Police Uniforms

This stems from a discussion that was started at the dinner table today.

My father is a serving police officer, my mother retired, both in the metropolitan police. Following Obama's visit and the discussions surrounding that, I asked the question as to why the Met haven't gone the same way as many other forces and taken the functional and more comfortable polo shirt and combats uniform, and are retaining the older shirt-and-tie.

They both countered with the fact that it's public perception of them, and they have an image to maintain, whereas I think they should have a uniform that is more comfortable and allows them to do their jobs more effectively.

So really - what do you think? Do you reckon we should have police who are smart (IE collar and tie) at the expense of a certain amount of comfort, or the more 'relaxed' look (Polo shirt and 'combat' trousers) that isn't as smart, but is more functional?
I'd just be interested to hear opinions, and also as I know we have a number of the boys and girls in blue on here, if they have personal experiences from either side of the fence?

EDIT: Added some example pictures:
Polo shirt example
Collar and tie example

[Bluepete]

We are in combats and sh1tty thermal black Lycra type tops. They are more comfy, but look like cack.

I don't think, with the state of the country and the way people are, that the uniform makes any difference to the way we are perceived.

As an aside, we had to have new pics taken for new warrant cards wearing a shirt and tie!

Pete

[G]

Standing on a roadside doesn't require a polo shirt. Shirt and tie required in my opinion, especially in those circumstances. I've seen met armed response in polo shirts and combats. Most police I see in London come from no where and are plain clothed everytime to be fair.

I think it very much depends on the role your doing at any specific time, that seems to be the policy in Nottinghamshire anyway.

[punyXpress]

" As an aside, we had to have new pics taken for new avatars & warrant cards wearing a shirt and tie! "
Oh really, Pete ?

we wear shirts with our uniform, (army) and we manage to do what is required so if the police like the current shirt and tie why change it

[Bluepete]

Originally Posted by Dave Mac

why change it

because promotion in the cops is achieved in the following manner.

1; I want promoting

2; what can I change that doesn't need changing and works perfectly well?

3; I've identified something I can change, I've changed it, not necessarily for the better and I've been promoted.

4; new promotion prospect comes along and... Guess what? It all gets changed back!

Pete

lol, pretty much like our lot

[Bri w]

Wrapping a package in pretty bows and ribbons doesn't make it a better package.

Originally Posted by Bri w

Wrapping a package in pretty bows and ribbons doesn't make it a better package.

The PCSOs round our way have really pushed the boat out.


I have to wear the support staff garb and think the uniform I wear is uncomfortable.
Then I see the firearms staff & thank my lucky stars I don't have to wear all that kit.

Not seen anyone yet wearing either style who doesn't look smart enough for job imo.

[Bibio]

i think that they are looking more and more like soldiers than police officers. PO's used to look like people you could approach now they look like people who would shoot you. mind you that's even if you do ever see them out on the streets which is never unless there is an event on.