In the Dixon of Dock Green era of British policing, all constables needed to defend themselves from attack was their trusty truncheons.

But in the half century since, this country has become steadily more violent and police need more protection.

Now, all Sussex police officers are to be issued with stab proof vests and there's a debate over whether they should be made compulsory.

Most officers are not threatened with being stabbed or shot in the course of their everyday duties.

Despite a vast increase in crime over the years, Sussex is still largely a law-abiding county.

Even the town and city centres are not full of the sort of violence that this week saw two girls shot dead in Birmingham.

But it's right that officers should be offered the protection of body armour when they do have to confront someone who might be violent.

Body armour is awkward and uncomfortable. Many officers feel they lose mobility when wearing it.

Police chiefs are sensible to give officers the choice now about whether to wear stab proof vests or whether to rely on other forms of defence.

Sadly, the day may dawn within the next decade when Sussex becomes so violent that the issue of protective clothing becomes compulsory.