A Perth priest has been suspended from his duties.
Father Tom Shields has been ordered to stand down while police investigate a serious accusation made against him.
According to a report in the Sunday Mail, it centres around an allegation of historical abuse.
The Catholic Church alerted police after a complaint was made about Shields, who is the priest at St John the Baptist church in Perth.
The church said that its own inquiry had found no evidence of criminal behaviour, but contacted police in line with national procedures.
A spokesman for the Diocese of Dunkeld confirmed Mr Shields remained suspended while the inquiry was ongoing.
He said: “Following a historical allegation against Father Tom Shields, he has been temporarily removed from his parish at St John’s, Perth and from his diocesan duties while safeguarding protocols are followed.
“The complaint has been referred to the police and the situation is being reviewed.”
Mr Shields, who is also chaplain responsible for two primary schools, could not be contacted for comment.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Inquiries were carried out following the receipt of information. No complaint has been received.
“Any victim of abuse can come forward in confidence, knowing that we will listen and investigate thoroughly.”
Last year, the Bishop of Dunkeld, Stephen Robson, appointed Mr Shields to lead the church’s youth formation programme and help with religious education in schools.
Just days ago, the bishop said that the Church needed to be transparent about abuse issues.
“Learning from our shortcomings, omissions and ineffectiveness will be a painful exercise for the Church.
“But learn we must. We must be transparent and accountable for our mistakes and, yes, incompetence in the past.”
Official abuse and safeguarding protocols for the church include contacting the police and social work when a child or young person is at risk of immediate harm.