Nursery World - Scotland takes step on children's rights

Scotland has moved a step closer to following the lead of Wales and Northern Ireland and appointing a children's commissioner as an independent advocate for children's rights at the heart of government. Minister for education, Europe and external affairs Jack McConnell told the Scottish Parliament last week that the Executive was 'sympathetic to the idea of a children's commissioner'. But he stopped short of making a commitment to creating the post.

Minister for education, Europe and external affairs Jack McConnell told the Scottish Parliament last week that the Executive was 'sympathetic to the idea of a children's commissioner'. But he stopped short of making a commitment to creating the post.

Mr McConnell said, 'Last year, the Executive asked the Education, Culture and Sport committee to consider if a commissioner would bring benefits that existing structures could not. We want to be clear about the functions that such a commissioner should have and the added value that will be provided. The Parliament is changing our political culture and extending consultation and participation. We must be sure that a commissioner would provide something more.'

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