To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department for what reasons no (a) police advisers or (b) persons with special knowledge of policing in Scotland have been appointed to the Sheehy inquiry team; and if he will consider extending its membership to incorporate police officers.

My right hon. and learned Friend considered it important for the inquiry to be conducted by a fully independent team with expertise in a number of disciplines. The inquiry is, however, working very closely with the police service. My right hon. and learned Friend does not propose to change the composition of the inquiry team.