Currently His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prosecution in Scotland, Ms Paton will take up her role as commissioner on 1 April 2025, for a five-year period.

PIRC aims to increase public confidence in policing through the independent investigations into serious incidents involving all policing bodies operating in Scotland and the way they respond to public complaints, as well as promoting continuous improvement.

Ms Paton, will succeed the current commissioner, Michelle Macleod CBE, who retires on 14 February 2025 after almost six years in the role. An acting commissioner will be appointed for the short period between the appointments. 

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “The PIRC plays a vital role in safeguarding the trust the public have in their police service.

“I am sure the extensive knowledge and experience of the justice system that Laura Paton brings to the role will build on the excellent work undertaken by Michelle Macleod CBE.

“I look forward to working with Ms Paton, as she drives the organisation forward and ensures it delivers on the new responsibilities contained within the recently passed Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) (Scotland) Bill.

“I would also like to commend Ms Macleod for her dedicated service and wish her well for the future.”

Ms Paton said: “I am delighted to be taking up this appointment. The work of my predecessor, Michelle Macleod CBE, has provided a robust foundation in holding the police to account and improving standards in policing.

“I look forward to further developing and expanding the organisation’s role over the coming years to strengthen and reinforce public confidence in policing in Scotland.”