How is the SNP supporting police & fire services?

Investment in Policing and Justice

Recorded crime in Scotland is less than half of what it was in 1991 with Scotland continuing to have more police officers per capita than England and Wales, and police officers in Scotland consistently the best paid in the UK.

To continue this success the SNP government is investing almost £4.6 billion in the justice system in 2026–27 which includes £1.7 billion for Police Scotland.

Support for Fire and Rescue Services

The SNP is committed to supporting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), which continues to have a higher number of firefighters per head than the rest of the UK.

In the 2026–27 Scottish Budget, the SFRS receives £436 million, including a £353.6 million resource budget.

Challenges created by the Westminster Labour government

However, Scotland’s public services face £400 million in additional costs due to the Westminster Labour government’s increase in employer National Insurance contributions.

The SNP has repeatedly called on the UK Government to fully fund these additional costs to prevent pressure on frontline services.