THE use of Tasers by police to control a man who threatened them with a sword during a seven-hour stand off was proportionate, a review has found.

An investigation by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner found that officers were justified in using the devices against the 34-year-old.

Police Scotland were called to the incident in Paisley, Renfrewshire, on June 6, in which the man had assaulted a woman and held her hostage in a house.

Officers persuaded him to release her but he threatened to stab officers with the sword if they tried to enter the house. Police armed with Tasers contained the man until police negotiators got to the scene.

He was taken to hospital for routine checks and found to have suffered no after-effects of the use of the Tasers other than minor bruising. He was subsequently convicted of assault and breach of the peace.

The commissioner, Professor John McNeill, said: "Following my investigation, I am satisfied that the use of the Tasers was proportionate and justified."