Peel's Metropolitan Police Force Flashcards
How did Peel create the MPF?
Through his 1829 Metropolitan Police Act
What was it created in response to?
The upward trend in crime rates, particularly in London
Why did Peel’s penal code reform necessitate the creation of the MPF?
The removal of so many capital offences had increased the crime rate, noticeably in London
What was Peel’s theory behind the creation of the MPF?
That a fully supported police force would act as a major crime deterrent
How did it get on at first?
It was not an immediate success
How did some people perceive it?
As a tool of the Tory government
Why was it an improvement on the previous system of law enforcement?
It had relied on parish constables and watchmen, and was often corrupt and had no cohesive, centralised maintenance of law and order
How did Peel implement it?
Gradually; A police commissioner at Scotland Yard reported back to the Home Office, and later extended to the provinces
How did it fare in the long term?
It took years to establish an efficient, effective nationwide police force, but it was ultimately a better method of maintaining public order and formed the basis of our modern policing system
Why were members issued with a set uniform?
It made them easily recognisable and gave them a sense of identity, confidence and purpose
