Are the BT Police really necessary?

摘要

Whilst the article Crossing the Line (March) was interesting, it begs the question as to whether such a separate force as British Transport Police is still necessary. The officers featured in the article seemed to be as interested in off-rail incidents as much as specific railway problems. Surely, normal local forces can be trusted to police the public in such circumstances, with the Railway Inspectorate assisting where specialist knowledge is requred? Airports, coach stations and docks are policed by local forces. Misbehaviour on a plane at Heathrow is handled by the Met.