Lord Scott

Justice Secretary Angela Constance announced the appointment of Lord Scott in an update to the Scottish Parliament.

Ms Caldwell, 27, was murdered in April 2005. In February last year her killer was convicted and given a life sentence for Emma’s murder and violent offences against other women.

Ms Constance said: “In March last year, I announced that there would be a Public Inquiry into the investigation of Emma’s murder in 2005 to provide answers to the victims and survivors involved and ensure that lessons are learned for the future. The other victims, as well as Emma’s mother Margaret and the rest of the family, deserve nothing less after the unbearable loss, pain and grief they have suffered.

“Lord Scott has a strong track record on human rights and I am pleased that someone of his experience, expertise and legal standing will lead this inquiry. Importantly, Emma’s family support his appointment.

“I will now consult Lord Scott on the terms of reference and seek the views of Emma’s family and others on the inquiry’s remit. I will update Parliament on the terms of reference and the timescale for the inquiry’s formal setting-up date in due course.”

Lord Scott said: “I am aware of the significant public interest in this inquiry and the importance it holds for Emma Caldwell’s family. I will discharge my duties as chair independently, thoroughly and to the best of my ability.

“I come to this role with three years of experience as a judge of the Court of Session and High Court of Justiciary. This followed over 20 years in the voluntary sector, primarily in the area of human rights, as well as over 30 years in private practice as a criminal defence lawyer and work in several reviews which scrutinised the use of various powers by the Police Service of Scotland.

“I look forward to discussing the terms of reference with the Cabinet Secretary and to establishing and working with an inquiry team to start our work as soon as possible.”