Police Scotland chief constable Phil Gormley to take ‘leave of absence’

Police Scotland chief constable Phil Gormley - Image credit: PA

Police Scotland chief constable Phil Gormley is to take a leave of absence, the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) has announced today.

No reason is given in the announcement, but it follows news that Gormley is being investigated by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) for allegations that if proved would amount to gross misconduct.

A statement from the Scottish Police Authority said: “The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) has today agreed to a request from Chief Constable Phil Gormley that he take a temporary leave of absence. This will be kept under review.

“The board has confirmed with DCC Designate Iain Livingstone that he will take temporary day to day leadership of Police Scotland until further notice.”

The SPA board has said it will review its decision to approve the leave of absence on a four weekly basis.

Responding to the news, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie MSP said: "It has taken too long, but Phil Gormley has made the right decision to temporarily stand aside and I commend him on that.  

“The investigation needs to be completed effectively and swiftly so that Police Scotland can move on.  

“There is a lot to fix in Police Scotland and we need effective leadership to fix it."