Assistant chief constable Emma Bond has defended Police Scotland’s handling of Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to Scotland, rejecting claims that officers are being unfairly pressured to work longer hours. The US president is set to open a new golf course at his Menie resort in Aberdeenshire, named after his mother Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, who was born on the Isle of Lewis. He is also expected to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the trip.
Bond, the gold commander for the policing plan, described the operation as “large-scale and complex”, the largest in Scotland since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. The force will deploy local officers, national divisions, special constables, and UK-wide specialist support, alongside direct coordination with the US Secret Service. Bond emphasised that the priority is to ensure the president “enjoys a peaceful and safe visit” while maintaining regular policing services.
On Monday, the Scottish Police Federation raised concerns about insufficient officer numbers and alleged that some staff were being pressured to work beyond agreed hours, prompting the union to seek legal advice. Bond acknowledged these concerns, stating that senior commanders “fully recognise” them and are working with the union to address them. She expressed confidence in delivering the strategy as set out, though she declined to confirm specific officer numbers. A request for mutual aid has been made to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Bond also outlined plans for policing expected protests, noting that “thousands” demonstrated during Trump’s 2018 visit. She stressed a “positive and engaged approach” but warned that abusive behaviour, disruption, or public safety risks would not be tolerated. The force has yet to speak to the Stop Trump Coalition, one of the main protest organisers, which has called for gatherings in Edinburgh and Aberdeen on Saturday.
