§ Lord Ouseleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Why policies and procedures relating to disciplinary action against police officers make it difficult for those charged with racially discriminatory behaviour to be dismissed. [HL465]
§ Baroness Scotland of AsthalThe current Police (Conduct) Regulations 1999 have evolved from a requirement to protect persons holding the unique position of police officers. They are not employees, but are office holders and are exempt from most employment law, including being able to form unions, and to go on strike. Much of the system is therefore designed to protect officers from unfair dismissal. Officers require protection due to their particular status as they do not have access to employment tribunals (except in very limited circumstances) and are not covered by most employment law. Officers may also be subject to malicious and unsubstantiated allegations that require a thorough investigation.
Racially discriminatory behaviour is a serious breach of the code of conduct governing a police officer's behaviour and, as with any other alleged breach of the code, any disciplinary action follows the procedures set out in those regulations.