Qatari police cadets have been out and about on the streets of Manchester this summer to learn more about community policing from British officers.

The link-up is part of an ongoing agreement between the two countries.

As part of that deal, Qatar has paid the Greater Manchester Police to help train its officers in advance of the 2022 World Cup.

Criticism

The agreement has apparently drawn criticism in the UK by those concerned with a Qatar partnership.

However, Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd defended the deal by saying:

“Because of Qatar’s lamentable human rights record, I did not take the decision to approve this contract lightly, and made sure to consult widely not least with the Independent Ethics Committee.

On balance it is an appropriate and ethical step to take. If we can educate and improve policing in other countries, for the good of its citizens, then that should be welcomed.”

Thoughts?