SNP forges ahead with merger bid for police
PLANS to merge British Transport Police (BTP) and Police Scotland moved a step closer yesterday after ministers published a Bill at Holyrood.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson confirmed legislation has been submitted that would see policing of the railways brought under the control of the single force when new powers are devolved next year.
This is despite concern from BTP officers and opposition parties, who fear it could lead to an exodus of staff and shift focus from the railways to general police duties.
The Scottish Government claims the merger will lead to a more efficient service and pledged that employees’ jobs, pay and pensions will be protected.
Mr Matheson insisted high standards of security would be retained throughout the integration period and that cross-Border policing would remain ‘seamless’.
The BTP Federation said it is reviewing the details of the Bill and responses to a Government consultation, which have been
‘Strong case has not been made’
published online. A spokesman said: ‘It is concerning to see that so many respondents consider a strong case for integration has not been made.
‘Despite these results, the Scottish Government is continuing with one option of integrating BTP into Police Scotland.’
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Douglas Ross accused the SNP of pushing the changes ahead without the support of BTP staff, while loading more work on the already overstretched Police Scotland.
He said: ‘These plans to change BTP will leave people thinking that the SNP is determined to cut ties with anything that happens to include the name Britain.’
Scottish Labour justice spokesman Claire Baker said: ‘The SNP should respect the independence of the British Transport Police and stop their attempt to railroad this bill through parliament.’
The Railway Policing (Scotland) Bill is only the first step in the merger, with further legislation needed both at Holyrood and Westminster to complete the process.
Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said the force was committed to working with the Scottish Government and BTP to ensure any future integration would be ‘seamless’.