Police Scotland’s  top officer is under investigation over alleged misconduct.

Chief Constable Phil Gormley is subject of a probe by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.

He said: “I can confirm that today I was informed by the PIRC that I am the subject of a conduct investigation.

“I am cooperating fully with the PIRC and will provide all necessary assistance to bring this matter to a timely and satisfactory conclusion. In fairness to others who may be involved, it is not appropriate for me to comment further at this time.

“I would like to stress that I remain focussed on leading Police Scotland, ensuring that we continue to serve and protect the people of this country.”

A statement from the PIRC said today that they were conducting an investigation into allegations against a senior police officer.

It said: “Following a referral by the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), the Commissioner has assessed that the conduct which is the subject of the allegation would, if proved, amount to gross misconduct.

“Once the investigation is concluded the Commissioner must determine whether, in the investigator’s opinion, the senior officer has a case to answer in relation to the misconduct allegation.

“The Commissioner must submit a report to the SPA containing a summary of the evidence and the investigator’s opinion on whether the allegation should be referred to a misconduct hearing.

“Where the Authority determines that there is a case to answer for either misconduct or gross misconduct, it must refer the misconduct allegation to a misconduct hearing.

“As this is a live investigation it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”