HMICS has published its Terms of Reference for its first review of the Scottish Police Authority.

HMICS made a commitment in its Scrutiny Plan for 2014-15 to carry out a programme of reviews of the SPA and Police Scotland.

The aim of this continuous improvement review is to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the leadership, governance and strategic planning within the SPA and look at best practice.

It will be proportionate and tailored to reflect the current maturity of the SPA as a new organisation operating within the Scottish policing landscape post reform.

In a three stage approach, HMICS will undertake an evidence based assessment of the SPA’s self-evaluation process and a routine scrutiny risk assessment of the organisation. Then it will liaise with the SPA to identify strengths and areas for improvement which have been highlighted by these assessments.

When the review is concluded early next year, a report will be published and laid before the Scottish Parliament.