Who Needs Trained Police Anyway?

The Brits are putting people on the streets without full police training but with powers.

The government introduced civilian support staff (CSOs), two years ago. They carry out local patrols, providing public reassurance. There are now 3,500 in 38 of the 43 English and Welsh forces.

Many police officers worry that the government's longterm aim is to increase the use of CSOs - dubbed by critics "Blunkett's bouncers" - to save money and cut numbers of fully qualified officers.

Mr Blunkett told delegates yesterday that plans to raise the numbers of CSOs to 4,000 by next year would go ahead.

Hmmm . . . Life imitating art?

Alex: It's impossible! I can't believe it!
Georgie: Evidence of the ol' glassies! Nothing up our sleeves, no magic little Alex! A job for two who are now of job age! The police!