'Enough' consultation on police and fire control rooms

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill was speaking during a visit to Aberdeen

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill has insisted there has been enough consultation over plans to close police and fire control rooms in Aberdeen.

It came after a group of north east SNP MSPs criticised what they said was a lack of talks.

Aberdeen South and North Kincardine member Maureen Watt said she was disappointed that community groups were not advised of proposals in advance.

Mr MacAskill said dialogue was continuing on the matter.

Speaking in Aberdeen, he said: "It would be constitutionally wrong for the government to interfere in what are clearly operational matters.

"I would certainly encourage politicians who have concerns to engage both with the police and fire and rescue services and also with the boards.

"I do know from my discussions with these organisations myself they are intent and have been seeking to engage in dialogue and will continue to do that not only with politicians but also with the individuals affected."

Meanwhile city council leader Barney Crockett has written to the justice secretary calling for an urgent meeting over the control room proposals.

The Scottish Fire Board will discuss a proposal to reduce control rooms from eight to three on Thursday.

If the recommendations are approved, firefighters in the north east of Scotland would be controlled from Dundee.