999 calls: New SNP leader Humza Yousaf 'open' to decentralisation
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New SNP leader Humza Yousaf has said he's "open" to the idea of making Police Scotland's 999 service less centralised.
Mr Yousaf, who is expected to be elected as First Minister today, has set out his immediate priorities, including the cost of living crisis.
Concerns over the impact of centralisation of 999 call-handling services were raised at the Inverness Courier's leadership debate earlier this month.
In reply to a question, Mr Yousaf indicated he would be "open" to the idea of call handlers in particular areas if it meant a better service but would not decentralise Police Scotland.
The issue was highlighted through an emotional question, submitted by retired Detective Chief Superintendent Charles Hepburn.
Five years ago, he had to watch his wife die because a centralised call-handler didn’t know where Orkney was, so could not dispatch an ambulance.
Asked about reversing the centralisation of emergency services, Humza Yousaf replied he would not decentralise Police Scotland, but added: "If it takes call handlers in particular areas and we think there'll be a better service there – we should absolutely be open to that."
Kate Forbes, the finance secretary and Skye, Badenoch and Lochaber MSP – who was runner-up in the leadership contest – acknowledged she had experienced frustration with centralised call handling.
She felt there was a strong argument for ensuring that call handling is decentralised.
Warnings and concerns have been expressed going as far back as November 2013 with Charles Kennedy, the late Liberal Democrat MP, being among the first to back the idea of a Highland Blue Light Hub.
