British policemen are well known for their white shirt and clip on black ties. But it seems like they are dropping the traditional uniform for a more comfortable outfit which is said to be more breathable and lightweight.They will still retain the protective body armour vests worn on top of the new black shirts.
Officers are saying that the old uniform is impractical, restrictive and uncomfortable under their vests.
The new black uniforms received good criticisms but failed to impress Britain's most senior policeman. They have
recently launched attack on the ‘paramilitary style’ uniforms. Sir Paul Stephenson, Commissioner of the Met, spoke out against the all-black kit favoured by an increasing number of constabularies.
recently launched attack on the ‘paramilitary style’ uniforms. Sir Paul Stephenson, Commissioner of the Met, spoke out against the all-black kit favoured by an increasing number of constabularies.
A senior officer, Barry Taylor spoke as Association of Chief Police Officers’ spokesman on these new British police black uniforms and said "I am not in favour of black shirts because of the political connotations. It gives the wrong impression, which we should try and avoid where possible." Some even say that these black uniforms will give officers a sinister, unfriendly and militaristic appearance. But it seems like the black uniform is pushing through.
Ian Arundale, the deputy chief constable of West Mercia police, which operates in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire, said: "After body armour was introduced to protect police and community support officers out on patrol it became apparent that the traditional white shirt and clip-on tie was no longer a suitable uniform for front-line officers."
Officers in north Worcestershire will start wearing the shirts from June 11, with others in Herefordshire, Shropshire, south Worcestershire and Telford & Wrekin following suit on June 25.
Ian Arundale, the deputy chief constable of West Mercia police, which operates in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire, said: "After body armour was introduced to protect police and community support officers out on patrol it became apparent that the traditional white shirt and clip-on tie was no longer a suitable uniform for front-line officers."
Officers in north Worcestershire will start wearing the shirts from June 11, with others in Herefordshire, Shropshire, south Worcestershire and Telford & Wrekin following suit on June 25.
Source: www.dailymail.co.uk ; www.telegraph.co.uk
