The problem with the police force is the same as for the NHS as far as criticism is concerned. In other words, it's political suicide to publicly criticise them as a body, whether that criticism is justified or not.
All sections of the public sector need to realise that the music has stopped and life is very different. They need to be more efficient, accept that they can't retire on a full (and pretty generous) pension at as young as 38 or so, and accept the overall principle for change. That goes for rozzers, NHS staff, teachers and yes, the Armed Forces too.