Scottish Government reform plan could merge the country's eight regional police forces into a single Scottish force.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill announced the Scottish Government will launch a consultation on major Police and Fire & Rescue services reform, which could result in the creation of a Scottish national police force.

Scotland has eight regional police forces and about 25% of the Government's policing budget is spent on headquarters bureaucracy.

The Scottish Government said the reform aims to reduce headquarters bureaucracy and save taxpayers money without hitting frontline operations.

The Government, which will take a decision on the issue after the consultation, favours the creation of a national police force.

A Scottish single police force is also supported by opposition parties Labour and the Conservatives, although the Liberal Democrats remain opposed.