VICTIMS will be interviewed as part of a review into the way the Catholic Church in Scotland handles abuse allegations.

Former prison chief Dr Andrew McLellan CBE, who is heading up the commission, today vowed a "firm commitment to discovering the truth".

Announcing details of the commission's remit, Dr McLellan said commissioners will listen to the experience of survivors of harm and abuse within the Church.

The McLellan Commission aims to identify what aspects of safeguarding within the church have "helped or hindered" issues being raised.

Dr McLellan said: "With the commissioners now in place we can begin to undertake the challenging task that will be the work of the Commission.

"Of paramount concern for the commissioners is the contribution we can make to bringing about the best protection of many vulnerable children and adults.

"As well as setting up this commission, the Catholic Church in Scotland has also given a robust commitment to acting upon all of its findings and recommendations.

"This means that we have before us a significant opportunity to bring about material change."

Last year, it was announced that The McLellan Commission was to undertake "a critical review of safeguarding policy, procedure and practice within the Catholic Church in Scotland."

Today's remit also confirms that the commission will make recommendations for improvement.

Dr McLellan, who is a former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, added: "Today I emphasise my firm commitment to discovering the truth."

The commission will not "investigate or adjudicate on current or historical allegations".

Dr McLennan also revealed the names of the 11 commissioners that will assist him in the task.

Among them are Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham, Bishop John Arnold, from the Diocese of Westminster, and Ranald Mair, chief executive of Scottish Care and Roisin McGoldrick, from Glasgow School of Social Work. The final report is due to be delivered next summer.