UNIFORMED police officers in Scotland will not march at Glasgow’s Pride on Saturday, following a High Court ruling in England that reignited debate over police impartiality and LGBT+ inclusion.
The decision comes after the High Court ruled that Northumbria Police breached its duty of neutrality by allowing officers to participate in a Pride event in uniform.
In response, Police Scotland has confirmed that no officers will take part in the Glasgow Pride march in uniform, a reversal from previous years where police presence was seen as a symbol of support and inclusivity.
Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs stated: “We will continue to engage closely with event organisers, although no officers will participate in forthcoming events in uniform.”
He added: “We continue to review the UK High Court judgment on Northumbria Police’s participation in Newcastle Pride 2024 and its implications.
“We will ensure Police Scotland’s response to events continues to be in line with our values and code of ethics, providing a professional and impartial service which upholds the human rights of all.”
In 2023, dozens of officers were paid to take part in Pride events, with many visibly supporting LGBT+ communities by marching with flags and signing inclusive banners.
Chief Superintendent Lynn Ratcliff was among those who supported the initiative, saying she wanted her division to be the “most inclusive area in Police Scotland".
However, after this week’s legal ruling, even planned lower-level engagement like community stalls has been cancelled.
The Scottish Police Federation, which represents frontline officers, supported the decision while reaffirming its values.
General Secretary David Kennedy said: “We proudly support the principles and values of the Pride movement ... but participating in any march while on duty, including Pride, can give rise to questions around neutrality.”
He added: “Officers who wish to take part in Pride events in their own time should be supported and encouraged to do so.”
Critics argue that the move reflects growing political pressure on public institutions to distance themselves from progressive causes.
According to Mail Online reports, Kath Murray, of gender-critical think tank Murray Blackburn Mackenzie, described police participation in past Pride events as “institutional capture.”
For many LGBT+ advocates, the absence of uniformed officers marks a significant setback in the effort to build trust, safety and equality in policing.
ScottishTrans has been contacted for comment.
