NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE: FINNIE CONCERNED IMPROVEMENTS WILL HAVE TO WAIT
John Finnie MSP, Justice spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, today expressed concern at the appointment of Phil Gormley, former deputy director of the National Crime Agency, as chief constable of Police Scotland.
Mr Gormley will take over in the wake of criticisms highlighted by Mr Finnie, including the force's policy of arming officers to attend routine incidents and its approach to stop and search.
John Finnie, Independent MSP for the Highlands and Islands and the Scottish Greens’ lead candidate for the region in 2016, said:
“This is not the appointment many, myself included, had hoped for.
“This was an opportunity to address many of the concerns the public have about the single service. That could have happened with the two serving officers who were shortlisted. I remain to be convinced it can with someone who can only have passing knowledge of Scotland, its police service and community expectations.
“I suspect the new chief will say he needs a period to reflect, meaning the much-needed drive to enhance local community policing and its scrutiny is going to have to wait. Of course, we must congratulate the successful candidate and wish him well in his new post.”