HMICS comments on deployment of armed officers

30 July 2014

Responding to an enquiry from the media, Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, Derek Penman confirmed

"HMICS is aware of the practice of Police Scotland to deploy a small number of specialist armed officers across Scotland. We consider these arrangements are rightly an operational decision for the Chief Constable and the current guidance issued to all police forces across the United Kingdom is being followed correctly." "These arrangements allow specialist officers to respond effectively to a spontaneous threat and have been put in place to protect all communities across Scotland. Indeed, access to such specialist resources is one of the key benefits identified from the creation of a single police service. The availability of specialist officers to appropriately support front line colleagues when not deployed on specialist duties and contribute to local policing priorities is also an efficient use of their skills and experience."

"This decision by the Chief Constable is supported by a strategic threat and risk assessment and will be subject to regular review. HMICS has been in dialogue with Police Scotland and will undertake an independent assurance role over the next quarterly review of the firearms standing authority."