Has this anti terror thing with armed walt like police on gurad all over the place got out of hand. I mean when exactly was the last time that they were utilised. Are they not over paid, over qualified and under trained? Could they not be better utilised actually back on the beat, doing a job that is far more needed. Security, especially point security and guarding of airports. stations etc could be better placed in the hands of extended service or MPGS?[/quote]
Under trained. Authorised firearms officers have to through a rigorous selection process (and no, i'm not one myself) and three weeks training on not only marksmanship but tactics. They refresh regularly as opposed to soldiers from the support arms.
Back on the Beat. I agree, there should be more back on the beat but unfortunately due to the current threat overtly armed police are needed to guard major institutions. If they were removed and something happened you would probably drip about "where were the walt firearms coppers". Perhaps manning of police stations would be better served by getting schools liason, crime prevention, diversity, etc etc officers back on the streets.
As for the last quote. Whilst a lot of extened service blokes are top drawer i wouldn't want another service guarding public institutions on a regular basis. Not all sitautions the police on duty there deal with will involve firearms and would possible be dealt with by use of existing police powers. Do you whink that the MPGS and extended service blokes should be trained in police law and powers? hmm then they'll be policemen, walt policeman guarding fixed locations, the cycle goes on.