MSP 'accuracy' probe to be held

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/7921997.stm

Version 0 of 1.

A Holyrood committee has agreed to investigate complaints on the accuracy of statements made in the Scottish Parliament, BBC Scotland has learned.

The move, by the procedures committee, came after a request from Holyrood presiding officer Alex Fergusson.

It was made amid persistent opposition claims that ministers had been misleading parliament.

The probe will examine the way in which the accuracy of all MSPs' comments are policed, whether ministers or not.

It is understood the committee, which has been considering the matter behind closed doors, is still working out the scope of any inquiry.

Funding issue

It has been carrying out background research into how the accuracy of questions and answers are policed in other parliaments around the world.

Mr Fergusson has recognised growing concerns among all MSPs on the issue, but has pointed out the veracity of statements made in parliament by members was not a matter for him.

His comments came after a disagreement over whether First Minister Alex Salmond misled MSPs over the continuation of funding for the Inter Faith Council.

He has denied accusations from the Liberal Democrats he told parliament the issue was resolved before it had been.

That issue is being investigated separately under the ministerial code, although Mr Salmond has expressed confidence in being cleared.