In a statement, Commissioner Bruce Adamson said: “Deprivation of liberty is one of the most serious intrusions the State can make in the life of a child and children detained are often some of the most vulnerable in society.

“I’m concerned that when there is a need to place a child in secure accommodation that beds are not always available for them, in part due to the pressure that English placements are creating for the Scottish secure estate. When children are detained, which must only be as a last resort, it is important that they stay as close as possible to their families and communities.”