Monday 13 Jul 2015 @ 14:20
Scottish Government
Printable version

Police call handling to be urgently reviewed

Ministers formally direct HMICS to review all call handling in light of M9 crash incident.

In light of the tragic events that occurred near the M9 outside Stirling this week and Police Scotland’s handling of a call about the incident, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson yesterday formally directed Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) to undertake an urgent review of all police call handling in Scotland

The HMICS review will focus broadly on all call handling procedures. It will come in addition to the ongoing independent inquiry specifically into the M9 incident by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.

It follows the news yesterday that Lamara Bell, who was involved in the M9 incident, died of her injuries this morning in hospital.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said yesterday:

“I would like to convey my heartfelt sympathies on behalf of the First Minister, the Scottish Government and myself to the families of Lamara Bell and John Yuill. This is an extremely tragic case and I welcome the full investigation into what has happened that is being undertaken by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner. It is essential that answers are found quickly.

“It is on this basis that, following discussion with the First Minister, I have today directed Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary to undertake a formal investigation and review of call handling and process within Police Scotland’s Contact Command and Control Centres. I have spoken to the Chief Constable and this review has the full support of Police Scotland.

“This independent review will provide the Scottish Government with an accurate picture of capacity and capability at present, and clearly identify any issues so they can be promptly remedied. This will assist in providing assurance around the operation of call handling within Police Scotland’s Contact Command and Control Centres. On completion the report will be submitted to Ministers who will consider its recommendations.

"This will be a thorough and speedy review that will help to ensure that the people of Scotland can have full confidence in this vital public service."

 

Channel website: http://www.gov.scot/

Share this article

Latest News from
Scottish Government

Children (Care and Justice) Bill passed

26/04/2024 13:25:00

Landmark bill passes Stage 3.

Building a New Scotland: Justice in an independent Scotland

26/04/2024 10:05:00

This paper sets out the Scottish Government's vision for justice in an independent Scotland.

Bute House Agreement ends

25/04/2024 15:05:00

FM thanks departing Ministers and commits to continue consensus-building approach.

Justice in an independent Scotland

25/04/2024 12:05:00

Independence would enable Scotland to take its own decisions to address issues such as drugs and gambling, and increase cooperation with international justice partners, according to a new paper published by Justice Secretary Angela Constance

Island investment

24/04/2024 14:20:00

Deputy First Minister welcomes completion of new £49 million Stornoway terminal.

Help for families of infants

24/04/2024 13:15:00

Cash-first approach to help with infant food insecurity.

Clean heating and energy efficiency grants to get to Net Zero

24/04/2024 12:15:00

£11 million grant funding confirmed for public sector bodies.

Gender identity healthcare

24/04/2024 11:05:00

Improving gender identity healthcare for children and young people.

£30 million paid this year to help households with higher energy bills

23/04/2024 15:05:00

People in Scotland have received more than £30 million via two Scottish Government benefits to help them deal with increased energy costs this winter, new statistics have shown.   

Supporting vulnerable witnesses

23/04/2024 12:05:00

More child and vulnerable adult witnesses involved in serious criminal trials will have access to specialist suites to pre-record evidence, away from the courtroom, following a further £2 million investment from the Scottish Government.