A FIVE-PERSON panel appointed to consider the recommendations of the Leveson Report in Scotland has been announced.
The group of legal experts and former journalists will be chaired by former Solicitor General Lord McCluskey and has been tasked with considering the findings and certain recommendations made by Lord Justice Leveson particularly how statutory underpinning of a new independent system of self-regulation of the press could work in Scotland.
However, a spokesman for Scottish Labour last night said the party’s support of the panel was “in doubt” after their suggestion of advocate and ex-Labour MSP Brian Fitzpatrick’s inclusion on the expert group was rejected.
Labour leader Johann Lamont has written to First Minister Alex Salmond, questioning why she was not afforded the “courtesy” of an explanation about why Mr Fitzpatrick was not included.
Labour also claimed they found out about the appointments “by press release”. Sources in other parties say they received written confirmation of the panel before any public statement was issued.
“I wish to express, in the strongest possible terms, my complete dismay at the way you have handled the selection process,” reads the letter.
“I regard it as a grave discourtesy and would urge you even at this late stage to reconsider your exclusion of our nominee.”
The committee is made up of director of communications at Victim Support Scotland, former president of the National Union of Journalists and former assistant editor of the Herald David Sinclair, Regius Professor of Public Law and the Law of Nature and Nations at Edinburgh University Professor Neil Walker, senior partner of Levy & McRae Peter Watson and independent media production professional Ruth Wishart.
Lord McCluskey was nominated by independent MSP Margo McDonald, while Peter Watson was put forward by Conservative leader Ruth Davidson.
Mr Salmond said he had selected a “balanced panel” featuring “experts in Scots law, respected journalists, legal practitioners and someone with a background in supporting those affected by crime and malpractice.”
He added: “I am grateful to each of them for bringing their knowledge, expertise and commitment to this issue and look forward to receiving their recommendations.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Ms Lamont, along with the other party leaders, was informed of the panel’s composition in correspondence from the First Minister’s office before details were issued to the media.”
The panel is invited to provide advice and recommendations within three months.