Anti-Social Behaviour in Portobello

This morning I met with Police Scotland to ask urgent questions following the awful incident in Portobello over the weekend.

There are two issues: serious violent disorder by a very small minority; and anti-social behaviour and disruption at the beach on warm evenings.

Both require a concerted police response. While I have huge respect for the individual officers doing difficult jobs, it is absolutely clear that there is a lack of resources across Edinburgh and in Portobello.

I will be taking this up directly with Edinburgh's Chief Superintendent, and the Justice Secretary, immediately. We simply cannot accept such scenes in our community: action must be taken. I will keep you updated over the coming days.

Anyone who has any information related to criminality should contact the police. But please do contact me with your views and experiences, and I will make sure your voice is heard.

I have sent the following letter to Angela Constance MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs: