An explanation has been demanded of Police Scotland over the “baffling” decision to ditch the country’s voluntary civilian air patrol service.
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie made the call after accompanying air crew from the UK Civil Air Patrol, also known as Sky Watch, on a training flight at Perth Aerodrome.
Last month The Courier revealed Police Scotland would no longer call on the free services, which have previously played a vital role during a range of operations, including missing persons cases.
During a question and answer session, Sky Watch’s UK deputy chairman Peter McIntosh confirmed other services, such as the Fire and Rescue and Sepa, still use the volunteer group, which he said retains a “close relationship” with the RAF.
Mr Rennie said: “What makes this decision even more baffling is that emergency services in other parts of the country have maintained their links with Sky Watch. Why should Scotland miss out on this service?
“If there are compelling operational reasons for the decision to drop Sky Watch then Police Scotland should explain them. Sky Watch and everyone else have been left in the dark over why Police Scotland have chosen to reject this extra help.”
Mr McIntosh said many of those volunteering with the service have years of flying to both military and performance standard.
He added: “The strange situation is that there’s nothing stopping us looking for missing people at the request of relatives, for example.
“Sometimes we are there before the police have even been involved. We can carry on doing what we do, but less effectively.”
A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “The creation of a single service has enabled a review of all our operations.
“We fully recognise the valuable work many volunteer organisations perform in supporting the police service and recognise the previous commitment of those operating the Skywatch service, however it is important this is done in a safe and lawful way.
“The availability of the Police Scotland Air Support Unit, together with legal advice, has meant no further requirement for the voluntary service.”