If Police Commissioner Hardley Lewin has his way, members of the police force will be sporting a change of uniform before too long.

It is an idea that has been mooted before, but the new commissioner is desirous of having it implemented as a practical move and one that might save some cash.

Describing the current uniforms as too impractical, Admiral Lewin says "the serge looking trousers" are not suited to Jamaica's climate, while some of the accoutrements are expensive.

"We need a smart-looking piece of kit. Let us just be a professional police force and not a force where we want to have a sword and a sash and the ceremonial accoutrements. Get on with policing!"

To be phased-in

The commissioner would not say when he would seek to begin a phase-in of the new police uniforms, but made it clear that it was not one of his most pressing issues.

In the meantime, Admiral Lewin has indicated that, in addition to donning his commissioner's uniform shortly, he might also sport a new look, if required to do so. Questioned whether he would shave the beard he wore during his days in the military, he said he would willingly do so, if the rules governing his office required it.

"I will abide by the regulations of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. You can't have a commissioner who is flouting the constabulary force regulations. It is bad for discipline!"

He said, however, that he had not yet ascertained what the regulations said about a commissioner wearing a beard, but pointed out that detectives were permitted to do so.

Superintendent Cornwall 'Bigga' Ford, one of the country's most popular cops, is known for his distinctive look, complete with a substantial beard.

- E.M.