MORE than 100 MSPs have had office security checks in the last three years, resulting in thousands of pounds in safety upgrades.
Holyrood officials confirmed today that 106 politicians had Police Scotland security surveys carried out in that time, with the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body (SPCB) approving modification costs in local offices worth around £82,500.
Now, in light of the fatal stabbing of MP Sir David Amess, the body's head of security is reminding MSPs they are still eligible for such upgrades, should the force recommend it.
Police Scotland have since stressed there is no "specific threat" north of the border.
In a letter published today, the head of security wrote wrote: “The SPCB will fund security upgrades at your constituency or regional office, based on recommendations from Police Scotland.
"Please contact me if you need Police Scotland to visit your office premises and undertake a survey and I will make arrangements for this to happen.”
Lone worker devices were also implemented in offices for all MSPs and their staff, which were introdced folloing the death of Jo Cox MP.
READ MORE: MSPs reminded of 7 key security measures in light of MP's fatal stabbing
The reminder is part of a letter addressed to all MSPs which highlighted key security measures in light of MP Sir David Amess’ death during a meeting with his constituents.
Commenting on the "developing situation", the Scottish Parliament said it was dedicated to keeping their staff safe.
A spokesperson said: “The issue of Members safety is taken extremely seriously, and the Parliament looks regularly at the threats that, regrettably, elected representatives face on a day-to-day basis.
“Following the death of Jo Cox in 2016 the Parliament’s corporate body funded security enhancements to a number of MSPs office based on Police Scotland advice."
Today, Police Scotland have said they are working "closely" with colleagues down south, but stressed there is "no specific threat to Scotland".
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson said: “Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends and community of Sir David Amess MP.
"While there is no specific threat to Scotland, we are working closely with UK policing colleagues to ensure all MSPs and MPs are aware of relevant personal safety advice.
"We have well established relationships with elected representatives and will discuss individual security arrangements further with them.”
Later, Holyrood’s Presiding Officer described the killing of MP Sir David Amess as “an attack on our democracy” and assured MSPs that the parliament will offer them additional security.
Alison Johnstone has written to MSPs in the wake of the “deeply devastating” stabbing of the Conservative MP as he met with constituents in an Essex church.
She pledged that the Scottish Parliament would provide its elected members with any advice and support required and revealed she has spoken to Police Scotland, with the force indicating it will contact MSPs “as a matter of urgency” to discuss security arrangements.
It followed an announcement from the parliament’s corporate body that it would fund any security upgrades at MSPs constituency offices based on police recommendations.
Safety advice for holding surgeries was also reiterated, including sitting behind a table “so this can act as a barrier if necessary” and always letting relatives or colleagues know where they are.
In her letter to members, Ms Johnson wrote: “I know it will have been with a sense of shock and sadness that we learned the news about the death of Sir David Amess MP yesterday.
“Whilst all our thoughts are with Sir David’s family, friends and colleagues, it is understandable that at a time like this we reflect on our own work and the challenges we face.
“Representing our constituents is one of the greatest privileges of being a Member of the Scottish Parliament, but it is one that, sadly, can bring with it threats and fears for the safety of ourselves, our staff and families.”
She added: “As we reflect on the tragic events of the past 24 hours, what is clear to me is the dedication and commitment of all Members of the Scottish Parliament.
“What happened yesterday was an attack on our democracy, but I know we all remain committed to representing the people we serve as best we can.
“And the Parliament will provide the support and advice you need to do that safely.
“I will be in touch with Party leaders and business managers to discuss the Scottish Parliament’s addressing of this deeply devastating event as the first item of business on our return.”
It comes as the Metropolitan Police confirmed the fatal stabbing has been declared a terrorist incident.
In a statement, the Met said Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, had formally declared the incident as terrorism.
The investigation is being led by counter-terrorism officers.
The early investigation has revealed “a potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism”, the force said.
A 25-year-old man arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder is in custody at an Essex police station.
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