Our communities are best defence against terrorism, says Matheson

PAUL WARD

Manchester and London, Counter Terrorism Awareness Week is focusing on safety and security in busy public spaces.

The activity is not in response to any specific threat but rather to keep people informed, officers said.

Police officers are to brief businesses, take questions and offer reassurance to the public over counter-terrorism in Scotland.

Mr Matheson said people have understandable concerns about terrorism after recent attacks but urged them to go about “business as usual”.

He said: “Police Scotland rightfully reviewed security arrangements of major events following the recent incidents. But security is a responsibility we all share and we need to continue to work together, and benefit from our strong community links, in keeping each other safe.

“Initiatives like Counter Terrorism Awareness Week are important, now more than ever. As part of the week, Police Scotland and their partners will be providing practical advice and taking forward a wide range of engagements to inform and reassure the public.”

Senior officers and specialist counter-terrorism security advisers started the week with briefings at shopping centres in Aberdeen and East Kilbride.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson said: “The purpose of this initiative is not to alarm the public but to provide them with all the necessary information they require to identify suspicious activity and, more importantly, to keep themselves safe and secure.

“Activities throughout the week are aimed at offering reassurance to the public by demonstrating the range of capabilities at our disposal to both deter, and respond to, terrorism-related incidents.”