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.
Review of investigation of whistleblowing complaints
Review of investigation of whistleblowing complaints
Both Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority have procedures in place for police constables and/or staff to report concerns internally. Currently, the 2006 Act requires the PIRC to audit the SPA and Chief Constable’s arrangements for handling relevant complaints. Section 13 gives the PIRC the power to audit and have oversight of the SPA and Chief Constable’s arrangements for handling whistleblowing complaints.
The PIRC would be required to keep under review all arrangements maintained by the SPA and the Chief Constable for the investigation of information provided in a whistleblowing complaint. It would also give the PIRC the power to make recommendations or give advice to them on the arrangements for the handling of whistleblowing complaints in the form of a report. Such a report would have to be published.
Q: What are your views on the proposals for the PIRC to audit and have oversight of the SPA and Chief Constable’s arrangements for handling whistleblowing complaints and to report and make recommendations on the arrangements?
A: The Authority supports these provisions in the Bill. However, see the paper apart for views on a further recommendation by Lady Angiolini in respect of whistleblowing.
