Chamberlain: Profound problems in Scottish policing demand action

Responding to the comments made by the Chief Constable of Police Scotland, Sir Iain Livingstone, that the force is “institutionally discriminatory and racist,” Scottish Liberal Democrat deputy leader and former police officer Wendy Chamberlain MP said:  

“There are profound problems at the heart of Scottish policing which require urgent and meaningful action.  

“The recent report by Mark Hamilton into the culture and operating practices of Police Scotland proposed a series of sensible measures, such as making all staff and officers undergo equality and diversity training and reviewing the recruitment and selection process for the firearms unit.  

“Scottish Liberal Democrats also want to see steps taken to prevent officers from exiting the force or retiring before disciplinary or misconduct procedures can take effect.  

“Making these changes requires difficult reflections and responsible leadership, but that is vital if the service is to win the trust of staff and the wider public.”