Single police force ‘needs new complaints system’

AN SNP backbencher today called for a new independent police complaints commission following the Scottish Government’s announcement it will introduce a single police force for the whole of Scotland.

Edinburgh Southern MSP Jim Eadie said under the present system complaints in one area are investigated by one of the other forces and by the Police Complaints Commissioner for Scotland.

But the disappearance of the current eight forces means a new approach will have to be found.

Mr Eadie said an independent complaints commission would ensure all complaints were handled transparently in a way that could hold the new force to account.

He said: “A single police force must safeguard and guarantee the independence of the police and ensure democratic accountability for all communities.

“It is vital that we have a robust complaints system.”