Get to Know the Vigilant and Well-Organized London Police Force
January 13, 2009
The London population is nearly double compared to Paris, four times compared to New York, 12 times if you measure it with Amsterdam, and 18 times put it side by side with Rome. Truly, one of the surprising things about London is the rapid growth of its population.
But while the city attracts the most industrious and enterprising men from other cities and countries, it can also attract the desperate and miserable ones. These include a multitude of prostitutes, beggars, and criminals.
Metropolitan Police Force
Fortunately, London has a number of steady, active, and honest men who can protect the public from these elements – the Metropolitan Police Force – led by experienced and skilled officers. In fact, a distinguished stranger who visited England complimented the English Police Force by saying that he has never seen a more efficient group of men existing in any country.
Indeed, this vigilant and well selected body has immeasurable value to the metropolis. Before its establishment, the London government was totally in the Corporation’s hands. It has a local and inefficient administration. You will often find disorder, maladministration, waste, and jobbing. The police of London was not spared from this reputation as well.
This is the situation decades ago – it’s unsafe to walk anywhere after nightfall because the scoundrels are everywhere. You can find thieves on the river, in suburbs, and on the streets. They hustle passengers and create gangs. In fact, they are more organized than the London police.
Fortunately, the new police force was organized and deployed all over the city. Each division is in direct communication with the Scotland Yard central office so that they can seek for reinforcements if needed. Because of this, there are reserved men who can be concentrated in any given division when there are special events or occasions.
Police Officers
The entire force is directed by a Chief Commissioner and two Assistant-Commissioners. They are in charge of executing the Acts of Parliament, including the organization, framing and regulations of its members such as selection, inspection, and discipline in the discharge of their duties.
Selection Process
Every possible caution is undertaken to fill the police force ranks. Before a candidate is admitted to take the examination, he must be below 30 years old, strong, free from sickness, and must stand five feet seven inches or more. If married, he should only have two children or less who are dependent on him for support.
More important, a policeman must have flawless character – with sobriety, industry, honesty, and a good temper. Truly, the city of London has reason to be proud of their police force.
