25-05-2025
New laws could help prevent repeat of McClure's 'scandal', says MSP
AN MSP has welcomed reform to legislation which he believes will help avoid a repeat of the 'scandalous' circumstances surrounding the closure of Greenock law firm McClure's.
It is hoped new laws passed at the Scottish Government this week will help to 'modernise and improve' the way legal services are regulated in Scotland.
The Regulation of Legal Services (Scotland) Bill will introduce a more flexible, consumer-focused system which provides clearer and swifter redress for complaints.
Paul O'Kane, MSP for the West Scotland region, secured multiple amendments during the stage three debate on the legislation.
These include powers for regulators to compel solicitors to provide information which allows for more pro-active investigation, and additional measures to ensure effective and efficient operation of regulatory systems.
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Mr O'Kane said: 'The legislation is about increasing transparency and accountability in what up until now has often been a complicated system for people to navigate.
'The high-profile case of McClure's where clients were left with no answers, little information on complaints being investigated, and very few ways to vent their anger.
"This legislation could help prevent that scandalous situation from happening again by allowing regulators to be much more pro-active in investigating concerns raised.
'It was of course very satisfying to secure some important amendments to the legislation to enhance transparency and accountability.
"I fought for those amendments because they made some vital adjustments that increased the scope of how the law will help clients and consumers.'
