Bill Kidd, SNP MSP for the Glasgow region, has welcomed the confirmation that 100 new police officers are to be recruited by Strathclyde Police, as figures showed that the SNP Government has surpassed its manifesto commitment to increase police numbers by 1000.

There are now 17,371 police officers in Scotland—1,137 more than when Labour left office. Strathclyde, the territorial police force which covers Glasgow, has already recruited an additional 560 officers since 2007.

Despite cuts by the UK Government to the Scottish budget, the SNP has ensured that police numbers are protected.

Welcoming the more police for Glasgow, Mr Kidd said: "The recruitment of 100 new officers in the Strathclyde region is very welcome and will undoubtedly benefit the communities across Glasgow.

"This latest intake will ensure that the SNP’s commitment to police numbers continues to be met, despite unprecedented cuts to Scotland’s overall budget by the UK Government.

"Police boards and Chief Constables are re-opening recruitment as a result of their funding deal from the SNP.

"The SNP will not allow the police service in Scotland to be slashed by Tory cuts.

"With record numbers of police officers now on our streets, the SNP remains committed to upholding police services and making Scotland safer."