Although it has never been the case that ministers’ decisions have been biased or influenced by political considerations, it is a perception that is often hard to refute, so it is better that in the future those decisions will be taken away from the political spotlight and be made at arm’s length from ministers.Amendment 409 also provides for the panels to be able to draw on advice from HMIE, as well as information from the education authority and any other person, just as ministers may obtain expert advice from HM Inspectorate of Education at the call-in stage.The judgment in the case of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar v...