Minister makes policing pledge

ARGUMENTS over moves towards a merged Scottish police force are over.

That was Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill’s claim during a visit to the region, insisting all parties are committed to making the new structure work.

Asked about opposition voiced by Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary and its commanding officer, and his ability to offer assurances, Mr MacAskill said: “It’s partly why I’m here. I’ve been meeting with the chiefs on a regular basis, and again it was an opportunity to meet with Chief Constable Shearer.

“I recognise that it’s not just police but politicians and the public that were divided over whether we go to a single service, but I think what you’ll find is that, although the detail has to go through the Parliament in the Police and Fire Bill, the argument is over.

“The Scottish Police Federation, ACPOS, have all said that people are now on board to deliver that single service. I welcome that commitment, I understand the views people took before and I respect them, but now we’re united in making sure we do what’s necessary to continue the outstanding service not just in Dumfries and Galloway but elsewhere.”

Mr MacAskill has stressed the need to remove the duplication of ‘back room’ police resources across the current eight forces.

Despite moves towards one national chief constable, he promises the region will retain distinct resources such as its own firearms unit and a dedicated press and communications office.

And promising that officers will not be pulled from the region, Mr MacAskill said: “I do get asked if officers are going to be relocated from Dumfries to Dundee or from Newton Stewart to wherever, and the answer is no.”

Blaming Coalition Government funding cuts for the move, which it is claimed could save £1.7 billion over 15 years, Mr MacAskill says he cannot guarantee no rise in crime or fall in detection rates.

He said: “I don’t think any Government in any jurisdiciton can give you an assurance there.”

But noting crime is at a 35-year low, he added: “What I can give you is an assurance that we’ll maintain a visible police presence and we’ll maintain the police numbers that we’re committed to.”



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