During First Minister Questions, Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser quizzed Alex Salmond on the reliability of Police Scotland statistics.
Claims about a target culture at Police Scotland, officers covering for redundant civilian staff and concerns about police figures have been dismissed by the First Minister.
Chamber exchange included below;
Murdo Fraser MSP said:
"This week, senior police officers have spoken out against a target culture against the centralised Police Scotland.
"What assurance can he give us that techniques such as gaming are not being used to present a picture of police activity and recorded crime which is less than accurate."
Alex Salmond MSP said:
"The Scottish Crime Recording Standard, introduced in 2004, provides a victim-orientated approach that ensures the uniformity in crime reporting practices throughout Scotland.
"Compliance with the standard is reviewed by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland.
"That is why we are working closely with SPA and Police Scotland to ensure that published Police Scotland management information is always robust."
"Most people would regard the record number of police officers on the streets and in communities and a 39-year record low in crime as a substantial achievement."
Commenting outside the Chamber Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The SNP’s claim that crime is at a 39 year low does not stack up when the Scottish Crime Recording Standard (SCRS) was only introduced throughout all Scottish Police Forces on 1st April 2004. Before then, crime and offences were recorded in a very different way, so comparing crime rates before and after 2004 is not an accurate comparison.
“The simple fact, confirmed yesterday by Stephen House, is that more officers are being removed from the frontline to do back of house duties, thanks to SNP cuts. Furthermore, the removal of public counters throughout Scotland will do little to help in the recording and reporting of crime. The Scottish Government’s centralised approach is not working.”