Editorial: The absurd laxity of Britain's police Perhaps the most striking example of all is the ruling that officers with a history of sexual or financial misconduct may no longer become chief constables. Is it really possible that, until now, such a background was no bar to advancement? Apparently so. And yet two candidates in last year's Police Commissioner elections were forced to withdraw because of minor offences committed in early youth. Full marks to Theresa May for her attempts to tackle such preposterous laxity; not a moment too soon.