Masked Police ...

I see the vexed question of when did policemen start dressing like "Federation" extras from Blake's 7 has come up again.  I did try to find out years ago but ...

Information Compliance and Records 

Management Unit (ICRMU)

Information Management Branch 

Date: 17/05/2023

Our ref: 1788/23

 

Dear Anthony, 

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST REFERENCE NO: GSA 1788/23 

I write in connection with your request for information dated 04/04/2023, received by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) for the following information: 

I'm watching the sentencing of Olivia's murderer on the BBC... One but not all of the policemen is wearing a balaclava. I see this more and more. Is there any reason policemen have started dressing like extras in the last episode of Blake's 7? Is it for fear of retribution? If so why only heavily armed policemen rather than ordinary ones? Is it for a practical reason ? Is he cold?

Result of Searches

Following receipt of your request searches were conducted within Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to locate the requested information and I can confirm the information requested is held by GMP. 

Any Police Officer, including Firearms Officers, can wear a mask/face covering in public to protect themselves from environmental risks such as biological, chemical or fire. 

National guidance also allows for Police Officers, including Firearms Officers, to wear a mask/face covering in public to protect the officer’s identity, this is based on threat and risk balanced against public perception.

Uniform worn by police officers, are robustly considered to provide a balance between practicality, functionality, and visual representation of the modern-day Police Service. Uniform is an integral part of a police officer’s protection against the risks posed to them while working in their role specific environments.