News

Victims of alleged child abuse giving evidence at the first public inquiry by the children's commissioner for Wales are to be paid a maximum of £10,000 towards their legal costs, writes Alex Dobson.

The eight claimants who are due to give evidence at the Clywch into the activities of alleged paedophile, John Owen, had refused to take part unless they were given funding for independent legal representation.

Solicitor Lynda Roberts, who is representing the alleged victims, said: "We are pleased that the commissioner has offered to pay, but it is disappointing that the amount has been limited."

The Commissioner, Peter Clarke, said that he had made the decision after careful consideration and had taken into account the fact that there was a QC to assist witnesses, and that there was to be no cross-examination.

The alleged abuse was said to have taken place at a school in South Wales where Owen taught as a drama teacher. Owen was found dead last year after committing suicide the day before he was to stand trial on criminal charges relating to the alleged abuse.

The Clywch inquiry resumes on 15 April.