THE Chief Constable’s admission that Police Scotland is “institutionally racist” is "momentous and historic", said the First Minister.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone made his statement to the Scottish Police Authority on Thursday.

He said: "It is right for me, the right thing for me to do as Chief Constable, to clearly state that institutional racism, sexism, misogyny and discrimination exist.

"Police Scotland is institutionally racist and discriminatory.

"Publicly acknowledging these institutional issues exist is essential to our absolute commitment to championing equality and becoming an anti-racist service. It is also critical to our determination to lead wider change in society.

"Prejudice and bad behaviour within policing, as highlighted by court and conduct cases, various independent reviews and by listening to our own officers and staff over recent years, is rightly of great concern and is utterly condemned.”

Mr Livingstone who is stepping down as Chief Constable this year said the force must rid itself of prejudice.

He added: “A candid, clear assessment of institutional discrimination means recognising our absolute duty to provide just and effective policing for all according to their specific needs and circumstances.

"It also requires identifying and removing the deep-rooted barriers to achieving this. These are necessary steps to progress the commitment that Police Scotland will be anti-racist; a personal commitment I made to my fellow citizens at the commencement of the public inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh."

Humza Yousaf was asked about the report by Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, who said it raised “serious concerns”.

Glasgow Times:

Mr Ross said: “There are first-hand instances of racism, sexism and homophobia.”

Mr Yousaf said: “The acknowledgment of institutional racism is the first step.

"There’s no doubt institutional racism exists in our society.

"The statement from the Chief Constable is monumental and historic.

“Having made the acknowledgment it is important we see action to dismantle this behaviour of institutional racism, misogyny and bigotry.”

Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, said it was a bold statement.

He said: “There is not a single institution immune to prejudice.”