Police officer figures still worryingly low

Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP has today said SNP ministers must urgently listen to the needs of police officers and staff as new figures revealed there are now 1,055 fewer officers than when Police Scotland was first formed.  

New figures show that as at the end of September:

• The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) police officers was 16,441.
• This is a drop of 112 officers since the first quarter of the year.
• It is also a drop of 1,055 officers since the SNP centralised Scottish policing in 2013.

Mr McArthur said:

“Police officer numbers are worryingly low, and the rapid decline raises big questions for the SNP government.

“Fewer officers puts communities at greater risk and leaves those who remain without the support they need. It is no wonder policing bodies have repeatedly warned of a public safety crisis.

“Officers, staff and communities all deserve better. Scottish Liberal Democrats have a realistic plan to ensure the needs of the service are met through proper resourcing.”