Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 10 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what action it and Police Scotland have taken to protect police officers from violence.
I recognise the dedication and bravery of our Police Officers, who place themselves in harms way to protect the people and communities they serve, and it is simply not acceptable that our police officers are attacked or abused while going about their daily duty. Courts have extensive powers to deal robustly with those who carry out such appalling behaviour towards police officers and staff.
While provision of training and equipment are matters for the Chief Constable, I am clear that police officers and staff should be provided with the correct tools for the job. I am also aware that our officers receive a wide range of training, including officer safety training and the use of Personal Protective Equipment. Our record £1.7 billion investment in policing in 2026-27 is helping equip officers with modern tools like body worn video, ensuring they have the right resources to keep themselves and our communities safe.