Does high profile security work?
So, the London Underground gets increased high-profile Policing... Great!
But does it change anything?
I don't doubt that it will reduce crime IN GENERAL - I'm absolutely sure it will. I think all of us "law-abiding" citizens are only to pleased to see more Police on the streets. But make no mistake - the increased policing is not about crime - it's about terrorism. And will it have an effect on terrorism? I doubt it.
I am sure there will be many who feel an added sense of security about it, but conversely, I am certain some will find themselves in a state of increased nervous tension. Acts of terrorism are now so indiscriminate, I really cannot believe that high-profile policing will make an iota of difference.
Interestingly, I personally believe the real difference is being made by the exact opposite - very low profile surveillance and intelligence gathering. I feel our intelligence service is highly likely to be the finest in the world. And I think their success, ability and hard work goes unnoticed. And long may that continue!
I do LIKE the idea that we ALL take a little personal responsibility for security. I like the fact that we are being encouraged NOT to bury our heads in the samd and I think we should ALL take notice and SPEAK UP when we see something suspicious or out of the ordinary. If we see an unattended bag - SPEAK UP - "Is this anybody's bag???" How difficult is that? No - I really do like that idea and I think we all need to take that one on board.
Incidentally... I hope it never happens, but I've just been reading through the latest tranche of documents regarding the shake-up of the fire service... As you'd expected - most of it is retrogade in tems of what it offers "the workers" - FOR EXAMPLE;
At present, if we are "recalled to duty as a result of a serious incident" (such as an act of terrorism), after 3 hours we would be paid at double time for each hour and a full hour for a part hour worked. Under the new arrangements we'd only receive pay for COMPLETE PERIODS OF A QUARTER OF AN HOUR - it's great to feel valued!