Respect for the Police

Recently, I bought a second-hand copy of the book "Editor" by Max Hastings for our youngest son. I took the liberty of reading it, and enjoyed it hugely. In the book. Max contrasts the level of intellect displayed by senior Police Officers with that of senior Military Officers, the military being, in his view, far more impressive.

A number of incidents starting with the killing of Jean-Charles De Menezes at Stockwell Tube Station have increased my concern that our police service is an example of "Lions led by Donkeys". This story is another example. Surely, any well led organisation should have processes in place to ensure that behaviour such as these officers does not happen. I accept that every organisation will have a few rotten apples, but this is another story that will erode respect for the police.