The Police Service of Scotland website uses the Google Translate tool to process its page into 66 different languages, including Afrikaans and Swahili. However, there is no provision for Scotland’s Gaelic speakers, who are predominantly based in the Western Isles. It is the latest blow for islanders who are concerned the new service – based in Stirling and headed up by former Strathclyde Chief Constable Stephen House – will favour those living in the central belt.

Western Isles councillor Norman Macleod, the former convener of the Northern Joint Police Board, told the Sunday Express that he was “very disappointed” that the new force had overlooked Gaelic speakers.

“This is indeed a surprise, especially when the Scottish Government continue to insist that Gaelic is being promoted throughout the whole of Scotland. Under Northern Constabulary and the Northern Joint Police Board, Gaelic was protected and I’m really surprised about this approach by the new service. There was information on the Internet in Gaelic and the annual reports were translated too because it was a requirement that they provide that. They have very short memories and I’m very disappointed – this needs to be addressed.”

The website offers the public vital information, including news, community updates, recruitment announcements, advice to victims of crime and contact details.

Mr Macleod, who lives on the Isle of Lewis, added: “Given the role of Gaelic and the fact that people are trying to resurrect and increase the use of the language throughout Scotland, it is a shame that the Police Service of Scotland doesn’t even acknowledge that.
“We do as much as we can to promote Gaelic and then it doesn’t even feature on the Police Scotland website. It really is a slap in the face for Scottish people. Why should we have expressions in every other language available except from the one that should be foremost in our minds after English?”

John Angus MacKay, chief executive of quango Bòrd na Gàidhlig, set up to promote Gaelic in Scotland, said: “Gaelic is an official language of Scotland, and a integral part of Scotland’s culture and identity. Like other Public Authorities in Scotland, Police Scotland will be obliged to prepare a Gaelic Language Plan.
“We look forward to working with Police Scotland over the coming months to increase and strengthen their Gaelic ethos across the nation, including their website being made available in Gaelic also.

“The motto of the police training college at Tulliallan is in Gaelic – Bi Glic / Be Wise.”

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland explained work was underway to tackle the problem.  She said: “We are currently developing a Gaelic Language Plan and hope to take this to the SPA meeting in Stornoway. This plan will build on the previous Northern Constabulary Plan and will include the website.”