SPA Chief Executive's Report

Members considered the report which detailed activities involving SPA corporate staff since the previous Authority Meeting. Lynn Brown (LBrown) highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members sought a summary of the Authority’s view of the Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) Bill, as it stands. LBrown responded that the Authority’s position regarding the purpose of the bill was that it has to promote trust and confidence in policing. The Authority have always been supportive of Lady Angiolinis’ recommendations but have the view that some provisions could go further.
• LBrown highlighted that the Convener of the Criminal Justice Committee had thanked the attendees for their comments. Fiona McQueen added she was grateful for the opportunity to give the Authority’s perspective and to emphasise that improvements were not just in relation to legislation but culture. KKasper added that the evidence session provided an opportunity to stress the Authority’s commitment to ensure the complaints process is fair and transparent. KKasper that public trust is built when there are clearly stated outcomes so that is where focus should be. Lady Angiolini had noted that when the complaints system works, it is not a bad model but there are challenges in implementing it, which is where the Complaints and Conduct Committee will focus. KKasper thanked the Convener and members for their relevant questions. The Chair thanked those who participated.
• CCFarrell confirmed Police Scotland also gave evidence and they are broadly aligned with proposals. Those in attendance had informed the Committee that their opinion was the 2014 Conduct Regulations were no longer fit for purpose. The Chair suggested Police Scotland work to have an outline of key aspects of modernised police regulations to propose to Scottish Parliament..

The Authority RESOLVED to:
• NOTE the report.