Council defends choice

Sixty-four-year-old David McKendrick was the best candidate for
social work director in North Lanarkshire, the inquiry into ‘jobs
for the boys’ allegations in the new authority was told last
week.

North Lanarkshire councillor William Wilson said the committee
had not discussed age when the appointment was made, and McKendrick
had the option to continue for 18 months beyond retirement age.

The inquiry, ordered by Scottish Secretary Michael Forsyth after
complaints by the Local Government Staff Commission and Unison, is
due to report later this month.