Letter: The importance of retaining local accountability for Britain's police

Wednesday 10 February 1993 19:02 EST

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Sir: Sir John Wheeler's views on nationalisation of the police seem at odds with those of a former Conservative Home Secretary, R. A, later Lord, Butler who said:

I am quite convinced that it would be wrong for one man or one government to be in charge directly of the whole police of this country. Our constitution is based on checks and balances. This has kept our liberty throughout the generations.

Perhaps checks and balances have gone out of fashion. A combination of a defective constitution and a national police organisation fills dictators with glee.

Yours faithfully,

JOHN ALDERSON

Ottery St Mary, Devon

10 February

The writer was Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall, 1973-82.

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Letter: The importance of retaining local accountability for Britain's police

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