Officers praised by Home Secretary

14 May 2020

Home Secretary Priti Patel has praised police officers for ‘working tirelessly’ to protect the vulnerable and keep the streets safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ms Patel has written a letter to the Police Federation of England and Wales in which she also praises officers for their courage and bravery during such challenging times.

Geoff Bardell, chair of Hertfordshire Police Federation, welcomed the comments.

“I am pleased to see that the Home Secretary has put on record her thanks to officers and acknowledged their efforts to keep people safe and protect the NHS,” he explained.

“They are doing a very difficult job in extremely challenging times, putting their own health at risk and potentially that of their families.”

The Home Secretary said officers were courageously serving the country and admitted she could not speak highly enough of their bravery, commitment and the sacrifices they were making on a daily basis.

“To help stop the spread of this terrible virus, we have asked the British public to put up with restrictions of their freedom and liberty we have not experienced in a generation. I know that the introduction of social distancing regulations has presented unprecedented challenges for policing, but you have all responded with extraordinary professionalism and unwavering dedication to meet the challenges posed by COVID-19, preserve your long-established relationship with the public and maintaining this country’s precious tradition of policing by consent,” said Ms Patel.

“As we move into the next phase of controlling this virus, we will also continue to work together in enforcing social distancing measures. I will continue to ensure that you have the support, guidance and powers you need to respond to this evolving situation and maintain critical services.”

The Home Secretary acknowledged there were individuals and families who had made significant sacrifices because of the virus, adding: “This extraordinary national effort has been quite remarkable, and I am grateful to everybody for playing their part.

“However, I am particularly grateful to you, our outstanding front-line police officers, staff and volunteers who continue to do an exceptional job in keeping our streets safe. You are still responding to all types of crime and working tirelessly to protect the vulnerable.

“As Home Secretary, I am deeply humbled by the commitment and self-sacrifice shown by you and your families and I would like to thank you again for your exceptional contribution so far.”