Whether it plans to review existing stop and search laws as part of a wider strategy in deterring weapons possession.

The use of stop and search is an operational matter for Police Scotland. Officers do an outstanding job to keep communities safe, as shown by the decrease in recorded crime of almost half since 1991 and by the significant progress that has been made in reducing violent crime over the long term.Police Scotland already have the appropriate and adequate powers to stop and search. The power to stop and search is one of the most visible and impactful tools available to the police, but it is also a power that must be exercised with care, transparency, and the appropriate justification.Any form of violence is unacceptable, which is why we are investing record funding of more than £1.7 billion in policing in 2026-27. In addition, the Scottish Government continues to focus on a range of actions to tackle violence including prevention, early intervention, community engagement and robust enforcement through the justice system.A review of the current code was carried out in 2025 and a public consultation on the revised Code ran from 10 February to 5 May 2026 delivering on this legal obligation. It aims to reflect developments in law, policing practice, and society, while strengthening guidance on human rights, equality, accountability, and the treatment of children and vulnerable people.