THE key to drafting effective legislation is to refine and improve on the status quo without inadvertently creating new problems, controversies or antagonisms, a balancing act that can be tricky to achieve.
Whether the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act achieves these aims is a moot point. Brian Sweeney, head of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, appears to have his doubts. He is the latest figure to voice fears that the new single Scottish fire service, due to come into effect next spring, could be open to political interference.
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