Policeman criticised for describing motorist as 'matronly'

A policeman who described a buxom female motorist as 'matronly' in an official report has been criticised by a complaints panel.

The officer from West Midlands Police was rebuked by superiors on the force's Professional Standards and Quality Committee (PSQC) after they examined a complaint made against him by the woman.

His comment was described as "unprofessional and inappropriate" language.



The Collins English Dictionary says the word "matronly" describes a woman 'of a staid and dignified manner, association with middle-aged, usually plump, women'.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said the term matronly was used to describe 'how the woman had behaved' when she was pulled over and was not said to her in person.

He said: "The term matronly (was used) to describe the woman's demeanour."