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A proud mark of authority

I wish to make a few observations on the comments of Jim Walker regarding police caps.
First of all, I must say Mr Walker makes some very valid comments regarding the wearing of caps for Internal Security training and crowd management duties. I can see no logical reason why all front line officers should not be issued with a beret for this kind of duty.
I also agree there may be refinements that could be made to make caps more comfortable.
On the general issue of the scrapping of caps I must disagree with him. The cap is recognised by the public, more than any other items of Police uniform, as being a symbol of authority.
It serves two very useful purposes. The first, it is easily spotted in a street or crowded situation, far more so than a beret. The second, it provides shade for the eyes in the (occasional) bright sunlight of Hong Kong.
The wearer of a Police cap is strongly identified by members of the public as being a source of assistance and safety. We should wear it with pride!






N.D. Howcroft

District Commander, MTR

(Note: Support Wing says it welcomes all constructive ideas on uniforms and accoutrements.)






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