Jackie Baillie has demanded that the Scottish Government ensures police numbers are maintained after outgoing Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone has admitted savings across the service are necessary.

The Dumbarton constituency MSP received a letter which has been issued to all Local Police Commanders laying bare the severity of the situation.

Police Scotland presented their budget to the Scottish Police Authority last week and the letter outlines that it does not allow the workforce levels to be maintained and a pay award made for the coming year.

The Chief Constable highlights that it is not possible for the levels of staffing currently available to continue to provide the existing service.

The letter points to ‘co-location’ with partners which could lead to the loss of more police offices.

Jackie Baillie said: “This letter makes for worrying reading at a time when we have seen violence escalate in West Dunbartonshire communities due to people from outwith the area intent on causing trouble.

“The SNP Government has presided over a reduction in frontline police numbers and know that it is impossible to maintain the level of service with less people on the frontline.

“People in West Dunbartonshire and Argyll & Bute want to be reassured of their safety with visible, accessible officers. With the recent incidents in Brucehill and Bonhill, this is a real concern.

“The SNP Government needs to provide a robust response to this scathing letter and must address the ongoing problems surrounding police numbers. The number of officers has to be safeguarded. Otherwise the safety of communities across Dumbarton, the Vale of Leven, Helensburgh and Lomond as well as those across Scotland are in jeopardy.”