Abstract
This thesis focuses on the origins and development of the Quality of Service (QOS) initiative in the Police Service of England and Wales. Interlinked with the analysis of that initiative is an assessment of the police reforms which were introduced by government from 1993 onward. It is argued that the QOS initiative has become increasingly embroiled in the politics of police reform, and that the 'consumerist' dimension of quality has taken precedence over what might be termed a public sector 'professional' model. It is concluded that the centralisation of policing continues apace, and that this is inevitable given the need for the central state to augment its monitoring and surveillance capabilities. The empirical research itself entailed well over 100 interviews with senior staff in the policing environment, as well as a survey of Chief Inspectors and Superintendents in three participating forces.