Plans for new police helmet are `daft'

Plans to replace the traditional policeman's helmet with a "cycling hat" were criticised yesterday, with one police group claiming officers would not wear the controversial headgear. Police chiefs are considering a number of changes to uniform, with the helmet at the top of the list.

Plans include a curved helmet with a built-in eye shield and radio link."They are only proposals at the moment," said the Association of Chief Police Officers.

The proposals have drawn fierce criticism from the Metropolitan Police Federation. "It's daft," said a spokesman. The traditional helmet dates from 1863 and is based on a design used by the Prussian Army.