Q&A: Digital ID mission creep, scrapping the 43 forces & are the CPS friend or foe?
The Crime AgentsSummary
The debate surrounding digital IDs in society raises questions about privacy, security, and the potential for abuse. Neil Basu, a former police officer, argues that while digital IDs could enhance security and reduce online threats, concerns about privacy persist, particularly among those who value anonymity. He acknowledges that many people are accustomed to forms of digital identification, such as driving licenses and passports, and believes that requiring identification could deter individuals from making anonymous threats online. However, he also notes the astronomical costs associated with implementing a digital ID scheme in the UK, which may hinder its feasibility.
In a separate discussion, the relationship between the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the police is explored, highlighting a historical tension stemming from the CPS's role in ensuring objective charging decisions. Basu explains that while the CPS can be seen as a necessary independent partner, frustrations arise when police officers feel their evidence is insufficient for charges. He emphasizes the need for better collaboration and communication between the two entities, especially in light of resource constraints that impact case handling.
The conversation also touches on the proposal to merge the UK's 43 police forces into larger regional units, which could address inconsistencies and improve operational efficiency. Basu points out that while some chief constables may resist such changes, many recognize the benefits of a more unified approach to policing. Finally, a listener inquires about pursuing a career in law enforcement at the age of 30, to which Basu reassures that life experience is valuable in policing, and many new recruits are indeed over 30.
Show Notes
When MPs talk about the death threats they face online, are they making a genuine plea for protection or building the case for something bigger? Andy and Neil take on the question of whether the abuse politicians face is being used to push the digital ID agenda, and where that leaves free speech. Would digital ID actually stop the threats? And what does Neil - a former head of UK Counter-Terrorism Policing - make of the idea that online anonymity is the real problem? Then to something that decides whether justice gets done at all: the relationship between the police and the Crown Prosecution Service. How closely do the two work during an investigation, when does the CPS actually get involved, and what happens when detectives are convinced they have enough to charge and the CPS disagrees? Are the CPS a friend to the police - or a foe? Plus: Sir Mark Rowley wants the 43 police forces of England and Wales merged into fewer, larger regional ones. Is that a serious fix, or asking turkeys to vote for Christmas when Chief Constables would be voting themselves out of a job? And last but not least: is 30 too old to become a police officer? And can a career as a detective ever fit around raising a family? Have a question for a future Q&A? Send it via email to [email protected] or follow us on social media: @thecrimeagents The Crime Agents is a Global production, available every Monday and Thursday on Global Player, YouTube or wherever you get your shows. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode.
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