Adopted people and natural mothers have given a mixed reaction to new legislation granting them basic information and tracing rights.

Adoption groups have called for “a full criminal investigation” into the alteration of files relating to vaccine trials at Bessborough Mother and Baby Home.

People who lived or worked in 27 County Homes will not be able to give evidence to the Mother and Baby Homes Commission.

Adopted people and natural parents have given a cautious welcome to the Government’s proposed tracing and information legislation.

A group representing birth mothers is to challenge the process used to establish the Mother-and-Baby Home inquiry in the High Court.