Police pay out £5m on settling claims

Almost £5 million of police funding was spent on settling legal claims in the 2021-22 financial year, figures have shown.

Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesman Liam Mcarthur called on police chiefs to ensure claims are kept to a minimum amid growing financial strain.

The figures obtained by the party using freedom of information (FOI) legislation revealed a total of £4,867,363 was forked out by Police Scotland to cover claims.

A total of £2,382,635 was spent on employer liability claims while a further £1,683,240 related to public liability and £801,488 was spent on motor liability.

Police chiefs have previously warned that about 4,400 officer and staff jobs could be cut over the next four years as a result of Scottish Government budget cuts.

Mr Mcarthur highlighted the case of ex-firearms officer Rhona Malone – who was awarded almost £1m for sexist victimisation – as he urged police bosses and the government to ensure legal claims are not adding pressure on to the already-squeezed budget.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Compensation payments are dealt with on a case by case basis with a view to securing best value for the public purse.”

Liam Mcarthur.