BLUNKETT HEAPS MORE RED TAPE ON POLICE

Re: Red Tape Will Undermine Stop And Search

SIR - It is obvious that David Blunkett is not being advised by a police
officer who has been on front-line duties successfully making many arrests
as a result of "stop and search".

In the presence of hostility, an officer wishes to conduct the stop and
search as quickly, quietly and politely as possible, at the same time
watching the suspect to prevent escape, the use of a weapon or disposal of
evidence. The officer also must watch his back for any possible attack.

He cannot afford any delay. If an officer is on his own and wishes to
search more than one suspect, it must be done expeditiously, without the
hindrance of paperwork. In dark, wet and windy conditions, will the officer
have to get his pen and paper out and start writing?

Stop and search is an excellent deterrent and method of detecting the
possession of offensive weapons, drugs or stolen property. Police should be
encouraged to use it, not discouraged.

Kenneth Rogers

Wivenhoe, Essex