Legal post reform case ‘strong’ says Sturgeon
Replacements as Scotland's top lawyers have been appointed, as the shadow of reforming one of the roles looms.
Dorothy Bain QC was approved as the new Lord Advocate,whileruthcharterisqcwasselectedasscotland's next Solicitor General. It is the first time both posts have been simultaneously held by women.
Calls have intensified in recent months to split the powers of the Lord Advocate - who acts as both the chief legal adviser to the Scottish Government and Scotland's top prosecutor.
During a debate on the appointments, which were passed unanimously in Holyrood on Thursday, opposition parties again pushed for the separation of powers, particularly following the Alex Salmond scandal which dogged the latter years of the last parliamentary term.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said there is a "strong, prima facie case" for the separation of powers, repeating her election pledge to consult on whether changes should be made.
"However, it is important that Parliament considers the precise details of any reform carefully," she said.
"Change, depending on the nature of it, may require primary legislation including possible amendment to the Scotland Act. There are complex issues involved but I can confirm today that the government will take forward a consultation in due course."
Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross said although he is confident Ms Bain will handle her post "with dedication and professionalism", the dual role of Lord Advocate still represents a "serious conflict".