Police sexism claims cannot be ignored

POLICE Scotland insists that it’s delivering a ‘21st-century’ service – but a worrying new report casts doubt on this boast.

A watchdog has uncovered serious allegations about sexism and racism in the ranks. Harrowing stories emerged of women who said they were sexually assaulted and subjected to harassment.

Some of the alarming testimony paints a picture of outdated and unacceptable attitudes and behaviour.

Sexist jokes and innuendo and blocked promotions add up to a catalogue of claims that can’t simply be dismissed.

The leadership of the force has promised change – and the vast majority of officers deplore discrimination of all kinds. But only days ago Police Scotland apologised ‘unreservedly’ to a female firearms officer after she won a victimisation case.

And policing is under the microscope as never before following the conviction of Met Police officer Wayne Couzens for the murder of Sarah Everard.

Last year, former Lord Advocate Dame Elish Angiolini said she was ‘deeply concerned’ to hear about discrimination experienced by female officers and staff.

During the pandemic, rank-and-file officers had a tough job, enforcing lockdown laws and sometimes putting their own health and safety at risk to do so.

Most of them will be appalled at the findings of Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary – it appears that they are being let down by a minority of colleagues and superiors with antiquated views.

Top brass must act urgently to stamp them out to ensure there is no place for prejudice in one of our most important public services.