Two thirds of staff considered quitting

Almost two thirds of British Transport Police officers and staff in Scotland have considered leaving their job because of the planned merger with the national force, new research has found.

The study, published by the Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research, also found 83% were either quite or very unsupportive of plans to integrate into Police Scotland.

The findings were released just a day after it was confirmed the controversial merger due to take place in April 2019 – has been delayed indefinitely.

Police Scotland said “unresolved issues” meant integration can’t be completed by the deadline “without compromising public safety”.

Critics of the plans have previously cited safety issues as one of their main concerns, alongside a “lack of a business case”.

Despite opposition, legislation for the merger was narrowly passed at Holyrood last year, with the Scottish Government insisting it would make transport policing more accountable.

The SCCJR study, which earlier this month surveyed 66% of those working for BTP in Scotland, uncovered a “deep strain of scepticism, cynicism and opposition” towards the move.

Factors included ongoing uncertainty over terms, conditions and pensions, as well as stress and low morale related to the merger.