Scottish government to ‘re-examine’ railway policing merger amid calls for it to be abandoned

The decision comes following recent advice from Police Scotland around the practicalities of a number of issues and timing of implementation, particularly relating to ICT, which have emerged as part of the re-planning exercise commissioned by Scottish ministers.

Mr Yousaf said that the Scottish government remained committed to the full integration of railway policing into Police Scotland, as legislated for by the Scottish Parliament and will keep this under review.

However, he added there was a need to identify interim arrangements that could give effect more quickly to the devolution of railway policing, as recommended by the Smith Commission.

The Scottish government will bring together Police Scotland, the Scottish Police Authority, the British Transport Police and other partners to re-examine the available options.

Mr Yousaf said: “Throughout this process we have been committed to listening to officers and staff. As part of that on-going approach I have decided that we will re-examine all options for the devolution of railway policing, with clear governance structures that ensure accountability to the Scottish Parliament.

“The absolute priority for all those involved is the safety and security of officers, staff and those who use Scotland’s railways.

“I intend to update Parliament following summer recess. In the meantime I want to pay tribute to the on-going commitment of officers and staff of both police services, who I look forward to engaging with on this matter in the very near future.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP said it was time to scrap the merger instead of “muddling through”.

Mr McArthur said: “The Scottish government repeatedly refused requests to consult on alternative options, insisting they knew best and that it would be a waste of time. As a result, this merger has gone horribly wrong from day one.

“Iain Livingstone has had to press pause once before when he told the SNP government their plans were poised to compromise public safety. It would appear the police have now issued fresh warnings.

“This politically-motivated merger is in turmoil, leaving BTP officers and staff in limbo. The Scottish government’s substandard planning and lack of business case has been thoroughly exposed.

“It is time ministers stopped muddling through and instead halted the merger altogether.”