| Letter of Support from the Commissioner |
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Dear Palbinder, Commissioner Sir Ian Blair had asked that I respond on his behalf to the issues raised in your e-mail of 30th August 2007 concerning comments made by Garda Commissioner Noel around the wearing (or non-wearing) of turbans by Garda police officers. Whilst it would be unhelpful for me to comment upon the policies or approaches adopted by other national police services, I am able to reiterate the MPS’ strong commitment to ensuring that the MPS reflects, and is trusted by, the communities it serves. The fact that over 50% of police officer applications now come from BME applicants has been achieved following several years of community based recruitment initiatives supported and often progressed by MPS staff associations such as the Sikh Association. The MPS is committed to respecting and valuing difference. Accommodating difference (in this case the wearing of a turban although it could equally be the wearing of the Hijab or a scull cap) is important as it reinforces the commitment to diversity and sends out a strong internal and external message that the MPS is a police service for all communities. This is important for a number of reasons including developing confidence and trust, attracting further recruits from under represented communities and increasing the reporting of hate crime from some of London’s most vulnerable groups. The MPS continually reviews strategy and policy decisions to ensure that they remain relevant to current circumstances, challenges and risks. However, and for the reasons discussed above, there is no consideration being given to changing the dress code criteria that allows police officers and PCSOs to wear turbans. The MPS benefits tremendously from the input, engagement and energy of its staff associations. Unquestionably, the work and commitment of associations such as the MPS Sikh Association helps increase confidence in policing and makes London safer for the communities we serve. I am happy to meet with you, or colleagues, to discuss the matter in further detail. Yours sincerely, Ed Bateman Chief Superintendent Diversity Citizen Focus Directorate |