West Dunbartonshire Council will continue to carry out risk assessments on the safety of local politicians following the killing of MP Sir David Amess.
Police Scotland has confirmed that while there is no specific threat to Scotland, they are liaising with UK colleagues and the local authority is reviewing its approach to councillor safety in light of any further advice.
West Dunbartonshire Council has also confirmed that every elected member is issued with safety guidance at the beginning of each term.
It comes after the MP for Southend West was stabbed at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, in Essex, last Friday. He died later that afternoon.
A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, and police are treating it as a terrorist incident.
Sir David was there for one of his regular Friday meetings with his constituents. Just 15 minutes before the attack, the 69-year-old was standing on the church steps, chatting and laughing with locals.
Following the attack, concerns have been raised about the safety of politicians across the country, in Glasgow and the West of Scotland.
West Dunbartonshire Council has confirmed that steps have always been taken to ensure the safety of its elected members.
A spokesperson said: “At the start of every term of office, all elected members are issued with safety guidance by Police Scotland.
“This guidance incorporates members surgeries and is discussed as an integral part of new members’ induction training so everyone is aware.
“The council has also carried out risk assessments on specific activities such as Members’ attendance at surgeries based on the Police guidance and has circulated this to all elected members. Police Scotland has confirmed there is no specific threat to Scotland, and is liaising with UK colleagues.
“Risk assessments will be reviewed in light of any further advice which Police Scotland issue on the safety of local politicians.”
