It established the Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland with the general function of promoting and safeguarding the rights of children and young people.

The Education, Culture and Sport Committee looked into the need for a Children’s Commissioner in 2001.

The consultation period ran from May 2001 and children were invited to give evidence in Holyrood.

A further report published in July 2002 by the Education, Culture and Sport Committee proposed a Bill to appoint a Children’s Commissioner.

[5] The legislation was passed towards the end of the 1st Scottish Parliament on 26 March 2003.