THE chief constable of Police Scotland has revealed the new single force will not follow its English counterparts in allowing new recruits to join at superintendent level.

Police chief Stephen House confirmed the force would not adopt the controversial recruitment change which has been announced in England by Policing Minister Damian Green.

The view on the Winsor reforms was also backed by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill, who tweeted: "No to Winsor and no to direct entry. We have an excellent service as it is."

Mr Green revealed the move as part of an overhaul of the police system in England which will also include plans for a fast-tracking scheme.

Mr Green said: "The fast-track-to-inspector scheme will attract the brightest with the most potential to go on to become leaders.

"Direct entry at senior ranks will make sure that there is access to the best pool of talent."

The announcement has been criticised by the Police Federation and the Association of Chief Police Officers, who claim that all senior police officers should have spent time on the beat prior to promotion.