§ 47. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what provision he is making for the training of police officers; what this training comprises; and for how long it lasts.
§ Mr. RossThe Scottish Police College provides the bulk of central training for Scottish police officers.
The Junior Division of the College trains recruits in two stages: a 4-week elementary course at the start of the officer's service; and a 12 week second stage course after some 9 months in the service. Conversion courses of 6 weeks are also run for recruits who have had previous training and service in forces outside Scotland.
The Senior Division provides three courses:
A 6 months' course to prepare sergeants for the rank of inspector;A 3 months' course to improve fitness of students who have already attained the rank of inspector, or a higher rank, for the duties of chief inspector and above;A 12 months' course for 12 specially selected constables who normally receive automatic promotion to sergeant.The Motor Driving Division provides advanced training for force drivers and training for force instructors. These courses last 4 weeks and 6 weeks respectively.
Courses provided outside the Scottish Police College are: 438W
Initial courses for detective officers which are run in Glasgow or Edinburgh and last 8 weeks; and specialist courses for policewomen held every year alternately in Glasgow and in Edinburgh and lasting a fortnight.Places are also reserved for Scottish officers on the senior staff course at the English Police College.
Central training is complemented by courses run by individual police forces.