The number of police officers has reached a record high, according to official figures.
As of the end of September, Scotland has the equivalent of 17,454 full-time officers, 81 more than in June and 1,220 more than in March 2007; maintaining the SNP's pledge on officer numbers.
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said the number of officers may fluctuate from time to time but that the move to a single police force would help "maintain the visible police presence".
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