Dr Elliott giving evidence

The Scottish Parliament is undertaking an Inquiry into “Scotland's Commissioner Landscape: A Strategic Approach”.

The Finance and Public Administration Committee Inquiry is assessing whether a more coherent and strategic approach is needed for the creation of such commissioners in Scotland. A 'Commissioner is any officeholder (Commission, Ombudsman or Commissioner) whose terms and conditions of appointment and annual budget are set by the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body.

This Inquiry was spurred by plans to introduce seven new commissioners through legislation on top of the seven that have already been approved. However, there is widespread recognition of a lack of evidence as to the role and function of commissioners.

In the evidence session Dr Ian C. Elliott noted that the potential proliferation of commissioners in Scotland could lead to cross-cutting agendas and a duplication of effort. Whilst these bodies can perform an important scrutiny role that is independent of government, Dr Elliott noted that it is also important that the public understand their role and how to access their services. Having many, smaller commissioners could create a cluttered landscape, whilst having fewer, but larger commissioners might give greater clarity to the public whilst also enabling commissioner bodies to adopt a strategic approach.

The Committee aims to publish its report on the Inquiry by September.

The Official Report of the evidence session is available here

Finance and Public Administration Committee - 21 May 2024

 


First published: 1 June 2024