Fed chair’s disgust at Amazon

2 July 2020

National Federation chair John Apter has expressed his anger and disgust that Amazon has refused to stop selling ‘Blue Lives Murder’ merchandise.

John last week wrote to Amazon’s UK-based managing director Doug Gurr and called on the company to withdraw the merchandise.

But following a meeting this week with Amazon UK executives, the plea was rejected. The company said the merchandise does not contravene its policies.

John said: “I believe most members of the public will agree with me that this calls into account the moral judgement of Amazon. I really can’t contain my anger and disgust that Amazon failed to act and refuse to remove the ‘Blue Lives Murder’ merchandise from sale.

“I met with senior directors from Amazon UK and they did not consider that the sale of these disgraceful items contravenes their policy on offensive and controversial materials.

“I think this is a bad decision and a wrong decision and smacks of poor judgement. I believe that this is a decision police officers and the public will find hard to understand and stomach.

“Given recent attacks on my colleagues, this was an opportunity for Amazon to hear the voices of those officers, their families and others who have objected to the sale of these items and to show support for policing during this difficult and dangerous time. With policing under so much pressure and being unfairly vilified by some, this is a kick in the teeth.

“I hope Amazon will urgently reconsider its decision and put right the wrong many of us feel.”

Tony Wetton, chair of Derbyshire Police Federation, has also urged Amazon to show its support for policing and take down the ‘Blue Lives Murder’ items.

“I was stunned when I first saw them,” said Tony. “I can’t believe that any retailer would want to be associated with something which is so highly inflammatory.

“Our members are in their communities every day, building relationships and trust with the people they serve and protect. This range of items seeks to drive a wedge between us and our communities and undo all of that good work.

“I would urge Amazon to demonstrate support for our dedicated officers by taking down this deeply offensive range.”