Top prosecutor appointed to head Edinburgh whistleblowing probe

Edinburgh City Council has appointed an independent chair for its upcoming whistleblowing investigation.

Highly experienced: Susanne Tanner QC

The council is set to embark on two investigations – one looking into the handling of complaints against a social work manager who was found dead at Salisbury Crags and a second inquiry into the wider culture of the council.

Andy Jeffries, senior manager, Children’s Practice Teams, has been suspended on a “precautionary basis” while an investigation is carried out into the complaints against Sean Bell, who was awaiting trial for sexual assault when he was found dead in August.

Susanne Tanner QC will lead the first investigation, assisted by legal firm Pinsent Masons.

Council leader and Leith councillor Adam McVey, SNP, said: “The appointment of Susanne Tanner to head this independent inquiry will be welcome news for everyone.

“She commands great respect in the legal profession and her experience, ability and impartiality is unquestionable.

“Her track record speaks for itself and we can already see real progress in the inquiry under her as an independent chair.

“We expect to finalise a very clear and thorough terms of reference, setting out exactly what we are aiming to achieve through this inquiry - getting the assurance we need as elected members as well as identifying recommendations for positive changes that can be made to strengthen the culture of the council.”

Depute leader and Forth councillor Cammy Day, Labour, added: “I’m pleased this decision has cross-party support and this appointment now means the inquiry can move forward to look into the serious matters that have been raised.

“An important element will be the investigation team hearing from staff on any concerns they may have so I would urge anyone who wants to share information to come forward – everyone’s voices will be heard.”

A council press release reads: “Ms Tanner has a 23-year career in the legal profession in Scotland, including an appointment as an Advocate Depute with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and has been a QC since 2016.

“Her areas of practice include public inquiries and fatal accident inquiries, reparation, criminal and regulatory matters.

“She is a certified arbitrator, mediator and a tribunal chair. She is dual qualified as a barrister in England and Wales.”

The council has agreed to set aside £600,000 to fund the first investigation.

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