POLICE Scotland has "temporarily suspended non-essential training" in a bid to support communities amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The majority of training will be stopped from Friday with 266 positive cases in Scotland and six deaths.

Probationer, public order and first aid training is scheduled to continue.

Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: "We have temporarily suspended non-essential training so that we can support local communities.

"The training of probationary constables and other essential training will continue."

Earlier on Thursday, Mike Russell announced Scottish Government plans to support the Coronavirus Bill through a legislative consent motion in Holyrood.

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It will grant new powers to cancel events and allow police to compel potentially infectious people to undergo Covid-19 screening and assessment.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said: "Scotland, like the rest of the world, is dealing with unprecedented challenges and demands as we respond to the coronavirus outbreak.

"My priority is, as always, to ensure the people of Scotland are protected and policed effectively.

"Our officers and staff are working around the clock to support the magnificent work of health professionals and, crucially, our fellow citizens as we all face the difficult days ahead together.

"I am confident that by working together we can respond to this outbreak and keep our communities safe."