Former NSPCC chief executive named Scottish Police Authority chair

A former chief executive of children’s charity NSPCC has been named as the new chair of the Scottish Police Authority.

Andrew Flanagan, who was also chief executive of media company SMG – now STV – for a decade through to 2006, will take up post on Monday of next week.

One of his first tasks will be to undertake a “rapid” review of police governance, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson told MSPs.

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The appointment comes after Vic Emery, who has been the face of the SPA since its inception, announced his decision to stand down as chair of the police scrutiny body.

"While I recognise the challenges we face, I believe that there is much to build on in Scottish policing - not least the excellent work undertaken every day by the thousands of dedicated officers and staff,” said Flanagan.

“I look forward to working with them - and everyone with an interest in this crucially important public service - to ensure policing delivers for local communities."

Flanagan, whose appointment is for four years, will be charged with leading a review of police governance – announced by the First Minister earlier this week – supported by a reference group.

The will focus on ensuring local interests are effectively represented in national scrutiny processes, the SPA has the “ appropriate structures and skills” to undertake scrutiny, as well as making sure government and parliament have the data needed to hold the single force to account.

Matheson said: “Recent incidents have knocked confidence in policing and it is vital we address that. I have therefore asked him to ensure the community focus is at the heart of everything the SPA and Police Scotland do, and to undertake a rapid review of governance.

“It will ensure that policing commands its resources effectively to meet community needs, and commands the confidence of communities in how it carried out those duties.

“This work will shape policing and lay the foundations for the years ahead, against a backdrop of continuing financial pressures.”