'Honest debate' on police direct entry needed

The Home Office today publishes its plans for consultation on police direct entry in England & Wales.

At the moment, anyone who wants to be a police officer has to start at the bottom, as a constable. But ministers have accepted recommendations put forward by Tom Winsor, in a review of policing last year, that candidates should be able to apply at the higher entry points of inspector, superintendent and chief constable.

Ann Barnes, independent PCC for Kent, welcomes the prospect: "I'm certainly in favour of having a look at any way to get fresh blood... into the police service in England," she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

"They bring fresh ideas."

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on 30th January 2013.