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“Representing the interests of 140,000 Constables, Sergeants, Inspectors and Chief Inspectors “
That is what it says on their website and that is what police constables sign up to when they pay their first subscription on joining the force. The idea is that, according to their booklet that each police constable receives right at the beginning of their service, the police federation will negotiate on their behalf and fight their corner in times of trouble.
The truth? Well just like everything else in public life in Britain, these are fine aims that don't actually meet up with reality. You name it, every area of public life in the UK is now pervaded by the no-blame culture. Who me guv, scream the politicians, bankers, social workers, police forces, etc etc., no guv it was not our fault. The first reaction of these people is to deny everything and try to deflect all criticism and blame away from them. They have, as amply outlined in the case of “Fred the Shred” of RBS fame, too much to protect along with their buddies who are also dipping their snouts in the gravy pot.
The Police Federation are no different. When Kristian was first accused, a rep from GMP federation came to see Kristian and told him, “don't worry son I will be with you every step of the way”. That was in April of 2007. The next time Kristian had any contact with the fed reps was after the trial in November 2008. Every step of the way eh? Hmmm.