Some people deserve to get shot. Or do they? I bet you have, at some time in your life, wanted to do a 'Dirty Harry' and send a miscreant to kingdom come. Is it time for British police officers to be armed?

This very interesting and enthralling debate has been simmering under the surface of the blog for some considerable time now. Our very good friend, Locked & Loaded, believes that it is time for British coppers to be fully tooled-up in order to blast hoodlums to kingdom come.

On the other hand, our new and well-respected contributor, Blackrat, has other ideas.

I will put my cards on the table and tell you that if intruders broke into Piggott Place, I would have no hesitation in killing them if they threatened to mortally wound Lady P. or my good self, no matter what the consequences.

What do YOU think about British coppers being armed? Does it ever cross your mind that if the cozzers are ordered to carry firearms, the villains will have no choice but to purchase overcoats with very deep inside pockets after coming to the conclusion that if the fuzz is playing Harry Callaghan ...?

Oh, and how far would you go if you discovered a burglar in your house? Would you shoot to kill?

I am looking forward to a very interesting debate, so please go ahead - MAKE MY DAY!

Erastus

PS: I haven't forgotten about Part 8, so please don't get withdrawal symptoms