Yessir wrote:.
Shootist can a plod just randomly stop an average dude in street and get him to empty his pockets?, lift his shirt etc?.
Technically no (there are exceptions. There are always exceptions). The stop and search powers are actually a power introduced, for all practical purposes, to prevent a police officer having to arrest you in order to search you. The degree of suspicion required to bring a stop and search is the same as would be required for an arrest. There has to be some suspicion that a police officer could explain to an independent third person to justify the search. In practical terms, if a bobby tips you over and finds something then that will justify any suspicion he might later invent. If he doesn't he still has bullshit on his side, and most people will not make any formal complaint, let alone start legal action. Such searches cover only pockets and outer clothing, and under your hat. Or something very much similar. I can't remember the details now.
The exceptions are a bit vague from memory. There is a power for a senior officer to declare a special exercise limited to a specific area and for a specific time where anyone can be searched without specific reason. It is allegedly common practice that officers will quite this power to the person searched in spite of the fact that it has not been authorised. Mainly used / abused in city areas. The Misuse Of Drugs Act also provides powers but IIRC there has to be a justifiable reason.
One trick on a routine stop of a vehicle is to ask to look in the boot of your car. No reason is offered for this. If you decline, which you are entitled to do, (assuming you have ID and it's your motor) then the police officer will most likely become 'suspicious' and say he's exercising his stop and search powers. This he can't do (legally, but that doesn't stop them) because there is no justification in you standing upon your rights. Consider the consequences of you having forgotten that lock knife that chucked in the boot a week ago. Find that and you could well be facing a charge which you will not be able to defend.
Another point for debate. I believe quite a few police officers carry locking knives while on duty. I would suggest that they are breaking the law doing so. They will bleat that they need them to rescue trapped drivers, or cut down suicides and are therefore justified. Bollocks they are. There are far more suitable things for them to carry for such purposes, but then they won't nearly as macho and butch.
If you don't have to give up your car because other people commit crimes in their cars, why should I have to give up my firearms because other people commit crimes with their firearms?