NCJ Number
77173
Date Published
1980
Length
52 pages
Annotation
This 1979 annual report of Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland shows the rise in crime and points to the need for increased use of the special constabulary who can provide contact between the police and the public.
Abstract
According to the report, the year ended with the Scottish police service standing at its best ever strength of 13,214. There has been a gain of 815 officers and only 60 vacancies have remained. This improvement in manpower is attributed to better pay scales and a general economic uncertainty which has resulted in an unprecedented number (almost 9,000) applying to join the service. The results of the Edmund-Davies Committee of Inquiry concerning police staff associations are given. The report notes an increase in the number of civilian employees who enable the release of the police for tasks requiring the powers of a police officer. They also provide the valuable link between the police and the public by fostering a general awareness of the problems confronting the police. A rise in the number of crimes made known to the police is discussed. For example, crimes against the person represent about 1 in 30 of all reported crimes and the total of 9,630 is indicative of the steady rise over the past few years. The report also examines the problem of drug abuse and states that there is a growing tendency for still younger people to become involved. The importance of road safety research and training programs is also discussed; accidents continue to increase with more children being killed. The report also notes the role of the Scottish Police College as the focus of national police training and the need for good management and adequate welfare and sporting facilities. Awards given during the year are listed. Statistical data are provided. (Author abstract modified)