Open debate

Reform of the policing of a country is always a significant event. No doubt costs are a consideration, particularly in the current economic climate.

That is not, however, the only consideration. A review of the experiences of the London Metropolitan Police (effectively a single force there) and the police force in Eire (a single police force) affords many examples of the kind of difficulties a single police force can run into.

Consideration should be given to a systemic reform which would save costs but still provide cover where necessary by way of a reduced number of separate police forces operating completely independently.

In addressing and deciding these issues, the hope must be that – in this new Scottish Parliament – they will be fully debated and that the proposed reform of a single force will not be simply nodded through on procedure in a chamber full of empty seats.

Richard N M Anderson

Faculty of Advocates

Parliament House

Edinburgh