URGENT UPDATE: The West Mercia Police Federation has just welcomed a significant government announcement regarding the assessment of police use of force. The criminal law test, essential for evaluating misconduct cases, is being restored, a move that aims to bolster the confidence and morale of frontline officers.
Branch secretary Lesley Williams called this development a “crucial step” for officers facing high-pressure situations. The change will allow officers to act under the belief that their use of force is necessary, reducing the risk of penalization for genuine mistakes. “We welcome this change in the law,” Williams stated, emphasizing the need for clarity during split-second decisions.
This new legal framework follows an independent review by Sir Adrian Fulford and Tim Godwin OBE QPM, which highlighted the detrimental effects past legal standards have had on police decision-making. Officers, particularly in firearms units, have expressed concerns over their future roles due to confusion stemming from a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that shifted the test from criminal to civil law, complicating their judgment in critical scenarios.
The Home Office has confirmed that the revised assessment will apply universally to all instances of force used by police, including self-defense situations. “Officers will continue to be held to account for their actions,” Williams assured, but she stressed that the system must be fair and consistent, allowing for honest beliefs during assessments of their conduct.
The federation’s statement indicates that the government will introduce legislation for this change following consultations with the Police Advisory Board for England and Wales. This legislative shift is anticipated as soon as the Parliamentary timetable permits, a timeline officers are eager to see expedited.
The impact of this change is profound, as police morale has waned significantly in recent years due to high-profile cases affecting public perception and officers’ confidence. Williams noted, “This change can’t come quickly enough,” highlighting the urgency felt by those on the front lines.
In addition to restoring the criminal law test, the review recommends a public consultation on the standards of proof in unlawful killing inquests, further emphasizing the need for clarity and fairness in policing.
As officers await the implementation of these changes, the West Mercia Police Federation is advocating for immediate action to restore the trust and integrity in policing procedures. The new framework aims not only to protect officers but also to ensure that justice is served in the communities they serve.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
