The move has been welcomed by the body representing local rank-and-file officers, which acknowledged members had “felt under pressure” to report the vast majority of minor crimes.

Citing a need for clarification, recently-appointed Mr Mathieson says unless officers use common sense when arresting and charging they will lose the trust of the public.

He begins, “There have been times over the past few months when I have had occasion to examine the judgement of some officers in the application of discretion when dealing with potential offenders.

“The use of discretion is one of the most important aspects of our role, for it allows us to apply judgement and common sense in how we exercise our powers, and that permits public trust and confidence in what we do.

“The issue of public trust and confidence is hugely important for we need it to carry out our role in so many different ways, not the least of which is witness participation.

“This aspect of our role appears to have been lost along the way for some officers who wrongly perceive that the ‘performance culture’ means that volume of prosecutions is seen as indicating the mark of a good officer.

“This is not what good policing about.”

However, Mr Mathieson’s email ends with a reminder his guidance does not mean officers should stand idly by as crimes are being committed.

He writes, “This is not intended as a charter for officers to do nothing, but is meant to ensure greater thought is given to the outcome of our interaction with the public.”

Malcolm Gibbs, the secretary of the Scottish Police Federation’s local branch, said he had read with interest the DCC’s comments on discretion.

Sergeant Gibbs said, “As far as I am concerned, nothing has ever changed with regards to discretion.

“What is clear, however, is that, over the past few years, officers have felt less inclined to use discretion due to changes in the manner in which crimes are recorded in Scotland.

“Statutory performance indicators laid down by the Scottish Government and Audit Scotland have also undoubtedly had a significant impact on the present reporting culture within the service.

“Our branch board has been in discussion regarding this, with the force executive. Officers have felt under pressure to report the vast majority of minor crimes and this has caused many members to raise their concerns with me.

“I know police want to use discretion for minor crimes and offences if appropriate.

“I am fully supportive of the message sent out by Mr Mathieson which simply reminds officers of the use of discretion and reinforces the position that they will be supported by the force executive when they use this power appropriately.”