McConnell 'sorry' for homes abuse

First Minister Jack McConnell has made a "sincere and full" apology to the victims of abuse in children's homes.  He apologised on behalf of the people of Scotland, rather than the executive, to protect ministers from legal action. 

Mr McConnell told Holyrood that the abuse was "deplorable, unacceptable and inexcusable" - but stopped short of agreeing to a full public inquiry. That demand had been made by alleged victim Christopher Daly, who said the apology was "a huge leap forward".  

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4056927.stm