Police Scotland Chief Constable to step down
Sir Stephen (right) announced his decision at the Scottish Police Authority public board meeting in Stirling today, Sir Stephen said after nearly 35 years as a serving officer, the time was now right for the search for his successor to begin, whilst taking the opportunity to pay tribute to police officers and staff.
Chief Constable Sir Stephen House said: “As the leader of a national organisation that provides a vital public service 24 hours every day of the year, there can never be a convenient time to move on, but after nearly 35 years as a police officer and the last nine as a Chief Constable in Scotland, I believe the time is right for me to take up a new challenge and thereby allow the process to recruit my successor to begin.
“Much has been achieved since the creation of Police Scotland and I firmly believe that Scotland is better served for it. Not only in managing the changes brought about by reform and substantial financial cuts, but most importantly in the public service we provide.
“I want to take this opportunity to recognise the contribution made to policing in Scotland by Vic Emery and former Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Kenny MacAskill, their support and commitment has been of great value.
“From building confidence in victims coming forward to report crimes, to ending the postcode provision of specialist services, to improving our ability to respond to major incidents and events - I am proud of the hard work and commitment to the public, police officers and staff deliver each and every day.
“I would like to pay my personal tribute to the unstinting work they do in serving the people and communities of Scotland. It is their work that keeps people safe across Scotland and it is their work I would like recognised.”
At the board meeting, Sir Stephen acknowledged the challenges the organisation had faced and the strengths on which the service would continue to build.
He added: “Policing has always faced many challenges and will continue to do so. There remains much to do but knowing – as I do - the quality of our officers and staff, I am confident that the challenges will be met. The dedication and commitment of our people is outstanding and will serve Scotland well in the future under a new Chief Constable.
“I am immensely proud to have been the first Chief Constable of Police Scotland and to lead the men and women in it. I want to use this opportunity to pay public tribute to the men and women of Police Scotland who all deserve the recognition of the public. But the time has come to move on and take up new opportunities.
“I would like to thank the Chair in particular, as this is his last public board meeting, and the Members for their contribution during Police Scotland’s first years and I wish you well in continuing to work together to deliver a policing service that Scotland can be proud of.“
