|
If you've been to the RAF Fairford area to watch visiting aircraft
you will no doubt have seen members of the Ministry of Defence
Police patrolling both inside and outside the base's perimeter
fence. They are the MOD's own civil police force who have full
constabulary powers and are assigned to combat the principle risks
of crime and disorder faced by the MOD. They also contribute
where possible to the local community by increasing the police
presence within Fairford town and it's surrounding villages.
Outside of RAF Fairford they will make sure that anyone watching
aircraft is parked sensibly and is neither causing a danger to
themselves or others. While some parts of the base seem quiet
they could at times be used by military or rescue vehicles, or trucks
associated with nearby quarries so what may seem like a quiet spot
could very quickly turn busy. Additionally the police will
check that people around the perimeter fence appear genuine and pose
no threat to the base. People who regularly visit RAF Fairford
become familiar faces and often chat with the passing police
officers about the weather and life as the English do!
If someone isn't recognised by an officer or is doing something that
needs explanation the individual maybe asked to help the officer
complete a record of any conversation they have. This procedure was a
recommendation (No 61) of the Stephen Lawrence Enquiry and asks for
some basic details to be recorded about the individual. A copy of the form is
given to the person and a second filed in the police office. The
purpose of it is to make a record of the conversation having
happened, NOT to gain
information about the person it was with.
Being given the form does not suggest you have
done anything illegal, it is mandatory for the officer to fill it in
and you should not worry about being asked to help complete one.
By helping to efficiently complete the form you will be doing your
part in implementing a new national guideline designed to make the
policing within England more open and accountable.
More information about the MoD
Police can be found here:
MoD Police
|