Survey says most police want guns

Officers feel ‘ill-equipped’

Almost two-thirds of Scotland’s police officers want to have access to a handgun, according to new research.

A survey by the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) found 64% of officers support such a move.

The finding came as around an eighth of the workforce said they believe their existing personal protective equipment (PPE) is “ineffective”.

Federation bosses said officers feel “vulnerable and ill-equipped”.

The SPF represents 98% of all officers in Scotland. At its conference in spring, the SPF debated the suitability of the PPE issued by Police Scotland and a more detailed membership study on the issue was authorised. The findings were published yesterday.

Across the force, 64% of officers said they would like to have access to a handgun and 77% said they would be willing to be trained in its use. Within the 25 to 34 age group, the percentage favouring access to a handgun rose to 73%.

“Younger officers, those most likely to be working in response roles, clearly articulate the risk they feel from firearms and edged weapons,” the report stated.

It went on: “When asked whether officers would be prepared to be trained in and use a handgun if required (as opposed to routinely being armed), 77% said they would.

“This is the model currently adopted in Norway where handguns are secured in vehicles but can be quickly accessed.”

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: “The safety of our officers is paramount and they all undergo regular officer safety training.”