I attended the first Grampian Joint Police Board meeting of the new session today. Full membership of the board can be found here:

http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/LocalAgencies/gjpb/lag_membership.asp

 The Board at present consists of 15 councillors appointed from the membership of the 3 councils: 6 members appointed by Aberdeen City Council, 6 members appointed by Aberdeenshire Council and 3 members appointed by Moray Council.

On reading over the history of policing in the area I thought I would highlight just some of the key changes over the centuries:

In 1179 – confirmation of Aberdeen Burgh Status granted by William the Lion. Burgh laws allowed for three “heid courtis” to be presided over by twelve burgesses, an elected Provost and baillies, to ‘guard and maintain the burgh’s laws and customs’.

1795 – Aberdeen Police Act – 13 commissioners of police elected.

1868 – Improved working hours introduced, shift system and military ‘drill’. New style helmets introduced on City of London style; uniforms enhanced.

1918-19 – Metropolitan Police Officers go on strike to protest about poor pay and conditions. Rent-free housing introduced; 8 hour working day. Police Act banned officers from joining a union. Police Federation set up to represent officers.

1949 – SNECC (Scottish North East Counties’ Constabulary) set up, incorporating old forces of Aberdeenshire, Kincardineshire, Banffshire, Morayshire and Nairnshire.

1975 – SNECC and Aberdeen City Police forces amalgamate to create new Grampian Police Force.

2012 – Interesting times as we move towards a single police force. Although it is “business as usual” for the force, how local authorities are going to be involved in scrutiny through the Scottish Police Authority after 31 March 2013 is as yet unclear.