Story perspectives

Scottish Police Federation Calls for Armed Officers Amid Rising Violence

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

David Kennedy, general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, said Scotland should arm police, proposing a New Zealand–style system with firearms training for all officers and guns in police cars.
He also stressed rising violence against officers and the psychological toll, calling policing a crisis due to inadequate protective equipment and low officer numbers.
Scottish Conservative spokesperson Sharon Dowey supported the proposal, noting the growing knife crime issue in Scotland.

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Story summary

David Kennedy, general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, said Scotland should arm police, proposing a New Zealand–style system with firearms training for all officers and guns in police cars.
He also stressed rising violence against officers and the psychological toll, calling policing a crisis due to inadequate protective equipment and low officer numbers.
Scottish Conservative spokesperson Sharon Dowey supported the proposal, noting the growing knife crime issue in Scotland.