Tattooed police told to cover up or face sack (From Times Series)

Tattooed Metropolitan Police officers told to cover up or face sack

11:10am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News By Chris Hewett

Tattooed police officers in the capital have been ordered to cover up or face the sack.

Scotland Yard Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe has told Metropolitan Police officers they must hide unsightly tattoos over fears the force is becoming “thuggish”.

Officers with artwork on their hands, neck or face must declare their body ink in the next few weeks.

Commissioner Hogan Howe says visible tattoos “damage the professional image” of the service but critics argue the views are old fashioned.

Are you a Met Police officer? Contact the news desk anonymously on 07824530136 or email chewett@london.newsquest.co.uk and let us know what you think.