LOOKBACK
demonstrations often escalated into violent confrontations, placing the police in challenging positions. Callaghan’s work during these times emphasised maintaining public order while ensuring that policing methods remained proportionate. His prior association with the Police Federation informed his understanding of the pressures faced by officers on the ground.
a Labour government trudged towards a general election defeat many believed was inevitable. Callaghan declined an invitation to that year’s Federation conference, commenting acerbically in a letter to Federation Chairman James Jardine: “There is now no pleasure in attending
“Now Prime Minister, Callaghan
PRIME MINISTERIAL CONCERNS: THE SHADOW OF A POLICE STRIKE As the economic boom of the 1950s and the technologically fired optimism of the 1960s gave way to the grim reality of the 1970s, Callaghan faced mounting challenges, including economic downturns and widespread industrial action. Now Prime Minister, Callaghan tried
to tread a delicate balance between support for the Federation’s aims and the mounting crisis in which his government found itself. It’s fair to say the relationship was strained to breaking point in 1978, as
tried to tread a delicate balance between support for the Federation’s aims and the mounting crisis in which his government found itself.”
a Police Federation Conference. I think the behaviour of some of the Federation delegates in recent years to the Home Secretary has been a disgrace to the Service... I know that you and the JCC do not condone scenes on television of delegates reading newspapers or jeering and shouting during the speech of a guest, but unfortunately you do not seem to be able to prevent it.”
LEGACY AND REFLECTIONS James Callaghan’s relationship with the Police Federation was emblematic of his broader political approach: pragmatic, informed by firsthand experience, and attuned to the complexities of governance. His tenure witnessed significant legislative changes and societal shifts, with the police often at the intersection of these transformations. For today’s police officers,
Callaghan’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue between policymakers and law enforcement representatives. His efforts to understand
and address the concerns of the Police Federation underscore the value of collaboration in navigating the ever- evolving landscape of public service. As we mark his centenary, it’s fitting to
acknowledge the nuanced and impactful relationship James Callaghan fostered with the Police Federation—a relationship that left an indelible mark on British policing history.
Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter Host a State Dinner for Great Britain’s Prime Minister
44 | POLICE | JUNE | 2025
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