Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch has expressed concern that Police Firearms Policy now allows Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) officers to routinely carry firearms open on their person when there is no imminent threat.

Dave said, “I understand Sir Stephen House arguing that ARV officers have to take time to arm if there is an incident. However the Police response which is that ARV officers now patrol armed when there is no immediate threat is going too far.

He went on, “Violent crime in Scotland is at a near all time low, not least because, unlike elsewhere in the UK,  the Scottish Government has maintained Police numbers in Scotland. Further, crime in the Highlands and Islands is at such a low level it is one of the big reasons why people choose to come and live and work here.

Something clearly undermined if innocent shoppers and street goers see officers carrying firearms as if there is an incident about to happen. It is not beyond the wit of man to find a middle way between Sir Stephen’s concern for his officers safety and the wider peace of mind of Highland folk.