After writing to the Minister for Justice in July inquiring into the impact that the establishment of a Scottish Policing Board would have on the Borders Division of the Lothian and Borders police force, Jeremy Purvis MSP: Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale MSP, Jeremy Purvis has received an inadequate reply.

The response did not once mention the Borders police division or any implications that would be the result of such a policing board. It also ignored the concern surrounding the policing board’s existence and instead focused on the remit of the board.

Commenting, Jeremy Purvis stated:

“I find it inexplicable that my very direct questions concerning the implications for the Borders were not even acknowledged by the minister. The lack of detail is extremely concerning – had local implications, particularly the loss of local control, been considered when making the decision to create a Scottish Policing Board it would have been simple for the minister to answer my question. The fact that answers were not forthcoming is cause for alarm as it calls into question how robust the consultation process was and whether local repercussions have yet to be addressed.

“I will continue to press the minister to supply details of how this decision will affect the Borders.”