Policing a Britain Under Threat

Abstract

My first task is to say something about the reality of what is loosely called law and order, and in doing so I suspect I may shatter a few long cherished illusions. Most of you will have formed a general impression that effective law and order depends on an efficient and honest police force serving an effective justice system. The crime novel since Sherlock Holmes, the cinema and television screens, even the news media, will throughout most of your lives have promoted a general belief in both, encouraged by lawyers, journalists and even some policemen.