The Chief Constable said: The last 12 months have demonstrated the relentless nature of policing – our mission to prevent harm, support communities and keep people safe has been evident throughout the pandemic. The reform of policing in Scotland has brought many benefits to all communities across the country, while £200m has been returned to the public purse every year compared to legacy arrangements.
Justice secretary Humza Yousaf said the justice system in Scotland had stepped up to the challenges of the pandemic This year has highlighted the critical role Police Scotland plays in keeping communities safe, and I’m pleased that our record £1.3bn investment in policing will see us exceed our commitment to deliver a £100m boost by 2021, Mr Yousaf said.
SCOTLAND’S top law officer suggesting using sweeping terrorism-related legislation to cope with the pandemic, the Scottish Government has inadvertently revealed. Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC told SNP ministers the UK Civil Contingencies Act could be invoked to close pubs, clubs and cafes after the police warned they lacked the powers to do so north of the border. Mr Wolffe said the Scottish Government would have to ask the UK Government to use the law, which was created after the terror attacks on the US on September 11, 2001. According to official minutes, Nicola Sturgeon did not discount the idea when it was floated on March 20 last year, but said the UK Government was “hesitant” about the law.