MPS black uniforms

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.22.023474

I note you seek access to the following information:

From a historical perspective the London Metropolitan Police is considered the first real police force, and when it was established in 1829, officers were given dark blue garments to wear because British soldiers were already wearing red and white during this era, blue was picked to distinguish cops from the military.

Question 1
Why did the Metropolitan Police decide to abandon the Blue uniforms and change them to Black?
Especially considering when authoritarian enforcement agencies, such as the Nazi SS worn Black.

There was a traditional reason, as well: just as the Prussian king's and emperor's life-guard cavalry (Leibhusaren) had worn black uniforms with skull-and-crossbones badges, so would the Führer's bodyguard unit. These SS uniforms were tailored to project authority and foster fear.

Even a Conservative MP described the Police as having “a kind of fascist, militaristic appearance”. The thin blue line should be re-named.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/4300018.stm

Given the recent resignation of Dame Cressida Dick, the ever increasing number of incidents of serving police constables and subsequent misconduct hearings...

Question 2
Does the Metropolitan Police have any plans to return to a Blue uniform?
And/or a traditional styles of policing?

This might be worth serious consideration given the increasing mistrust and divide between the police and the public.

Might I also make a suggestion of revisiting past indiscretions of questionable policing, specifically the case and history of 'Rhino whip' by South Yorkshire Police in the 1950/60's.
A similar zero tolerance and clean slate policy may be the key to improve the reputation of the Metropolitan Police and its future with the British public.

Food for thought.

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

Q1 - Why did the Metropolitan Police decide to abandon the Blue uniforms and change them to Black?

The move to from blue to black was to align with the national uniform strategy. Most other forces wear black uniform and have for some years so this move allows us to share procurement and we can take advantage of buying in large volumes and then sharing the stock across forces. The economies of scale provides better value for money against taxpayer funding.

Q2 - Does the Metropolitan Police have any plans to return to a Blue uniform?
And/or a traditional styles of policing?

There are no current plans to revert to blue uniform.

With regards to your question on the MPS styles of policing may I refer you to the MPS Long Term Strategy