UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman on Saturday ordered a review into activism and impartiality in the country’s police forces as she called on officers to focus on tackling crime rather than being involved in political matters.
The 43-year-old Indian-origin Cabinet minister has commissioned His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) to undertake a review of the extent to which involvement in political activities may be impacting the effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy of operational policing in England and Wales, by influencing policing policy, priorities and practice. The UK Home Office said the country’s policing model expects that the police should, at all times, adopt a position of political neutrality.
“The British people expect their police to focus on cutting crime and protecting communities – political activism does not keep people safe, solve crimes or support victims, but can damage public confidence,” said Braverman.
“The review I’ve commissioned will explore whether the police getting involved in politically contentious matters is having a detrimental impact on policing. I will leave no stone unturned in ensuring policing acts for the benefit of the British public,” she said.
In a letter to police chiefs, the minister praised forces for their hard work and dedication, noting the extraordinary levels of bravery and commitment officers up and down the country show. However, she highlighted cases where she believed public confidence had been damaged by police engaging in contentious issues.
This includes policing gender-critical views on social media, conduct at political marches and officers taking the knee during the Black Lives Matter protests.