To ask the Scottish Executive whether it is aware of the recent figures on police assault, as reported in The Scotsman on 26 January 2006.

We are aware of these reports. Attacks on the police and other emergency workers, who we all depend on for the vital services they provide, are abhorrent and I am sure that the Parliament joins with me in condemning them. The Emergency Workers (Scotland) Act 2005 came into force last May and makes it clear that the Executive will take action to ensure such behaviour is punished appropriately.