SNP exposing Scottish Prison Officers to unnecessary risk

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19 Jan 2019

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The Scottish Conservatives have accused the Scottish Government of exposing Scottish Prison officers to unnecessary risk after it confirmed that body-worn cameras are not routinely provided to officers in Scottish prisons.

Currently, body worn cameras are provided to every prison officer across the rest of the United Kingdom.

The cameras are considered to be a ‘visible deterrent’ to disorder and violence against prison officers. They also provide evidence when required and support for prison officers in disputes.

Confirmation that the cameras were not routinely provided to officers or staff in Scottish prisons was provided to the Scottish Conservatives in a Scottish parliamentary written answer.

The Scottish Conservatives have accused the SNP government of failing to adequately protect Scottish prison staff.

Liam Kerr, Scottish Conservative shadow justice secretary said:

“The SNP’s failure to provide body worn cameras for prison officers in Scotland when they are provided to all other officers in the rest of the United Kingdom, is deeply irresponsible.

“Our prison officers work in extremely risky environments, and are often called upon to resolve disputes, many of which can, and do, turn violent.

“The cameras are recognised to be a hindrance to that violence, and so, by their very nature, provide prison officers with extra protection.

“Scottish Prison officers should not be less safe than their counterparts elsewhere in the United Kingdom.

“The SNP must reconsider this approach and give Scottish prison officers the equipment they need to perform their jobs in safety.”

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