Watchdog to inspect British Transport Police while transfer considered
A police watchdog will inspect British Transport Police (BTP) ahead of a proposed transfer of its Scottish operation to Police Scotland.
A police watchdog will inspect British Transport Police (BTP) ahead of a proposed transfer of its Scottish operation to Police Scotland.
Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) will conduct the joint inspection with HMIC which examines forces in England and Wales.
Officers, who will begin inspection fieldwork in February, will analyse BTP's efficiency, legitimacy and leadership of the service. They will also examine strategic issues caused by the proposed transfer.
BTP's inspection was commissioned by the parliamentary secretary of state at the Department for Transport (DfT) under the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003.
A single joint report will be produced by inspectors following the examination which will be submitted to the DfT.
Derek Penman, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, said: In addition to assessing the performance of British Transport Police in Scotland, it is my intention to use this joint inspection to identify any strategic issues arising from the proposed transfer of its Scottish operations to Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority under the Railway Policing (Scotland) Bill.
Our report and any recommendations or findings could inform future discussions about the implementation of this transfer.''