Deputy to step up as Chief Inspector of Constabulary

Gillian Imery, the Assistant Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, is to take over as HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland as the present Chief Inspector, Derek Penman, steps down.

Mrs Imery will lead an annual programme of independent inspection, monitoring and evaluation of Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority. She will also provide professional independent advice on police matters, publishing reports of inspections and producing an annual report to ministers on the police service.

She has had a police career spanning more than 30 years.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson commented: "I am confident that Mrs Imery’s invaluable policing background and time already spent in HMICS will stand her in good stead as the new Chief Inspector."

Mrs Imery added: "I am extremely proud to have been appointed to the role of HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, and am optimistic about the part HMICS can play in supporting improvement in policing for the benefit of the Scottish public. I believe it is important to have independent and objective scrutiny of policing to ensure challenging issues are addressed as well as to highlight the positive contribution policing makes to our communities."