Commenting on reports that Scotland’s police forces are facing a funding gap of around £34.7 million in 2010/11, Liberal Democrat Justice spokesperson Robert Brown MSP said: “This funding gap must be dealt with as a matter of urgency.

“The SNP need to reassure the public that community safety won’t be jeopardised by this black hole in police funds.

“The Justice Secretary must meet police chiefs urgently to make sure that key promises, for instance boosting police recruitment, will go ahead.”