Current status: Initiated by the Scottish Government. Answered by Angela Constance on 11 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what progress it has made on the recommendation of the Criminal Justice Committee that an independent commission should be established to consider legislation around prostitution and the support required for those seeking to exit prostitution.
The Minister for Victims and Community Safety said during Stage 1 of the Prostitution (Offences and Support) Scotland Bill on 3 February, that work to establish an independent Commission would commence immediately. I am pleased to announce that Fiona Taylor QPM has today been appointed to Chair the Independent Commission on the Criminalisation of the Purchase of Sex in Scotland and will begin work straight away.
Fiona Taylor brings significant experience to the issues and challenges engaged in this important area of work, having had a distinguished career including serving as Deputy Chief Constable and Interim Chief Constable of Police Scotland.
The Commission will provide recommendations to Ministers on how to safely and effectively criminalise the purchase of sex in Scotland with particular focus on ensuing any new offence is operationally effective and enforceable and identifying the requirements of a deliverable and sustainable support package for those who wish to exit prostitution. The Commission will report to Ministers within 12 months of commencing.
Recognising the value and importance of lived experience will be at the heart of the Commission. The Chair will be supported by expert members who will be appointed in due course.