A shakeup in police recruitment will lift the ban on anyone joining the force above the rank of constable to boost the numbers of women and ethnic minority officers.

Targets to boost the recruitment and promotion of women together with the introduction of more family-friendly hours are also planned. And there will be exercises to encourage people from ethnic minorities with successful careers in other professions to join the senior ranks of the police.
But Home Office ministers have rejected demands for positive discrimination, saying this would not increase trust and confidence in any section of the community.