The Children's Hearings (Scotland) Bill has passes its stage 1 vote in the Scottish parliament. The bill aims to change the children’s hearing system in Scotland with the creation of a Scottish Children’s Hearings Tribunal. The current system is 40 years old and has come under increasing criticism in recent years. The new tribunal will oversee local panels and carry out training and recruitment.

Despite passing this important stage there is concern over the lack of detail on some matters. The intended post of National Convener, who will be responsible for setting standards for the recruitment, support and training of local panel members, and for monitoring their implementation, is of particular concern to some ministers.

Children's Minister Adam Ingram said,

“I recognise a number of issues and concerns were raised in evidence when the Parliament's Education Committee looked at the bill. I am committed to making this bill the best it can be and will look at the issues raised carefully."

Subject to the parliamentary process, the bill's reforms are expected to be in force in 2012.