Part 2The Principal Reporter and the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration

Functions of SCRA

20Assisting Principal Reporter

SCRA must—

(a)assist the Principal Reporter in carrying out the functions conferred on the Principal Reporter by virtue of this Act or any other enactment, and

(b)facilitate the carrying out of those functions.

21Provision of accommodation for children’s hearings

(1)SCRA must provide suitable accommodation and facilities for children’s hearings.

(2)Accommodation and facilities must, so far as practicable, be provided in the area of each local authority.

(3)Accommodation and facilities must be dissociated from courts exercising criminal jurisdiction and police stations.

22Independence of Principal Reporter

(1)Nothing in this Act authorises SCRA or any other person to direct or guide the Principal Reporter in carrying out the functions conferred on the Principal Reporter by virtue of this Act or any other enactment.

(2)This section is subject to section 18(1)(e).

23Directions

(1)The Scottish Ministers may give SCRA general or specific directions about the carrying out of its functions.

(2)SCRA must comply with a direction under subsection (1).

(3)The Scottish Ministers may vary or revoke a direction under subsection (1) by giving a subsequent direction under that subsection.