Vote of no confidence in police chairman

MSPs have ramped up the pressure on the beleaguered boss of the Scottish Police Authority by issuing a vote of no confidence.

An influential Holyrood committee delivered the damning assessment of Andrew Flanagan’s leadership after one MSP likened his management style to the way the Kremlin is run.

Serious concerns have been raised about how the SPA chairman treated a former board member Moi Ali, who had criticised holding meetings in private.

The justice sub-committee has been investigating complaints over a lack of transparency and accountability at the police watchdog, with Mr Flanagan appearing before MSPs earlier this month to give evidence.

“Mr Flanagan’s testimony to the subcommittee was frankly inadequate and we do not have confidence in his leadership,” said convener Mary Fee.

“Though he was apologetic, we are not confident he accepts he was wrong. “This issue remains unresolved.” MSPs have already written to the Justice Secretary to set out their “very serious concerns” over the management of the board.

Mr Flanagan has vowed to continue in the role despite the committee’s blunt assessment of his leadership.

“As I indicated in my evidence to the committee, I have publicly acknowledged recent mistakes without caveat or qualification,” he said.

Pressure is mounting on SPA chairman Andrew Flanagan.