Metropolitan Police Police Identity Numbers

[Mervyn Mitton]

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_09_2014/post-6209-0-02262200-1410108241.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_09_2014/post-6209-0-97021000-1410108387.jpgclick

The early Metropolitan Police wore a blue frock coat with swallowtails. The Officer's number

was embroidered on either side of the collar, which stood-up the side of the neck. The numbering

system had commenced with the first constables who had marched out of New Scotland Yard in 1829.

London was beset with riots in the mid 19th Century and in 1855 a very serious one took place at

Hyde Park (central London) When everything had settled a number of complaints were made

concerning excessive force by the Police. A Commission of enquiry was set-up but could not make

much justification for the claims - however, it was established that the embroidered numbers on the tunics were blocking a clear view of the number. They were ordered to be discontinued and from that date

they were plain metal numerals made from a type of coin metal. They are always chromed today as

shown in the pair for the last of the Met's ceremonial uniforms. They were discontinued in 1971.

[Mervyn Mitton]

English , Welsh and Scottish Police have worn identification numerals for many years , I wwonder how many of you knew the time scale for their change ?