MPs forced to step down from special constable role

Two MPs who volunteered as special constables for British Transport Police (BTP) have been forced to step down as a result of changes introduced in the police code of ethics.

The code of ethics, which was introduced by the College of Policing last year and sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all officers, states that special constables must not take any active part in politics to ensure impartiality.

This has resulted in Monmouth MP David Davies and Kettering MP Philip Hollobone stepping down from their roles. Mr Davies has worked as a special constable for nine years, volunteering once a fortnight, while Mr Hollobone has served with the force for six years.

BTP said it was “committed to adhering to the code of ethics as set down by the College of Policing”.

A spokesperson said: “The code states that ‘police officers must not take any active part in politics’. Unfortunately this means we have had to take the difficult step of asking two of our special constables, who are also MPs, to step down from their roles with BTP.

“This decision is in no way a reflection of the valuable role they have both played in helping to keep the travelling public safe and secure and we would like to thank them for their many hours of unpaid service.”

The College of Policing said the code of ethics makes it clear that police officers must not take any active part in politics.

“It is ultimately for individual chief constables to decide who can serve as a special constable,” a spokesperson for the college said.

“To inform their decision, chief constables must have regard to guidance on the eligibility of special constables, which clearly states that they must take into consideration whether a special constable’s involvement in party politics is such as to prejudice their role as a police officer.

“Chiefs must also have regard to the College of Policing code of ethics which sets out the principles of behaviour we expect to see from police professionals.”