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| Got something to say? Write to OFFBEAT and say it. We're here for you. Address letters or faxes to OFFBEAT Editor. Or email us at offbeat@police.gcn.gov.hk . We will not publish letters sent anonymously. We will withhold names on request. |
Poor response
In relation to the comments made by Jim Walker regarding the cap, I concur 100 per cent with his comments, as would the great majority of our Force members.
However, I was disappointed with the shallow reply to them which completely failed to address the concerns raised in Mr Walker's letter, which I believe can be summarised in two main points: the cap is a poor piece of operational equipment which should be replaced, and secondly, if the cap truly cannot be replaced, Force management should not impose such strict instructions regarding the wearing of it.
It is cumbersome, unwieldy and very hot to wear in summer, and must be removed to undertake even the simplest routine tasks. I cannot agree that the cap has a positive image, or that it provides any sort of protection for the wearer.
The cap has no more of a positive image than any other piece of our uniform, and by its sheer construction, certainly provides no type of real protection for the person wearing it. Secondly, when senior management insists the cap be worn at all times, they unnecessarily create hardship for beat officers trying to work. It is necessary for officers to often remove the cap and for them to be in fear of disciplinary action over simply doing their job is surely mindless policy.
My question is why not equip officers with the best equipment possible? Why have an irrational emotional attachment to an ill-conceived piece of headgear?
T. A. Bancroft
Detective Senior Inspector
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