Human rights lawyer to review emergency police powers

John Scott QC has been commissioned by Chief Constable Iain
Livingstone QPM to review Police Scotland’s use of new emergency powers to
respond to the coronavirus outbreak.The respected human rights lawyer will
chair a group to provide independent scrutiny of how officers and staff are
applying new legislation.

The Chief Constable said: “The vast majority of people are
doing the right thing during this health emergency because they know it is the
best way to protect the NHS and save lives.

“Community policing has a vital role to play as we all make the changes and sacrifices needed to curtail the spread of coronavirus. With the support and co-operation of our fellow citizens, we will continue to focus on explaining the legal instructions, encouraging compliance, and using enforcement only where necessary.

“Nevertheless, these are extraordinary powers, introduced
quickly for a significant moment in our history and it is essential our use of
them is thoroughly and independently scrutinised. I am grateful to Mr Scott for
agreeing to provide his substantial experience and abilities, which can bring
significant value to our thinking and operational practice.”

John Scott QC said: “These are exceptional and
difficult times. In response, the Scottish Government has introduced
exceptional measures, including significant new powers for Police Scotland.

“Given the importance in Scotland of policing by consent,
the Chief Constable recognises that the use of such exceptional powers should
be the subject of full transparency.“I therefore welcome his invitation to
chair a group to provide independent scrutiny of the exercise of those powers.

“I will engage closely with a range of key stakeholders to
quickly set appropriate Terms of Reference for this work. I will also establish
a Reference Group. This Review should contribute to maintaining public
confidence in the work of Police Scotland. “

Mr Scott QC was commissioned after consultation with both
the Cabinet Secretary for Justice Humza Yousaf and Interim Chair of the
Scottish Police Authority (SPA) David Crichton. His group will report directly
to the SPA.

Cabinet Secretary for Justice Humza Yousaf said: “This is a
very welcome, forward-thinking decision by the Chief Constable to ensure that
the use of these important emergency powers by Scotland’s police officers are subject
to independent review by a highly-regarded expert in human rights. This will
complement the statutory scrutiny that the independent HM Chief Inspector of
Constabulary for Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority are bringing to
this issue.

“Police Scotland is playing a critical role in responding to
public concerns and in ensuring social distancing in our communities in order
to safeguard health, protect the NHS and save lives.

“I am very grateful for the commitment of Scotland’s police
officers and staff, through day and night, and the Chief Constable’s very clear
approach to engaging, explaining and encouraging people to observe social
distancing and, where necessary, enforcing the law using the new powers
Parliament has given them.”

SPA Vice Chair David Crichton said: “Police Scotland’s
officers and staff are playing an essential role in keeping the public informed
and safe during the COVID-19 emergency, putting themselves on the frontline in
the battle against this virus in doing so. They are applying unprecedented
powers at this time and the judgements they make will come under growing
pressure as the period of restriction continues.

“Policing in Scotland has long maintained the principle
of policing by consent and the Authority has a responsibility to provide both
support and oversight to protect that principle during this time. We therefore
welcome the opportunity to do this in the public interest and in partnership
with Police Scotland, John Scott QC and other stakeholders.”