Emma Caldwell: First Minister and Justice Secretary's meeting with family

First Minister John Swinney and Justice Secretary Angela Constance met with Margaret Caldwell, mother of Emma Caldwell, and family members to discuss next steps in setting up a Public Inquiry into the investigation into Emma's murder in 2005.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“I am very grateful to Mrs Caldwell for meeting with us today. It was my first opportunity as First Minister to express my deepest condolences to her on the death of Emma, and the trauma she and her family have experienced. The family have endured heartbreaking loss, pain and grief for many years and they have shown immense courage in their determination to get justice for Emma.

“As announced in March, an independent, judge-led, statutory Public Inquiry will take place into the investigation of Emma's murder in 2005. The Justice Secretary and I had the opportunity to listen to the family's views on next steps, including the appointment of a Chair and ways to progress the investigation of the initial police inquiry. We appreciated their time and views, which allows us to move forward with the work to be done ahead of establishing the Inquiry. It is vital that the Chair has the confidence of the family and we will continue to engage with them on this.

“Once a Chair has been appointed, we will work alongside that Chair and Emma's family in setting and agreeing the terms of reference for the Inquiry.”