeal from charities unsatisfied with the decision on their status by the Office of the Scottish Charities Regulator

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd

http://www.cmassets.co.uk/index.htm

Remit

CMAL owns the vessels, harbours and equipment required for the operation of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services. The vessels are leased to the operator of those services, currently CalMac Ferries Ltd.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

David MacBrayne Ltd

Remit

A group holding company

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd

http://www.hial.co.uk/

Remit

Is responsible for the management and operation of ten airports in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland: Barra, Benbecula, Campbeltown, Inverness, Islay, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Sumburgh, Tiree and Wick.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Water

http://www.scottishwater.co.uk/portal/page/portal/SWE_PGP_HOME/SWE_PGE_HOME

Remit

To provide drinking water and waste water services to the people of Scotland

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS 24

http://www.nhs24.com/content/

Remit

To establish, implement and manage a confidential 24-hour nurse consultation and health information telephone advice service across Scotland - its main service is to provide access to out-of-hours services provided by the area NHS Boards.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS Boards

http://www.show.scot.nhs.uk/organisations/index.html

Remit

To provide a comprehensive and integrated health service - designed to secure improvement in physical and mental health and the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illness.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS Education for Scotland

http://www.nes.scot.nhs.uk/

Remit

To contribute to the delivery of highest quality health care by promoting best practice in the education and lifelong learning of all NHS Scotland Staff, particularly through multi-disciplinary working and learning

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS Health Scotland

http://www.show.scot.nhs.uk/information/healthInformation.html

Remit

The work of NHS Health Scotland is set in the context of the Scottish Government's vision for achieving a healthier Scotland as outlined in: 1. Towards a Healthier Scotland; 2. Our National Health, a Plan for Action, a Plan for Change; 3. Improving Health in Scotland: The Challenge; 4. Social Justice: a Scotland where everyone matters and building a better Scotland

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS National Services Scotland

http://www.nhsnss.org/

Remit

NHS National Services Scotland is an integral part of the NHSScotland supporting frontline patient care by providing and co-ordinating essential national and regional services.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

NHS Quality Improvement Scotland

http://www.nhshealthquality.org/nhsqis/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

To support, ensure and monitor the quality of health care provided by NHSScotland

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

National Waiting Times Centre Board

http://www.nhsgoldenjubilee.co.uk/home/

Remit

The National Waiting Times Centre is a special health board established on 27 June 2002 to manage the former HCI facility in Clydebank. It is now established and managed as a national centre to address waiting time priorities.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland

http://www.mwcscot.org.uk/home/home.asp

Remit

The Commission has a statutory duty to protect people who may, by reason of mental disorder, be incapable of protecting themselves or their interests adequately.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Ambulance Service

http://www.scottishambulance.com/

Remit

The Scottish Ambulance Service was established as a special Health Board on 1 April 1999 to provide ambulance and other means of transport for patients throughout the whole of Scotland.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

State Hospitals Board for Scotland

http://www.tsh.scot.nhs.uk/

Remit

The State Hospital is a secure hospital providing care for mentally disordered people who need treatment in conditions of special security

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Accountant in Bankruptcy

http://www.aib.gov.uk/

Remit

To : (i) Generally supervise the process of sequestration in Scotland and to ensure that those involved in that process, principally trustees and commissioners, properly carry out their responsibilities, and to take appropriate action when they fail to do so.
(ii) Maintain a public register of sequestrations, protected trust deeds and company insolvencies.
(iii) Undertake the functions of commissioners in sequestrations where none may be, or are, elected.
(iv) Act as interim and permanent trustee in sequestrations where no insolvency practitioner is appointed or elected to do so.
The Accountant also has responsibility for administering the Government's policies in respect of personal insolvency and the process of corporate insolvency in Scotland and to monitor the implementation of these policies.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Communities Scotland

http://www.communitiesscotland.gov.uk/intradoc-cgi/idc_cgi_isapi.dll?IdcService=GET_DOC_PAGE&Action=GetTemplatePage&Page=CS_HOME

Remit

To make Scotland a country where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a decent quality of life through affordable housing in strong and confident communities, having access to learning and employment opportunities, and living free from poverty, inequality and discrimination.

Community Scotland's objectives are:

• To increase the supply of affordable housing where it is needed most.

• To improve the quality of existing houses and ensure a high quality of new build.

• To improve the quality of housing and homelessness services.

• To improve the opportunities for people living in disadvantaged communities.

• To support the social economy to deliver key services and create job opportunities.

• To use our experience of delivering housing and regeneration programmes to inform and support the development of Ministerial policies.

Firm decision

Abolish Communities Scotland as a separate agency and bring its main non-regulatory functions into the core Scottish Government. The regulatory functions will be reformed to operate outside the Government and independently of Ministers

Organisation

Fisheries Research Service

http://www.marlab.ac.uk/

Remit

To provide scientific advice and information; to conduct research, monitoring and surveillance; to perform regulatory and enforcement activities; to represent the Scottish Government at national and international meetings; to communicate issues and information to all stakeholders; to ensure that the policies and regulatory activities of Government are supported by full and up-to-date knowledge

Further work

To involve FRS in the development of better integrated arrangements for marine/environmental science and research, and marine management .

Organisation

Historic Scotland

http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/

Remit

To safeguard the nation's historic environment by scheduling monuments of national importance and by listing historic buildings of special architectural or historic interest. To conserve properties in its care and provide financial assistance to private owners towards the costs of conserving and repairing outstanding monuments and buildings. To conduct research relating to building conservation and in developing and promoting craft skills. To carry out specialised conservation work and raise the standard of conservation practice among owners, and trade and professional groups. The agency has a commitment to encourage knowledge about Scotland 's historic environment and provides guidebooks and other publications, and educational material relating to the school curricular guidelines.

Further work

To rationalise historic, archival, recording and scheduling functions across Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments, Historic Scotland and National Archives of Scotland and increase connection with Scotland's people.

Organisation

HM Inspectorate of Education

http://www.hmie.gov.uk/

Remit

To promote sustainable improvements in standards, quality and achievements for all learners in a Scottish education system which is inclusive. Working in partnership HMIE will seek to ensure that:

·children, young people and adults inScotlandbecome successful learners, confident individuals, active citizens and effective contributors in the workplace and community; and

·providers of educational and children's services in Scotland enable children and young people to be safe, nurtured, achieving, healthy, active, included, respected and responsible.

HMIE inspects: Local Authorities, Health Boards, Charities. For the period 2004 - 2007, Ministers agreed four strategic priorities for HMIE on which its performance will be measured. These are:

·Through inspection and reporting, promote public accountability for the delivery of high quality education to all learners inScotland.

·Work with other organisations to build capacity to provide education and services for children of the highest quality for all users.

·Support informed policy development by providing high quality, independent, professional advice drawn from inspection and review evidence and knowledge of the system.

·Develop and manage HMIE as a best value organisation.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Mental Health Tribunal Administration Agency for Scotland

http://mhtscot.org/mhts/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

The Administration of The Mental Health Tribunal Scotland was established as an Executive Agency on 1 April 2005 and commenced live operations on 5 October 2005 when the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 came into force. The core function of the Agency is to provide support to the Mental Health Tribunal by providing case management and hearing support to ensure that the Tribunal can, through the panels sitting across Scotland , determine the applications and referrals made to it under the Act. To do this they need to work closely with all stakeholders, including NHS Boards and Local Authorities, to ensure that the administrative processes requirements of legislation but run as smoothly as possible.

Firm proposal

Merge Tribunal Administration Agency with the Mental Health Tribunal NDPB or bring the agency within core Government, pending a final decision on proposals to streamline tribunals

Organisation

National Archives of Scotland

http://www.nas.gov.uk/

Remit

To select, preserve, and make available the national archives of Scotland in whatever medium, to the highest standards; to promote the growth and maintenance of proper archive provision throughout the country; and to lead the development of archival practice in Scotland . In addition to advising Scottish Ministers on records and information policy, the NAS advises Scottish public authorities about the creation and management of their records, it advises public and private owners about their historical records and it provides a reference service to the public on all aspects of the national archives

Further work

To rationalise historic, archival, recording and scheduling functions across Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments, Historic Scotland and National Archives of Scotland and increase connection with Scotland's people.

Continue to support the partnership between the General Register Office for Scotland, the National Archives of Scotland and The Court of the Lord Lyon through Scotland's People.

Organisation

Scottish Agricultural Science Agency

http://www.sasa.gov.uk/

Remit

To ensure the quality of seeds and tubers for planting, and new crop varieties; keep field and horticultural crops free of damaging diseases; keeping serious pests of plants out of the UK and Scotland; Act as the Scottish Government's Inspectorate of genetically-modified crops; Develop new and more sensitive diagnostic tests for pests and diseases; Preserve and maintain a wide range of historic, heritage and other varieties of potatoes, cereals, peas and brassicas; Monitor the pesticide load in our diet, and the pattern of use of pesticides in Scotland; Protect wildlife against deliberate or accidental poisoning; Understand the ecology of important vertebrate species (e.g. rabbits, foxes, geese).

Firm decision

Merge the Scottish Agricultural Science Agency and Scottish Government Rural Payment and Inspection Division.

Organisation

Scottish Building Standards Agency

http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/

Remit

To prepare the building regulations and write guidance on how to meet the regulations; to provide views on compliance to help verifiers make decisions; to grant relaxations of the regulations in exceptional cases; to maintain a register of Approved Certifiers; to monitor and audit the certification system; to monitor and audit the performance of verifiers; and to verify Crown building work

Firm decision

To integrate the Building Standards Agency into Scottish Government and bring together with Architecture and Planning Policy in a single integrated Directorate.

Organisation

Scottish Courts Service

http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/

Remit

To provide administrative, organisational and technical services required to support the Judicary in delivery of Justice within the Court of Session, High Court of Judiciary and the 49 Sheriff Courts located throughout Scotland

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency

http://www.sfpa.gov.uk/closed.asp

Remit

SFPA's key aim is to protect fish stocks in the interests of the future of the Scottish fishing industry. In doing so it carries out all aspects of enforcement of fisheries legislation and regulations in the seas aroundScotland and in Scottish ports. This includes policy, operations, ships, aircraft and fishery offices around the coast.

Firm proposal

To involve SFPA as a key partner in developing better integrated marine management arrangements.

Organisation

Scottish Prison Service

http://www.sps.gov.uk/default.aspx

Remit

To keep in Custody those committed by the courts; to maintain good Order in each prison; to Care for prisoners with humanity; to provide prisoners with a range of Opportunity to exercise personal responsibility and to prepare for release; and to play a full role in the integration of offender management services

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Scottish Public Pensions Agency

http://www.sppa.gov.uk/

Remit

To administer and regulate the NHS and teachers' pension schemes in Scotland , and other occupational pension schemes for which the Scottish Ministers are responsible. It also regulates the local government, police and fire pension schemes administered by Scottish local authorities.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Social Work Inspection Agency

http://www.swia.gov.uk/swia/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

To inspect all social work services in Scotland and report publicly and to Parliament on the quality of these services, locally and nationally. With the emphasis on People, and working in partnership with other agencies, we aim to improve social work practice and so make a real difference in people's lives. SWIA aims to inspect all local authority social work services on a three-year cycle. It undertakes joint inspection work with HM Inspectorate of Education.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Student Awards Agency for Scotland

http://www.saas.gov.uk/

Remit

To deal with financial support and give advice to eligible Scottish students in higher education throughout the United Kingdom , together with certain related roles in connection with student loans, hardship funds and educational endowments

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Transport Scotland

http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/

Remit

Is responsible for the rail and trunk road networks and will oversee their operation and management. Transport Scotland support delivery of the programme of major transport infrastructure projects for road and rail. It is also responsible for running the new Scotland-wide Free Bus Scheme for older and disabled people and the concessionary travel scheme for young people which will begin in 2007.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

General Register Office for Scotland (GROS)

http://www.gro-scotland.gov.uk/

Remit

To administer the registration of events such as births, deaths, marriages, civil partnerships, divorces and adoptions, and is responsible for the statutes relating to the formalities of marriage and conduct of civil marriage. GROS take the census of Scotland's population every ten years and prepare and publish demographic and other statistics for central and local Government, for medical research, and for the private sector. GROS also make available to customers public records about individuals, and maintain for the Scottish Government the National Health Service Central Register.

Further work

Continue to support the partnership between the General Register Office for Scotland, the National Archives of Scotland and The Court of the Lord Lyon through Scotland's People.

Organisation

Registers of Scotland

http://www.ros.gov.uk/

Remit

Is responsible for compiling and maintaining registers relating to property and other legal documents. Its main aim is to protect the rights of the individual while providing access to important legal information

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR)

http://www.oscr.org.uk/

Remit

To increase public confidence in charities through effective regulation,increase transparency and public accountability of charities,

increase charity trustees' awareness of their statutory responsibilities, establish and maintain OSCR as a credible, respected, trusted and effective regulator .

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Children's Commissioner

http://www.sccyp.org.uk/

Remit

To ensure the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is adhered to in Scotland. The Commissioner has a legal duty to keep on reminding everyone of the promises and can also set up an investigation if she thinks the promises are not being kept. If the Commissioner believes that a public, private or voluntary organisation is not keeping the promises made to children and young people, she can require them to attend a public investigation, examine them under oath and force them to produce documents.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments in Scotland

http://www.publicappointments.org/

Remit

To create and regulate the process by which people are appointed to the boards of many of Scotland 's public bodies.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Parliamentary Standards Commissioner

http://www.spsc.co.uk/

Remit

Is an independent investigator of complaints that Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have broken their Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct gives guidance to MSPs on how to carry out their Parliamentary duties.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Information Commissioner

http://www.itspublicknowledge.info/home/ScottishInformationCommissioner.asp

Remit

Is responsible for enforcing and promoting Scotland's freedom of information laws

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Public Services Ombudsman

http://www.spso.org.uk/

Remit

Is a 'one-stop-shop'. It replaced three previous offices - the Scottish Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, the Local Government Ombudsman for Scotland and the Housing Association Ombudsman for Scotland. It investigates complaints about most organisations providing public services in Scotland including councils, the National Health Service, housing associations, the Scottish Government and its agencies and departments, universities and colleges and most Scottish public authorities.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Commission for Human Rights

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/acts2006/asp_20060016_en_1

Remit

To Promote, education and awareness-raising of human rights issues asa key means of developing a real and reliable human rights culture in Scotland.It does this by providing information, education, strategic advice and training on human rights issues.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Prisons Complaints Commission

http://www.scottishombudsman.org.uk/

Remit

To conduct an independent review of prisoners' complaints that have not been resolved through the internal grievance system of the SPS. The SPS does not deal with complaints that relate to conviction or sentence awarded by the Courts, decisions relating to parole or life licence, or complaints relating to medical matters that involve clinical judgement.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Commission for Public Audit

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/acts2000/en/aspen_20000001_en_1

Remit

The Scottish Commission for Public Audit was established under section 12 of the Public Finance and Accountability (Scotland) Act to examine the proposed budget of Audit Scotland, appoint Audit Scotland's auditors, and initiate and consider 3E examinations into Audit Scotland.

The main areas of responsibility of the Commission are:

(a) to examine Audit Scotland's proposals for the use of resources and expenditure and report on them to the Parliament;

(b) to appoint a qualified person to audit the accounts of Audit
Scotland;

(c) to lay before the Parliament and publish a copy of Audit Scotland's accounts and the auditor's report on them.

What is proposed

No change.

Organisation

Scottish Legal Services Ombudsman/Scottish Legal Complaints Commission

http://www.slso.org.uk/

www.scottishlegalcomplaints.com/

Remit

The Scottish Legal Services Ombudsman oversees the handling of complaints against legal practitioners by their professional bodies (The Law Society of Scotland or The Faculty of Advocates). It is to be replaced in 2008 by the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission, which has been established under the Legal Profession and Legal Aid ( Scotland ) Act 2007. The SLCC will receive all complaints against solicitors which it has not been possible to resolve at source and will be funded by levies on the legal profession.

Further work

SLCC will be considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Audit Scotland

http://www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/

Remit

To help the Auditor General and the Accounts Commission to make sure organisations that spend public money in Scotland use it properly, efficiently and effectively. It does this by carrying out audits - that is, detailed and systematic investigations - of various aspects of how public bodies work.

What is proposed

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Court of Lord Lyon

http://www.lyon-court.com/lordlyon/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

The Court of the Lord Lyon is the heraldic authority for Scotland.It deals with all matters relating to Scottish Heraldry and Coats of Arms and maintains the Scottish Public Registers of Arms and Genealogies.The Lord Lyon King of Arms is also responsible for State Ceremonial in Scotland.

Further work

Continue to support the partnership between the General Register Office for Scotland, the National Archives of Scotland and The Court of the Lord Lyon through Scotland's People.

Organisation

Drinking Water Quality Regulator for Scotland

Remit

The role of Drinking Water Quality Regulator for Scotland was established in the Water Industry Act 2002 to provide an independent check that Scottish Water is complying with the drinking water quality regulations. To allow him to carry out his functions, the 2002 Act provides him with extensive powers to: acquire information, conduct investigations and take enforcement action should this prove necessary.

The primary purpose of the regulations is to protect public health an

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

HM Fire Service Inspectorate for Scotland

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/Fire/15130/1018

Remit

The Inspectorate's main responsibilities include regularly reviewing how the Services are performing, providing advice on technical matters, producing an annual report on the state of the Fire Services, and examining particular areas such as Community Fire Safety, Training, Diversity, the Retained Duty System and Performance Management. The Inspectorate is also responsible for Fire Safety enforcement on Crown Premises.

Decision

The Government is planning to abolish the fire inspectorate to reduce duplication of audit of fire and rescue services.

Organisation

HM Prisons Inspectorate for Scotland

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/Prisons/17208

Remit

The Inspectorate's main statutory responsibility is the regular inspection of individual prison establishments in Scotland . In carrying out this function, matters which are inspected and reported on include physical conditions, quality of prisoner regimes, morale of staff and prisoners, facilities and amenities available to staff and prisoners, questions of safety, and decency and contribution to reducing re-offending. HMCIP is also required to inspect Legalised Police Cells, and to produce an Annual Report which is submitted to the Scottish Parliament

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/Police/15403

Remit

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (commonly known as the Police Inspectorate or HMIC) is responsible for inspecting the eight Scottish police forces and four common police services. HMIC operates independently of the Police Forces, Police Authorities and the Scottish Government and exists to monitor and improve the police services in Scotland . HMIC does this by:

Inspecting Police Forces and organisations within the Scottish Police Services Authority; Carrying out 'Thematic' Inspections; and

Providing advice to Scottish Ministers

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/ipis

Remit

IPS is the independent Inspectorate for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the sole prosecuting authority in Scotland and also responsible for investigating sudden deaths and complaints against the Police which are of a criminal nature. The aim of the IPS is to make recommendations that will result in clear and measurable improvements in the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) service delivery, making COPFS more accountable and enhancing public confidence. The principal functions of the IPS are:-

• to inspect or arrange for the inspection of the operation of COPFS;
• to report to the Lord Advocate on any matter connected with the operation of COPFS which the Lord Advocate refers to us.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Macaulay Institute

http://www.macaulay.ac.uk/

Remit

To undertake research in the context of rural land use and resource management; to assess the environmental, economic and social impact of agricultural and related land use and the consequence of change resulting from factors and influence such as policy management.

Firm proposal

We will work with our environmental and rural research organisations, notably the Macaulay and Scottish Crop Research Institutes, to encourage them to come together in a new Institute.

Organisation

Moredun Research Institute

http://www.mri.sari.ac.uk/

Remit

To conduct scientific research on infectious diseases of livestock

Further work

The proposal based on the Macaulay and Scottish Crop Research Institutes, to encourage them to come together in a new Institute also has the potential to involve the Moredun Research Institute in the development of better integrated arrangements for natural resources science and research. This opportunity will be explored.

Organisation

Office of the Queens Printer for Scotland

Remit

Provides access to Scottish legislation and delivers a range of services to the public, information industry and government relating to the re-use of information created by the devolved government for Scotland, the Scottish Goverment.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS)

http://www.qmscotland.co.uk/

Remit

To provide information to the red meat industry.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Rowett Research Institute

http://www.rowett.ac.uk/

Remit

To advance understanding of the molecular and physiological aspects of mechanisms underlying nutrition in animals and man and to identify how this can improve sustainable agriculture, food quality and human health.

Firm Proposal

Proposed merger of Rowett Research Institute with the University of Aberdeen to create a new Institute of Nutrition and Health.

Organisation

Scottish Agricultural College

http://www.sac.ac.uk/

Remit

To support the development of land-based industries and communities.

Firm decision

To transfer funding of the higher education functions of the Scottish Agricultural College to SFC.

Further work

The proposal based on the Macaulay and Scottish Crop Research Institutes, to encourage them to come together in a new Institute also has the potential to involve aspects of the SAC's activities in the development of better integrated arrangements for natural resources science and research. This opportunity will be explored.

Organisation

Standards Commission for Scotland

http://www.standardscommissionscotland.org.uk/

Remit

The Standards Commission for Scotland is an independent body set up by the Scottish Parliament under the Ethical Standards in Public Life etc ( Scotland ) Act 2000. The aim of the Commission is to campaign for and encourage high ethical standards in public life through the promotion and enforcement of the Code of Conduct for Councillors and the Code of Conduct for Members of Devolved Public Bodies. The Commission also aims to ensure that the investigative and adjudicatory functions of the organisation are carried out effectively and in accordance with the legislation.

The Standards Commission for Scotland is made up of a Convener, five Commission Members and two independent Departments - the Office of Investigations, led by the Chief Investigating Officer, and the Office of Administration and Hearings, led by the Secretary to the Commission.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Scottish Crop Research Institute

http://www.scri.ac.uk/

Remit

To contribute to crop research; in particular to exploit the advantages and to solve the problems of crop production in northern Britain through plant breeding, improved cultural practices and improved environmentally sensitive systems of crop production.

Firm proposal

We will work with our environmental and rural research organisations, notably the Macaulay and Scottish Crop Research Institutes, to encourage them to come together in a new Institute.

Organisation

Scottish Institute of Sport

http://www.sisport.com/sisport/CCC_FirstPage.jsp

Remit

To work with and bring together key organisations in Scottish sport, support them in developing and delivering their single plan for sport.

Firm decision

Sportscotland is to merge with the Scottish Institute of Sport creating a new national organisation.

Organisation

Scottish Road Works Commissioner

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/acts2005/asp_20050012_en_1

Remit

The Commissioner has the general functions of-

(a) monitoring the carrying out of works in roads in Scotland;

(b) promoting compliance with the 1991 Act and obligations imposed under it; and

(c) promoting the pursuit of good practice by those persons who have functions conferred on or permissions granted to them by or under that Act,

as well as the particular functions conferred upon the Commissioner by or under that or the Trasport Scotland Act 2006.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

Sustainable Development Commission in Scotland

http://www.sd-commission.org.uk/scotland.php

Remit

Is the Government's independent advisor on sustainable development.
The Commission reports to the First Minister of Scotland on key policy areas including: energy, the economy, climate change, governance and food. Help government, local authorities and businesses put sustainable development at the heart of what they do.

What is proposed

No change

Organisation

Prison Visiting Committees (VCs) and the Association of Visiting Committees (AVC).

http://avc.bpweb.net/

Remit

Visiting Committeesare statutory bodies of volunteers appointed to monitor conditions in prisonson behalf of Scottish Ministers, operating independently to prison management. Prison Visiting Committees are appointed by Local Authorities whilst Young Offender Institution Visiting Committees are appointed by Scottish Ministers. Each Visiting Committee submits an Annual Report to Scottish Ministers

The Association of Visiting Committees was formed to promote the effective operation of Visiting Committees including training.The AVC produces an Annual report which is circulated to relevant interested parties.

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape

Organisation

Waterwatch Scotland

http://www.waterwatchscotland.org/web/site/home/home.asp

Remit

Waterwatch Scotland replaces the five former regional Water Customer Consultation Panels. As well as having a national remit, we also benefit from new and increased powers to make a difference for customers within the water industry in Scotland . These powers were increased through the Water Services etc. ( Scotland ) Act 2005.

Waterwatch Scotland will engage with the many varied interests and groupings that are represented within the broad customer range in Scotland .

Our role is to:

·represent customers

·investigatecomplaints

·influence policy

·informand advise

Further work

Considered as part of the scrutiny and complaints landscape.

Organisation

HUB Procurement Health

Remit

The Hub initiative is an Improved Procurement vehicle for community based premises. The proposed national, delivery vehicle would be responsible for the implementation of the programme and supporting local procurement.

What is proposed

Consideration is being given as to whether the a separate body is needed or whether thefunctions can be carried out by an existing organisation..

Organisation

Judicial Appointments Board

Remit

To provide an open and transparent judicial appointment system and to make recommendations to the First Minister for filling vacancies in the judicial offices of judge, sheriff principal and sheriff in Scotland.

What is proposed

The Board has operated since 2002 on an administrative basis but it is proposed to bring forward legislation to put the body on a statutory footing, bringing its position into line with Northern Ireland and England. This aims to strengthen judicial independence in Scotland

Organisation

Scottish Civil Enforcement Commission

Remit

This body was to be established under the Bankruptcy and Diligence (etc.) (Scotland) Act 2007. It was to be responsible for supervising enforcement in relation to debt and personal insolvency .

What is proposed

This body will not now be established and the Scottish Government will consider how best to deal with its proposed functions without the creation of a new public body

Organisation

Sentencing Council

Remit

The Scottish Government is considering the proposal to establish a Sentencing Council to give effect to a system of sentencing guidelines, thereby bringing greater consistency and transparency to the sentencing process.

What is proposed

The structure and precise role of any Sentencing Council is currently under consideration. We intend to consult on draft proposals in the next few months. This may in time lead to the establishment a new statutory body, but final decisions are yet to be taken.

Organisation

Scottish Futures Trust

Remit

To provide a better deal for taxpayers by combining opportunities for maximising investment levels and reducing costs.

What is proposed

Currently under consultation.

Organisation

Skills Development Scotland Ltd.

Remit

To ensure Scotland's people have the skills they need for success.

What is proposed

Merging Careers Scotland; SufI; skills and training functions of Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise to create a new organisation, expected to be in place by April 2008.

Organisation

Vetting and Barring Agency

Remit

To deliver the vetting and barring scheme for the children and protected adults workforce and encompassing Disclosure Scotland.

What is proposed

The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 established provisions for a vetting and barring scheme for those working with children and vulnerable adults. The new agency will replace Disclosure Scotland.