No action over uniform breach allegations - union

Nine newly-qualified officers were accused of failing to follow the dress code at a graduation ceremony in York

Nine police recruits will not face a misconduct process over an alleged breach of uniform policy, the officers' union has said.

The new officers had taken part in the force's graduation ceremony in York on 26 September, but "failed to follow the dress code" despite being warned about their appearance on the day, according to North Yorkshire Police.

They were handed what are known as Regulation 17 notices, which are served on police officers who are the subject of a potential misconduct investigation.

However, the Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, confirmed action would not be pursued after "constructive discussions" had been held with the Chief Constable.

A spokesperson for the federation said: "These officers were served with misconduct notices following alleged breaches of dress and appearance policy during what should have been one of the proudest days of their careers - their graduation, which was attended by Chief Constable Tim Forber.

"While we fully support the importance of maintaining high professional standards across policing, we felt the action taken was disproportionate given the circumstances and should have been handled differently."

Conduct regulations were designed to promote a culture of "learning and reflection", rather than to punish officers for what they believed had been "minor uniform matters", the spokesperson said.

'Just outcome'

At the time of the ceremony, posts on social media claimed the nine officers were among a cohort of 32 who were pulled up for wearing make-up, nail varnish, non-issue trousers and hair which was loose rather than tied back.

North Yorkshire Police previously said claims of reprimands regarding make-up and nail polish were "inaccurate", but would not provide further detail about the alleged breaches.

North Yorkshire Police Federation said it had supported the affected officers and their families during the period the matter was being investigated.

The federation spokesperson said the organisation had "worked tirelessly" with those involved and had explored "every available avenue to secure a just outcome".

"We therefore welcome the constructive discussions we have had with the Chief Constable on this issue to ensure members' voices were heard, to highlight the impact on the officers involved and to work towards a fair and proportionate resolution," they said.

"We also welcome the thoughtful tone of those discussions, in particular Mr Forber acknowledging that, with hindsight, a different 'reflective' path may have been taken.

"And, ultimately, we are pleased with the outcome that the officers will not face a misconduct process."

North Yorkshire Police said it had no further comment to make on the matter.

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