Police Officer numbers must be maintained

The latest Police Officer Quarterly Strength Statistics have shown that there has been a drop of 106 police officers in Scotland over the last year leaving the total at 17,265. Despite the drop the target to maintain 1,000 extra police has been maintained, with there being 1,031 more officers than in March 2007.

Scottish Conservative Justice Spokesman, David McLetchie MSP said:

"It is concerning that there has been such a sudden drop in police numbers over the last year, and the SNP must keep a sharp eye on the number of police officers to see that this does not become a trend.

"However, it is encouraging to see that the 1,000 extra police officers that the Scottish Conservatives helped secure have been maintained. Thanks to these extra officers we have a more visible police presence on our streets, deterring crime and making our communities safer.

"Any large drop in police officers could see this good work undone, and it should not be forgotten that the SNP originally wanted 500 extra police before the Scottish Conservatives negotiated more."

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