Police trial electronic notebooks

The gadget which signals the end of traditional notebooks

Traditional notebooks used by police officers are being replaced with electronic pads in a bid to save time and cut down on paperwork.

Strathclyde Police said it was the first UK force to trial the new "mobile data system".

Officers will be able to take down witness statements and accident reports on the hi-tech pad, which will then be downloaded onto a computer.

It is hoped the technology will save officers about one hour per shift.

Police in Govan, Glasgow, are the first to use the new system.

Digital screens will also be installed on police car dashboards to provide officers with access to all the information they need while on the go.

'Real impact'

Deputy Chief Constable Ricky Gray said: "This innovative step forward sees the force at the forefront of modern day policing, using state-of-the-art technology.

"One of the biggest benefits which will come from this initiative is a real impact on bureaucracy, freeing up time for additional patrolling."

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "The use of technology by Strathclyde Police to free up officers' time to police our streets is just the kind of initiative that we want to see.

"This is about allowing modern technology to help our officers do their difficult job."