The debate on control of the police in the 1980's follows very closely arguments put forth in the 1960's. However, more attention is now being paid to policing as a political issue due to police involvement in public disorders and police practices during rioting in Manchester and Yorkshire and during the 1984-1985 miner's strike. Over the years, debate on control of or influence over police has turned on the distinction between operational matters and administration. The line taken by successive police chiefs since 1962 is that law enforcement, manpower deployment, and policy and procedure are the sole responsibility of the chief constable who is impartial and nonpartisan. Administration (payment, housing, equipment) have been seen as matters for political control both at central and government levels. The prevention of party political manipulation, greater community representation, and the use of consultative commitees appear to be practical means for increasing both public participation and police accountability. Index, chapter notes, and 145 references.