The Chair of the Scottish Police Authority, Martyn Evans, has responded to the Scottish Government's 2023-24 budget statement today, Thursday 15 December 2022:

When the Scottish Government published its Resource Spending Review in May, setting out a flat cash revenue budget position for policing, we were clear that the implications would be extremely serious and we have worked hard to make the case for policing and forensic services.

There are clearly very considerable constraints on public spending and policing is not immune to those. Today’s budget announcement represents an improved position from May’s Resource Spending Review and we acknowledge that support.

Over the years, the Authority has consistently highlighted the need for significant investment to maintain, transform and improve policing. Today’s settlement is welcome, but it does not meet this ongoing requirement. Difficult choices remain to ensure a balanced budget position next year. We are already working closely with the Chief Constable and the Director of Forensic Services to consider what will need to be prioritised for the year ahead.

For more information on the Scottish Government's Budget visit: Scottish Budget 2023-24 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) 

Article initially published 15 December 2022.