We invited Sir Ian Blair’s Pet to summarise the latest view on Policing

Heres what he had to say . . .

“One has to be rather careful these days when tweeting; (that’s why I added in my bio that I am not Sir Ian but I am his pet. I didn’t think the “establishment” would value some of my ramblings; but hey-ho as they say. I’m not here for them. Inspector Roger Nield, a keen twitterer, was first to experience my rants, and he quite rightly followed up summarising that my twitter channel was “a protest channel.” Let’s protest then.

I am flabbergasted at the rate of change and developments in policing. What surprises me even more is the manner in which policing priorities tilt between political parties in power. Fascinating though this may be; I am still of the opinion that the office of constable and oath to the queen (no, not the twitter queen), take priority over any promise made to any Home Secretary or Police Minister.

The public should always come first; however with the nature of the cuts to follow; will this really happen? Policing will soon be left with a void of skills at the time it needs it most, (A19). Hello! Has the right Honourable Minister forgotten about the 2012 Olympics and potential serious problems that may arise? Don’t utter the word “terrorism.” We’re not allowed to mention the word. Policing difficulties where investigation skills and tenacity of well served officers may be required will be gone in a swipe of a pen.  Cutting the front line is a dangerous act. 20 percent cuts will have a profound impact on service delivery; and anyone that thinks otherwise is a “donkey” leader metaphorically speaking of course. Let’s get this straight I am not calling any leader a donkey; not at all; it’s just the way I write.

Front line numbers will be cut; skills and talent of the “old” will go, and a “shabbiness” of a two tier PCSO/Police system will remain. PCSO’s who have no powers hardly have an impact on reassurance. So what’s the point? I predict ASB will continue to be a problem. With front line numbers cut surely there will be an impact on other crime and crime types also. Closes eyes-and puts hands on head. And wonders what will happen to violent/gang crime?

Bringing me on to the subject of reform, I cannot understand why, having realised the “hastiness” or “stupidity” of bankers, why such severe cutbacks would not have led to a Police Commission earlier. Instead we have Messrs Winsor, Hutton, and Neyroud, with his report. Oh Peter, police leadership is not just about the American experience. Licenses?   Peter’s been drinking wine again. Hangs head in shame. And my friend Sir Hugh Orde,  “You Heard,” as I like to call him. We didn’t hear from you Hugh, we didn’t see your report first Hugh; we heard from the press. That still peeves me, but I believe it peeves the rank and file and Federation more. The head of the NPIA though, he’s never peeved.

In this mayhem some stalwarts have stood up; Messrs Fahy, Sims and Stuonline. However, three out of 43 is appalling. And whilst a commission is necessary my heart tells me that with the lack of finances this government will push their reforms with vigour. Let’s be frank, Winsor is an attack on police pay, conditions and pensions. Governments rarely acknowledge the danger faced by police officers and uniqueness of the role. Enough from me, In fact no, there are two more things. (1) I don’t think you need a Chief Constable in charge of the NPIA; an ACC would suffice; what an earth are we doing? (2) Social Media – is a great policing tool; but it is one of many in the police armoury.  The recent 5 press officers tweeting from West Midlands police brought a giggle but is it really the role of the police to tweet court results? No, no, no. If the Federation wants to maintain its credibility it must do all it can to challenge what I call examples like this of continued “silliness” management interventions in some police decisions. Paul McKeever is doing a splendid job by the way. Tally Ho. And Happy Easter.”

 

Please note Sir Ian Blair’s pet is not the real Sir Ian Blair.

Sir Ian Blair’s pet can be found on twitter search for:

IanBlair @SirIanBlair IanBlair