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My column is only prejudiced when it isn’t complimentary

Vic Barlow
15/ 2/2006

CHESHIRE Police Authority do not like Barlow's Brief. They consider the content to be 'prejudiced' against the police, a claim they never made when I wrote: 'Our Chief Constable has been as good as his word but, perhaps most importantly, he has impressed the rank and file, which is a task beyond most senior officers.'

There was no complaint when I wrote: 'One cannot doubt the sincerity and commitment of senior officers.' Nothing prejudicial about that.

When I berated magistrates for not protecting police officers kicked and abused by mindless thugs everything was fine and dandy.

Only when my column is less than complimentary does it become 'prejudice'. I understand the Police Authority would like me to regurgitate the official line but that's not my role.

When serving police officers call me in total frustration and residents write to express their concern I must reflect their views.

So, I'm sorry Cheshire Police Authority don't like my column but if they'd care to have a word with Mr Kippen who was refused emergency help to enter his burgled home or the girls left for 50 minutes at the mercy of a gunman they may get a different opinion.

• THE views expressed on this page are those of Vic Barlow and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Express.