Deputy police chief shelves retirement plan

Police Scotland Deputy Chief Constable Designate Iain Livingstone has confirmed he has postponed his plans to retire while allegations of gross misconduct against the chief constable are investigated.

Chief constable Phil Gormley has been granted “special leave” while two allegations are investigated.

The Scotsman revealed on Saturday that Mr Livingstone had reconsidered his plan to take early retirement.

Yesterday, it was confirmed Mr Livingstone, the most senior of the service’s three deputy chief constables, is taking over leadership of Police Scotland until further notice.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) confirmed on Friday it was investigating a new allegation of gross misconduct by Mr Gormley, in addition to one announced in July.

Mr Livingstone has written to the chair of the Scottish Police Authority and the Justice Secretary to confirm he will remain in the post.

He said: “Having discussed the matter at length with my wife, family and others, I intend to continue in post for the foreseeable future.

“I consider it my duty to remain in service.”