Scotland’s chief constable has warned there are “tough choices” ahead for police finances, despite the improved budget allocation.
Financing for the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), inclusive Police Scotlandis set at £1.449 billion for the 2023/24 financial year.
Sir Iain Livingstone welcomes the improvement after the Scottish Government warned in its spending review earlier this year of a firm cash settlement of £1.246bn over the next five years.
Police chiefs warned of significant cuts to vital services and staff jobs if additional funds were not made available.
However, the chief of police warned that police decisions will not be easy with the settlement given to the authority.
Of the allocated funding, approximately £50.1 million will cover the SPA’s capital budget, which will focus on the police fleet and technology improvements.
In his budget announcement, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “We want people to live in safe communities, where we act early to reduce the likelihood of harm, support victims of crime and act quickly to bring the perpetrators of crime and violence to justice.
“As part of this budget, I intend to increase the resources available to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service by £13 million and to our wider justice system by £165 million.
“This will provide funds to tackle backlogs in court, strengthen legal aid and increase funding for police services by £80m.”
Commenting on the statement, Sir Iain said: “We know the financial strain on the public sector in the United Kingdom and Scotland and, indeed, on individuals and families.
Difficult choices lie ahead to deliver effective policing within the available revenue budget and our capital funding remains significantly below what is necessary to make progress in improving our technology, buildings and vehicles
“Tough choices lie ahead to deliver effective policing within the available revenue budget and our capital funding remains significantly below what is needed to make progress in improving our technology, facilities and vehicles.
“However, the 2023/24 budget is an improvement on the level indicated in the Scottish Government’s resource expenditure review and a welcome recognition of the significant transformation, savings and improved service delivered by Police Scotland.
“I am immensely grateful to our officers and staff for their hard work.
“We will continue to work with the Scottish Police Authority and the Scottish Government to serve our communities and keep people safe.”
Martyn Evans, chairman of the SPA, said: “There are clearly very significant restrictions on government spending and the police are not immune to that.
“Today’s budget announcement represents an improved position from May’s Resource Spending Review and we recognize that support.
“Over the years, the authority has consistently stressed the need for significant investment to maintain, transform and improve the police force. Today’s settlement is welcome, but it falls short of this ongoing demand.
“Difficult choices remain to ensure a balanced budgetary position next year. We are already working closely with the chief of police and the director of forensic services to determine what should be prioritized for the coming year.”