POLICE Scotland’s Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone QPM will leave office today Thursday August 10 with Deputy Chief Constable Designate Fiona Taylor QPM taking on the responsibilities of Chief Constable in the interim period.

The three senior officers met with Justice Secretary Angela Constance and Scottish Police Authority Chair Martyn Evans at Police Scotland Headquarters, Tulliallan, last week.

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Sir Iain said: “An effective handover which maintains stability in Police Scotland was a key priority in my retirement plans and I will continue to work with Fiona and Jo to that end.”

DCC Designate Taylor said: “My focus will be on ensuring effective policing is maintained for the communities of Scotland and I will support the effective handover from Sir Iain to Chief Constable Farrell.”

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Ms Farrell, will take up post on 9 October.

She said: “I thank Sir Iain and Fiona for their work to ensure a smooth transition when I take command of Police Scotland.”

The leadership arrangements were agreed by the Scottish Police Authority.

Chair Martyn Evans said: “An effective and stable handover during this leadership transition is a priority and I am grateful to Sir Iain and Jo Farrell for their commitment and support.”

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “I’m pleased to meet Jo Farrell ahead of her taking up post as Chief Constable and looking forward to working with her in the years to come.”