Home Office looks to restrict ex-police officer careers

THE Home Office is considering trying to implement “formal restrictions” on police officers’ employment after they leave the service.

Neil Bowles, chairman of South Yorkshire Police Federation, said: “Where is the evidence this is needed for a small number of public servants?”

The Home Office gave no timeline for the possible introduction of any restrictions.

In a written response to Home Affairs Select Committee, the Home Office said: “We are currently considering whether it would be appropriate for members of the police to have formal restrictions on employment after leaving the service, and what such measures might entail.”

Mr Bowles said he agreed that “procurement decision makers” in a force should have certain post retirement work restrictions “for a certain amount of time to be clear there are no integrity issues.”

He added: “It is totally out of order for Federated officers. There are enough restrictions on police officers and a code of conduct to adhere to – and officers are not adequately recompensed as it is.  They do not need this after they have retired.”

According to PoliceOracle.com, a proposed national register of officers’ second jobs, hospitality and gifts – another landmark reform in professional standards – could be in place by the autumn.

National guidance on business interests held by serving officers and staff includes a “suggested” list of second jobs that conflict with being in the Police Service and this includes private investigators.

But the Home Office added it was “not possible to provide a definitive list of occupations incompatible with the role of police officer”.

MPs on HASC also said that any contact serving officers have with private investigators should be recorded.

The Home Office said: “The government will consider very carefully the recommendation that any contact between police officers and private investigators be recorded.

“Furthermore, the government will also consider whether any such restrictions or requirements that are placed on the police should be extended to other agencies with investigative or covert powers and with the potential for contact with private investigators.”

Home Secretary Theresa May has also announced new legislation that will see the Security Industry Authority license private investigators once they have achieved a government-recognised qualification and undergone a criminal records check. Those with convictions for offences under the Data Protection Act will be barred from receiving a licence.

Operating without one will become an offence punishable by up to six months in prison and a £5,000 fine.