2 - peel and the setting up of the metropolitan police force in 1829.

History

What did the Metropolitan Police Act of 1829 do?

It established a professional, full-time police force in London under Robert Peel, the Home Secretary.

What were the main objectives of the Metropolitan Police?

Investigate crime

Patrol the streets

Prevent crime

Apprehend criminals

What were London police officers commonly called, and why?

‘Peelers’ or ‘Bobbies’, named after Robert Peel, their founder.

Who were the first Commissioners of the Metropolitan Police?

Charles Rowan and Richard Mayne.

Where was the headquarters of the new police force?

Scotland Yard in Westminster.

What was the original coverage area of the Metropolitan Police in 1829?

A 7-mile radius divided into 17 districts, each with 144 constables.

What were the recruitment requirements for a Metropolitan Police constable in 1829?

Must be able to read and write

Be under 35 years old

Be at least 5 feet 7 inches tall

What did a Metropolitan Police constable wear?

Blue jacket

White trousers

Tall white hat

What equipment did early constables carry?

A truncheon and a rattle (to call for assistance).

How many days a week did a constable work, and what was their duty?

7 days a week, patrolling a designated area.

What did the Metropolitan Police Act of 1839 do?

Extended the force's coverage to a 15-mile radius from Charing Cross.

Brought the River Police and Horse Patrol into the Metropolitan Police.

How did the Metropolitan Police change in the second half of the 19th century?

Expanded in size.

From 1850, overseen by one commissioner.

By 1900, had 16,000 officers in 21 divisions.