Figures from the country's eight existing forces show they are paying out just less than £90,000 per month – a payment the already cash-strapped Police Scotland will inherit come April 1.

The money is paid to cover salaries for officers and civilian workers on suspension, gardening or extended leave while disciplinary procedures or criminal investigations into their conduct are carried out.

The data, obtained under Freedom of Information laws, shows officers and staff members are being paid to sit at home while others carry out their duties.