21st March 2004

PLANS for the final stages of the Holyrood Inquiry have been revealed. The Inquiry, which resumes its public hearing tomorrow (Monday 22nd March), will sit for three days next week and five days the following week.

The session on 2nd April will be the 42nd day of public evidence covering the progress of the parliamentary building project from early 1997 to the present day.

The next step will be for Lord Fraser to reflect upon what has been learned over the last 6 months and consider whether any matters require clarification. He will also assess whether the evidence on any particular issue is incomplete or if there is any conflict between the evidence of individual witnesses.

Four days have been set aside early in May for further hearings, although it is unlikely to involve calling new witnesses. Other principal parties to the Inquiry may also seek to have witnesses recalled or may be given the opportunity to question witnesses. A decision on whether this secondary phase is required will be made next month.

Lord Fraser plans to hear evidence on sensitive matters of security in private although any conclusions that are drawn from this evidence will be reflected in his report.

Closing statements will be made on Tuesday 25 May and Wednesday 26 May. It is expected that John Campbell, QC, Counsel to the Inquiry, will present a summary of the evidence and deal with legal and other issues which have arisen. Other participants will also have the opportunity to request to address Lord Fraser at this stage.

The Inquiry will also consider any final written submissions that are presented.

Lord Fraser will require time to assess the evidence and any submissions made but is expected to have his substantive report finalised during the summer months. Circumstances may require him to re-open the Inquiry after that Report - a costly step he is anxious to avoid.

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