A four-year remit has been removed for the probe, which is examining historical allegations of children being abused in care

An inquiry into child abuse in Scotland is set to continue for several years.

A four-year remit was originally set for the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, which began in spring of last year.

However the inquiry – which is examining historical allegations about the abuse of children in care – is set to be extended beyond its initial period after chair Lady Smith requested that more time be dedicated to it.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney confirmed he had agreed to the request today (Thursday 21 June).

He said: “A large number of applicants have already come forward and continue to do so, it is vital that the inquiry hears from as many survivors and witnesses as possible.

“That is why I have agreed to Lady Smith’s request to revise the original terms of reference to allow more time for the inquiry to complete its work, taking into account its remit, timescale and large number of institutions identified.

“It takes considerable courage for survivors to approach the inquiry and talk about their experiences of being in care as children. By raising awareness of historic abuse they are helping to uncover the nature and extent of the issue and the failings which allowed it to happen.”