Human rights lawyer to oversee police enforcement
A leading human rights lawyer has been appointed to scrutinise Police Scotland’s use of emergency powers during the coronavirus crisis.
John Scott QC will be the chairman of an independent group examining how police are using the new powers granted by emergency legislation.
Officers now have the ability to fine or arrest those suspected of breaching lockdown rules.
Mr Scott is a solicitor advocate with more than 30 years experience in the legal profession. He was involved in the Lockerbie case appeal and previously led the Scottish Human Rights Centre.
Mr Scott is also the chairman of a review into mental health legislation.
Chief constable Iain Livingstone invited him to take on the new role, following consultation with justice secretary Humza Yousaf.
Mr Scott said: “These are exceptional and difficult times.
“In response, the Scottish Government has introduced exceptional measures, including significant new powers for Police Scotland. Given the importance in Scotland of policing by consent, the chief constable recognises that the use of such exceptional powers should be the subject of full transparency. I therefore welcome his invitation to chair a group to provide independent scrutiny of the exercise of those powers.
“I will engage closely with a range of key stakeholders to quickly set appropriate terms of reference for this work. I will also establish a reference group. This review should contribute to maintaining public confidence in the work of Police Scotland.”
The chief constable said the “vast majority” of people were obeying the lockdown rules and enforcement was only being used where necessary.
He said: “Nevertheless, these are extraordinary powers, introduced quickly for a significant moment in our history and it is essential our use of them is thoroughly and independently scrutinised.
“I am grateful to Mr Scott for agreeing to provide his substantial experience and abilities, which can bring significant value to our thinking and operational practice.”
Mr Yousaf said: “This is a very welcome, forward-thinking decision by the Chief Constable to ensure that the use of these important emergency powers by Scotland’s police officers are subject to independent review by a highlyregarded expert in human rights. This will complement the statutory scrutiny that the independent HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority are bringing to this issue.
“Police Scotland is playing a critical role in responding to public concerns and in ensuring social distancing in our communities in order to safeguard health, protect the NHS and save lives.”
Police spot checks around Edinburgh in the past couple of days have meanwhile revealed some members of the public are still breaching the Covid-19 lockdown rules.
Pictures have shown officers on Wednesday speaking to people who were sitting on benches on a path by the Water of Leith. Some were reportedly seen sitting on benches eating and drinking, while one person was spotted using their laptop.