F-2009-01456

I was interested in a recent article in the Lincolnshire Echo (http://www.bit.ly/baRYp) concerning your force's change of uniform.

I would like more information about the change of uniform by your force. However, I am unsure as to what documentation you may hold.

Pursuant to Section 10 of FOI Code of Practice:

"providing an outline of the different kinds of information which might meet the terms of the request;

providing access to detailed catalogues and indexes, where these are available, to help the applicant ascertain the nature and extent of the information held by the authority"

Would you please be kind enough to provide me a 'detailed catalogue' of materials held that you feel is relevant to the change of uniform.

I would imagine this catalogue would include by not limited to:

*Reports of field tests of new police uniforms * Specification of uniform/design brief etc. * Results of questionnaires given to police officers concerning new/old uniforms. * Quotes received from suppliers concerning supply of new uniforms * Decisions making process involved in changing uniforms (managerial meeting minutes, public feedback)

Reply

Reports of field tests of new police uniforms

The proposed shirt and trousers have been trialled by operational officers at a Division with all uniformed staff being invited to take part in a survey regarding the suitability of current police uniform.

The shirt and trousers are worn by other Forces nationwide where other trials have been conducted.

Specification of uniform/design brief etc

The garments should match the requirements of modern day policing. The trousers should be of a material that is washable and the fabric of the shirt should be of a content that it is `breathable' when worn under body armour. The desired shirt colour is black and the same for the trousers.

Results of questionnaires given to police officers

The white shirts, which are currently worn, are uncomfortable under body armour and remain damp and cling to the body when body armour is removed. The personal protective equipment issued is of a good standard and suitable for today's environment. The helmets and hats are suitable for today's policing environment. Officers would like to have a tunic and matching trousers for attending Crown Court and special ceremonies and events that they are required to police.

Quotes received from suppliers

The Force has set up a Programme board to manage the process of procurement and issue of uniform. Decisions were made by the board members to utilise two contracts already in existence with other Force's in order to speed up the process and deliver the uniform within a suitable time scale.

Other information

Nothing specific to report on.

Lincolnshire Police in complying with their statutory duty under sections 1 and 11 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 to release the enclosed information will not breach the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. However, the rights of the copyright owner of the enclosed information will continue to be protected by law.  Applications for the copyright owner's written permission to reproduce any part of the attached information should be addressed to The Force Solicitor, Lincolnshire Police, PO Box 999, Lincoln LN5 7PH