A SCOTTISH Conservative plan to boost police numbers by fast-tracking army veterans into the force has been branded “dangerously simplistic” by the police themselves.
The rebuff by the union representing rank and file officers followed a Tory call for a trial of the scheme in military communities.
MSP Maurice Corry, his party’s veterans spokesman, said those leaving the armed forces could initially become special constables then fast-tracked for promotion.
Mr Corry, who originally examined the possibility as a councillor in Helensburgh, said the idea had previously been "warmly received by both veterans and police".
However the Scottish Police Federation rubbished the plan, saying policing and military work were “fundamentally different”.
SPF general secretary Calum Steele said: “It is undoubtedly true that many former members of the armed forces have made a successful transition and remarkable contribution to policing over the years, and will no doubt continue to do so into the future.
“Policing and military roles are fundamentally different for very good reason.
“Whilst the SPF believes veterans should be offered every support to reintegrate into civilian life, it is dangerously simplistic to assume that life in armed forces somehow makes a person more suited to the police service than anyone else.”
The number of special constables, who act in a voluntary and part-time role to assist the police, has fallen from 1387 to 610 in the last five years.
Mr Corry said his proposal would boost the number of 'specials' and help people leaving the armed forces find a new career.
He said: “These people will be fit, active and value the idea of uniformity and being involved to help the public good, and that’s something we should make use of.
“They have families and friends in the area they’ve served, and want a reason to remain.
“By being involved in the police it would retain some of the familiarity of the life they’ve had over the past number of years, while also acting as a bridge to whatever career path they subsequently take.
“I believe a trial could be launched in any area where there’s a strong military veteran presence, from Helensburgh to Moray.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The recruitment of police constables is a matter for Police Scotland, and overall officer numbers remain at historically high levels.
“Armed forces veterans have a range of transferable skills that are welcomed by employers in Scotland and we remain committed to ensuring that all veterans living in Scotland are able to access the best possible support in their lives going forward, particularly when it comes to employment opportunities.”
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