Ministers accused over snooper proposal

MINISTERS have been accused of sending ‘attack dogs’ to ‘coerce’ criticis of the state snooper proposals.

A Holyrood committee has demanded that John swinney explains why officials targeted witnesses who were due to give evidence on the named Person plans.

MSPS were told senior civil servants set up meetings with people due to testify so they could ‘provide clarification’, according to emails released under freedom of information laws.

the education and skills committee is seeking clarification from mr swinney on allegations his staff proactively lobbied witnesses ahead of key evidence sessions.

Previously the education secretary claimed these were ‘routine meetings’, adding: ‘i have seen organisations come here and express their concerns.

‘i have then gone away and had various discussions with people so i can better understand their perspective.’ Witnesses approached by the scottish Government included officials from Police scotland, Colleges scotland and Action for Children.

some of those later changed their submissions, editing views on those given prior to Government meetings.

the committee meets tomorrow and has written to mr swinney seeking an explanation why witnesses were approached.

Yesterday committee member and Conservative MSP Oliver mundell said: ‘the named Person policy is badly thought out. sending the scottish Government attack dogs to coerce witnesses will not change the public’s mind.’

A scottish Government spokesman said: ‘the scottish Government engaged with stakeholders throughout the passage of the information sharing Bill.

‘We will continue to engage with stakeholders in the development of supporting materials in the interests of promoting better outcomes for children and families. to ensure those affected by developing law and policy are well informed, their concerns are heard, this engagement is essential.’