This article by Henry Porter in today’s Observer makes interesting reading, contrasting Labour’s relatively generous treatment of the police with its niggardly support for the armed forces.
Whilst not agreeing wholly with the article's analysis, I have to say that most of it is bang on; the armed forces have indeed been starved of resources in comparison to the police.
Particularly telling is Porter’s comment on the now notorious video of Chief Constable Brunstrom’s voluntary tasering (categorised unfathomably as “comedy” on YouTube). Porter writes:
“But it was the police uniforms that caught my eye. Under his supervision, the blue uniforms and white shirts of the past have been replaced by black, open-neck shirts in what he calls 'hi-tech' fibre, then surmounted with body armour, enormous belts carrying every possible gadget and silly looking baseball hats. His officers resemble Uruguayan riot police.”
Have to say I agree. Police uniform should assist the officer in commanding respect. The current “Village People” gear is faintly risible and does little to bolster the officer’s authority.
Whilst not agreeing wholly with the article's analysis, I have to say that most of it is bang on; the armed forces have indeed been starved of resources in comparison to the police.
Particularly telling is Porter’s comment on the now notorious video of Chief Constable Brunstrom’s voluntary tasering (categorised unfathomably as “comedy” on YouTube). Porter writes:
“But it was the police uniforms that caught my eye. Under his supervision, the blue uniforms and white shirts of the past have been replaced by black, open-neck shirts in what he calls 'hi-tech' fibre, then surmounted with body armour, enormous belts carrying every possible gadget and silly looking baseball hats. His officers resemble Uruguayan riot police.”
Have to say I agree. Police uniform should assist the officer in commanding respect. The current “Village People” gear is faintly risible and does little to bolster the officer’s authority.
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