DEPUTY Chief Constable Fiona Taylor QPM says that she is determined to address sexism, misogyny and violence against women, within Police Scotland.

And she revealed that the force has recently invested in its vetting team and that all serving officers and staff members will be the subject of checks on national databases.

This is in line with work being taken forward by the Metropolitan Police in the wake of a number of incidents.

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Additional checks will be made into the background of new recruits before they are sworn into office.

Ms Taylor said: “Officers and staff work day in, day out, right across Scotland to protect the vulnerable and keep people safe.

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“We are resolute in our determination to address sexism, misogyny and violence against women, within our organisation and across society.

“Police Scotland has already strengthened vetting measures, introducing an additional check for new recruits just before they are sworn into office and we will commence a rolling programme to review vetting decisions this year.

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“We have recently invested in our vetting team and take relevant action where concerns emerge.

“To further enhance our ability to safeguard our values and standards, all officers and staff will be checked against national systems, in line with work being taken forward in England and Wales.

 “It is right policing is held to high standards. We will always support officers and staff acting with our values and standards at heart.

“Those who reject what we stand for don’t belong in Police Scotland.”