How can the police be expected to carry out the job (Police top brass come under fire, Croydon Guardian letters, October 25) with petty restrictions inflicted on police power?

Stop and search, for example, could result in an accusation of racism. As far as I am concerned, if a citizen commits a serious crime, they forfeit their rights.

I have heard youngsters say "the police can't do anything, they're not allowed to". They know their so-called rights so well, thanks to the politicians! It must be so frustrating for police personnel.

I think we have a very effective police force if given the backing of politicians to carry out the full power of the law and therefore, do the job for which they were trained. More power to them.

AUDREY TERREY received by email