The Scottish Executive statistics showed there were 360 adoption applications during 2002, which was a 14% fall when compared with the previous year when there were 418 applications.

The number of applications has been falling steadily from 1,081 in 1983.

The figures also revealed that the time taken to deal with some applications has increased.

We must find ways to modernise and speed up the process so that children get the best possible service Cathy Jamieson, Education Minister

The proportion of cases reaching an outcome in under 60 days fell from 30% in 2001 to 25% in 2002, while the proportion taking between 120 and 180 days to process rose from 17% to 20%.

Education Minister Cathy Jamieson has promised reform of the adoption and fostering system.

She said: "Today's statistics show there has been a further drop in the number of successful adoption applications and that it is taking longer to process some applications.

"This can be a frustrating experience for prospective adoptive parents and any delay in giving a child a stable home must be avoided.

"We must find ways to modernise and speed up the process so that children get the best possible service."