SPA calls for evidence on armed officers

The Scottish Police Authority has issued a call for evidence as part of its review of the deployment of armed officers by Police Scotland.

The issue became a matter of public concern earllier this year when it emerged that around 275 trained armed response vehicle (ARV) officers are deployed to routine incidents with visible firearms across Scotland. In response, the SPA and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland agred to conduct a complementary programme of review and inquiry.

SPA will take a lead in assessing the level and nature of public concerns are over the current Police Scotland policy; how effectively Police Scotland are engaging with the public and considering the impact on communities in implementing their approach; how Police Scotland can best address any public concerns and provide necessary reassurance to communities; and what, if any, lessons might be learned around how operational decisions with wider strategic or community impact are communicated to oversight bodies and other key interests.

Additional public evidence sessions will be held across the country in the autumn. Details are to be announced.

The SPA inquiry will draw together both its own evidence and that of the HMICS assurance review, and report with overall findings and recommendations to the full Authority at its public meeting on 17 December.

Click here to access the evidence form. Responses must be returned no later than Friday 17 October 2014.