Police standards

sir – Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, is concerned that some officers continue to serve despite the fact that they have criminal convictions (report, October 17). It has been reported that, across the country, people convicted of offences including theft, assault, fraud and possession of drugs have been allowed to join the force.

When I joined in the late 1960s, not only did I have to pass the entrance examination, along with medical and physical tests, but I also had to be of good character – as did my wife and parents.

Frederick Crowley

Bishop’s Nympton, Devon