New commissioner vows to ‘strengthen’ public confidence in policing

The new head of the police watchdog has vowed to “strengthen and reinforce public confidence” in Police Scotland as she prepares to take up the role.

Laura Paton has been appointed as the next Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc).

Pirc, an arm of the Scottish Government, is responsible for investigating complaints from the public against Police Scotland.

It also investigates operations north of the border of the National Crime Agency, British Transport Police, Civil Nuclear Constabulary, Ministry of Defence Police, and HM Revenue and Customs.

Ms Paton will begin her five-year role on April 1, replacing Michelle Macleod, who will retire on February 14 after nearly six years in the position.

An acting commissioner will be appointed in the interim period.

Ms Paton has served as HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution in Scotland since 2019.

That role involves inspecting the services of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, how it manages criminal allegations against the police, and the quality of the service provided to victims and witnesses.

She has a background in human rights law, with a focus on the rights of children, young people and prisoners.

Ms Paton has also been involved in the independent inspection of policing and places of detention, including prisons and police custody.

She said: “I am delighted to be taking up this appointment. The work of my predecessor, Michelle Macleod CBE, has provided a robust foundation in holding the police to account and improving standards in policing.

“I look forward to further developing and expanding the organisation’s role over the coming years to strengthen and reinforce public confidence in policing in Scotland.”

Justice Secretary Angela Constance welcomed the appointment.

She said: “The Pirc plays a vital role in safeguarding the trust the public have in their police service.

“I am sure the extensive knowledge and experience of the justice system that Laura Paton brings to the role will build on the excellent work undertaken by Michelle Macleod CBE.

“I look forward to working with Ms Paton, as she drives the organisation forward and ensures it delivers on the new responsibilities contained within the recently passed Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) (Scotland) Bill.

“I would also like to commend Ms Macleod for her dedicated service and wish her well for the future.”