The Ministry of Defence Police (Conduct) Regulations 2004

General conduct

13.  Whether on or off duty, members of the force should not behave in a way which is likely to bring discredit upon the police service.

Notes:—

(a) The primary duties of those who hold the office of constable in the force are the protection of life and property, the preservation of the Queen’s peace, and the prevention and detection of criminal offences. To fulfil these duties they are granted extraordinary powers; the public and the police service therefore have the right to expect the highest standards of conduct from them.

(b) This Code sets out the principles which guide the conduct of members of the force. It does not seek to restrict their discretion: rather it aims to define the parameters of conduct within which that discretion should be exercised. However, it is important to note that any breach of the principles in this Code may result in action being taken by the force, which, in serious cases, could involve dismissal.

(c) This Code applies to the conduct of members of the force in all ranks whilst on duty, or whilst off duty if the conduct is serious enough to indicate that a member is not fit to be a member of the force. It will be applied in a reasonable and objective manner. Due regard will be paid to the degree of negligence or deliberate fault and to the nature and circumstances of a member’s conduct. Where off duty conduct is in question, this will be measured against the generally accepted standards of the day.