Police powers

On November 4, I raised the question of drinking alcohol in the precinct (not published).

Reading Chris Adam Smith on November 28 a similar theme crops up on cycling.

From what I’m given to understand, community policemen and women have no power beyond speaking to individuals and then, on occasion, telling them to clear off, but not always as polite as this. Is this true?

E. Benham

Gloucester Place

Littlehampton