THE independent group set up by the police to advise them in the historical child abuse inquiry is unsatisfactory and may need new members, says the Home Affairs Minister.

Last week Senator Ian Le Marquand (pictured) refused to answer questions in the States on whether he was satisfied with the workings of the independent advisory group (IAG). But at a Scrutiny hearing this week the minister criticised the structure of the group, which is made up of members of the public appointed to advise the police on the major child abuse inquiry.

During the meeting Senator Le Marquand explained that he was uncomfortable answering Deputy Roy Le Hérissier’s question in the States because he was concerned that there was a danger of him having to express an opinion on a matter that he might have to judge in the future.

However, at the Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny meeting this week he said he felt more comfortable answering the question after receiving more information. He announced that there had been a public misunderstanding about the working of the group and that he was not satisfied with the way it was currently operating.