A pilot scheme for GPS tracking of individuals on bail, including those suspected of domestic abuse, is set to launch in parts of central Scotland next year, announced First Minister John Swinney. The initiative will initially cover the sheriffdoms of Tayside, Fife, and Central.
The announcement came during a Scottish Parliament debate focused on strategies to combat violence against women. Swinney confirmed that regulations for the pilot, which will be overseen by Sheriff Principal Gillian Anne Wade KC, are expected to be laid before parliament prior to the October recess, with the aim of commencing the rollout in 2027.
Swinney stated that the pilot would operate under "robust local arrangements" to ensure public safety. The government has faced criticism regarding the slow implementation of GPS tracking technology in Scotland, which is used less extensively than in some other countries.
This GPS tracking initiative was included in the latest program for government. The government also plans to make a £2 million fund permanent, which provides support for women and children escaping abusive partners. Additionally, multi-year funding is pledged for charities offering crisis support to women and girls, and plans are in place to recognize misogyny as a distinct form of prejudice and abuse. A public health campaign targeting toxic male behavior is also planned.
However, the proposals have drawn criticism. Sean Hunter, whose sister Stacy was murdered by her estranged husband while he was on bail for domestic abuse charges, stated that the current proposals are "not anywhere near good enough" and called for immediate action to prevent further deaths. He emphasized that specific offenses like strangulation and attempted murder should be considered more seriously when decisions are made about bailing domestic abuse suspects.
Liz Shanks, a survivor of domestic abuse who spoke with Swinney at Holyrood, warned that the meeting must not be a "media stunt" and that victims may be hesitant to come forward if they do not perceive the justice system as robust in addressing these issues.
During the debate, opposition MSPs highlighted a 14% annual increase in domestic abuse charges and called for a multi-faceted approach that includes more investment in community resources and education. Some questioned the effectiveness of GPS tracking as a sole solution, advocating for stronger bail laws and increased police investment.
Historically, electronic tagging in Scotland has primarily used older radio frequency (RF) equipment, restricting offenders to their homes. An expert group recommended the adoption of GPS monitoring in 2016, but a recent recommendation from Community Justice Scotland urged the government to accelerate the expansion of more sophisticated monitoring systems. England and Wales have utilized GPS technology more broadly since 2018.
In his opening remarks, Swinney addressed the influence of the "manosphere" and extreme pornography, stating they have "warped views and attitudes in disturbing and profoundly harmful ways." He committed the government to a "public health preventative approach" and to advocating for stronger social media regulations. Liberal Democrat MSP Yi-pei Chou Turvey also pushed for the immediate launch of special sexual offenses courts, with Swinney indicating that funding for such a scheme is planned for the next fiscal year.