Report Summary
The Scottish Police Authority responded to a Scottish Government consultation on the Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) Bill. This was submitted on 6 December 2024.
This should be read alongside the Authority’s additional written submission on the Bill.
This PDF document above captures the Authority's submission to a Government consultation which was conducted via an online survey.
To view as accessible content please use the sections below.
Investigations involving constables from outwith Scotland
Investigations involving constables from outwith Scotland
Section 14 of the Bill proposes to amend the 2006 Act to allow the PIRC, where directed to do so by the appropriate prosecutor, to investigate serious incidents or potential criminal offending by English, Welsh and Northern Irish police officers who are carrying out policing functions in Scotland, either on behalf of their own forces or on behalf of Police Scotland.
The PIRC would be able to investigate serious incidents, and some deaths involving these constables (that have to be investigated by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) under legislation on fatal accidents and sudden deaths, etc.). Depending on the circumstances this could happen if the chief officer or constable of the English or Welsh force or the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) makes the request, or if the Chief Constable of Police Scotland requests it.
Q: What are your views on the proposals to allow the PIRC to investigate serious incidents, potential criminal offending and some deaths involving English, Welsh and Northern Irish constables who are carrying out policing functions in Scotland?
A: The Authority supports this provision in the Bill.
