Last Monday (13th October 2008), Labour councillor Liz Santry confirmed publicly that, following the conclusion of the Baby P criminal case, Haringey Council will hold a special council ‘watchdog’ committee meeting to challenge and question officers and responsible councillors if any issues about Haringey Council’s performance are raised by the case.

Confirmation of the meeting, which had been requested by Liberal Democrats, was welcomed by opposition councillors but the Labour administration failed to go as far as to say that a special Full Council meeting would be called to discuss the case.

The Chair of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny committee stated that any special meeting on this case would include questioning of the Leader of the Council, Cabinet members, Chief Executive and the Children and Young People Director.

A special Overview and Scrutiny meeting will be arranged after the criminal case has been completed.

Cllr Gail Engert, Liberal Democrat Children, Schools and Families Spokesperson, commented:

“It is of utmost importance that, after the criminal trail has completed, councillors confirm for the public that a full and proper investigation has been undertaken by Haringey Council. This should include scrutiny of both Haringey Council and external agencies. This special scrutiny meeting is a welcome step in the right direction.”