A Hampton couple who sparked a nationwide ethical debate on adoption when their black foster child was taken from their care have questioned the validity of the inquiry into the case.
Francis and Roger Holmes accused Richmond Council of using delaying tactics in an attempt to brush the matter under the carpet.
Child X
The inquiry was launched about a year ago after the Holmes foster child, known as Child X, was removed from the white couple by social workers, allegedly by force, and placed with a black family.
The council has denied that race played a part in its decision and said it was following Government guidelines which say that culture, race and religion should be considered when placing long-term foster carers, but should not be decisive.
The council obtained an injunction preventing details of the case from being discussed in the press.
But the Holmes silence was broken by a High Court judge who agreed the issues raised were of significant public interest, although restrictions on the childs identity remained.
Mrs Holmes told the Comet: We have been told that the council has received a draft of the inquirys report and is making alterations. It cant be independent if the council is doing its own corrections.
The couple have also been informed that when the final report is ready they will not be allowed to see it in its entirety.
Since Child X was removed, the couple, who have five children, have been denied any contact with the girl or news, contrary to what they were originally promised.
The delay has put the couple in limbo because part of the report will decide whether or not they can remain on the register for foster carers.
A council spokesman said the social services department had still not received the final version of the report, which will cost £43,000.
He said: A draft proof of the report was sent at the end of September and the reviewers are still working on it. Not a single word will be altered by the council - it is the report of independent reviewers.
The council has pledged to make those parts of the report not covered by a High Court injunction available to the public.
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