18ASafeguarding of interests of children in proceedings relating to the assumption of parental rights.

1

In any proceedings under section 16(8), 16A(3) or 18(3) of this Act, the sheriff—

a

shall consider whether it is necessary to appoint a person for the purpose of safeguarding the interests of the child in the proceedings ; and

b

without prejudice to any existing power to appoint a person to represent the interests of the child, may, if he thinks fit, appoint a person to act for the purpose specified in paragraph (a) above.

2

The power to make rules under section 32 of the [1971 c. 58.] Sheriff Courts (Scotland) Act 1971 shall include power to make rules providing for—

a

the procedure in relation to the disposal of matters arising under this section;

b

appointment under subsection (1) of this section, the functions of a person so appointed and any right of such a person to information relating to the proceedings in question.