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View Full Version : North MSP seeks answers over new force plan



Nwicker60
07-Jun-12, 15:12
Rhoda Grant claims lack of clarity and detail

HIGHLANDS & Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant has lodged a series of questions with the Scottish Executive in relation to the new single Police Force.
Speaking today Rhoda Grant said “ I have obviously been concerned about the apparent lack of clarity and detail in relation to the formation of this new Force. In particular, I have been working with UNISON to try and secure police civilian roles up here in the North, by asking for Police ‘hubs’ to be located in the Highlands and Moray. However, I thought the appointment of a Police Board and the new Chief Constable of Scotland would be pivotal appointments that would need to happen first and soon, in order that we can be sure that they would have input with regard the important detail surrounding functionality and accountability”.
She continued “ The Cabinet Secretary for Justice has advised me that he expects the new Police Authority to be appointed in the Autumn and it will comprise of between seven and 11 members, all of whom will be appointed on a basis of their skills and expertise. He further advised that the new Chief Constable would also be appointed in the autumn”.
As part of his response to the series of questions asked by Mrs Grant, The Cabinet Secretary for Justice said “ The Scottish Police Authority and the Police Service will work with local Authorities and others to set national priorities. Those will be delivered and measured through the strategic Police Plan for Scotland and the local Police Plans for each Local Authority”. In his response the Cabinet Secretary for Justice also advised that Local Authorities would be able to develop their own models of scrutiny and engagement.
Rhoda Grant said “ I have been advised by Kenny MacAskill that the new Chief Constable will determine how the service is organised. He went on to advise that he thought there was considerable scope for specialist and support functions to be located throughout Scotland”.
In concluding Mrs Grant said “ This change to Policing as we know it is all geared to the service being more accountable, efficient and effective. Whilst I support the proposal, I am concerned by how the Government are going about effecting these changes. I think they are making massive changes too quickly, I am really concerned about the reversion of civilianisation and the fact that we could end up with a 70’s style form of police service. Lets hope the important appointments of the police authority and chief constable happen sooner rather than later in order that elected members amongst others can have their say and fight for local jobs and accountability”.