Data from Scotland’s chief statistician show that there were 16,207 full-time equivalent (FTE) police officers on June 30, a decline of 148 since March 31.

The number of FTE officers has fallen by 392 since June 30 last year and the figure is lower than before the SNP came to power in 2007.

Police Scotland said it currently has about 16,400 officers due to new starts.

Deputy chief constable Alan Speirs said: “We have set out plans to recruit over 1,300 new officers in 2024/25, the highest number Police Scotland has recruited in a single year. Last month, we welcomed over 250 new probationary constables into Police Scotland and our officer strength is now around 16,400.

“The chief constable has been clear that increasing officer numbers is a focus and, at the same time, we are pressing change that strengthens the frontline by redirecting resources or delivering efficiencies.”

Scottish Tory justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: “This is further damning evidence of the SNP’s shameful long-term neglect of policing in Scotland. Allowing officer numbers to plummet to a record low will only make our streets less safe.”

Ms Constance said: “I am disappointed with these figures as our record police funding of £1.55 billion this year enabled Police Scotland to restart recruitment and increase officer numbers.

“However, I understand that there are specific circumstances around this number which means this is a short-term reduction. Police pension changes, which are out of the control of the Scottish government, have led to more leavers.

“A welcome increase of four weeks in the police initial training course has also affected this set of figures. Police Scotland is set to take on more recruits this year than at any time since 2013 and they have stated that current officer numbers are about 16,400.

“Scotland continues to have more police officers per capita than England and Wales.”