Labour launch review of Police Scotland

Scottish Labour will today launch a review of Police Scotland, examining how the single force is accountable to local communities as well as the Scottish Police Authority and Scottish Government.

New Labour Justice Spokesperson Graeme Pearson will conduct the review based on information from rank and file officers, civilian staff, community groups and victim support staff.

The review will assess the accountability of Police Scotland, staffing levels and targets, with Pearson reporting back to Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale by the end of the year – in time for his proposals for reform added to the party’s 2016 manifesto.

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Police Scotland has faced criticism over its handling of the M9 car crash, cuts to civilian staff and services, its approach to stop-and-search and the deployment of armed officers.

Sir Stephen House last week announced his decision to step down as Police Scotland chief constable by the end of the year.

Pearson said: “Scotland's police officers are doing their best under very difficult circumstances. Instead of doing the job they trained for, too many are having to fill back office functions because of SNP Government cuts to civilian staff.

He added: “We supported the introduction of the single police force back in 2013, but something has gone badly wrong with its implementation. The resignation of Sir Stephen House was the right thing to do but the problems won't follow him out the exit door.

“Policing in Scotland needs a shake-up. We need to get back to the kind of community policing that made Scotland the envy of the world at one time.”