Commenting on the news that police chiefs will lay out plans on Monday on a structural review of Scottish policing which could see forces merged in effort to save money, Liberal Democrat Justice spokesperson Robert Brown MSP said: "This is a very bad idea which Liberal Democrats will resist every step of the way.

"A centralised police force gives too much power to one person, unbalances Scottish policing and risks damaging community links.

"I am hugely sceptical about claims it will save money - in the past centralisation often leads to greater bureaucracy and red tape, a top heavy structure and greater costs. This has certainly been true of every Local Government reorganisation.

"We have repeatedly warned that a "one size fits all" to policing would be hugely damaging in Scotland. What works in Glasgow is not necessarily suitable for Elgin, Wick, or Galashiels.

"There might be some scope to share some back office and specialist services, but the idea of a single centralised Scottish police force should be dumped right now.

"Centralising power to civil servants in Edinburgh, who have no real idea of the issues facing local communities will only be a negative step.

"I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Justice Secretary to ensure that the independence and local accountability of Scotland's 8 police forces is retained and that policing is not subject to central diktat and centralised targets."