Bobbies on the beat will for the first time have to pass an exam to get a pay rise.

The move will end the tradition that only length of service determines the salary of police constables.

The new scheme will mean that PCs with between two and four years’ service will be examined on how they support victims, carry out searches, and interview suspects.

Bobbies on the beat will for the first time have to pass an exam to get a pay rise

If they pass, their pay will rise from £24,975 to £26,016, but if they fail they will have to work on a development plan with their superior officers.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said: ‘Establishing this first link between what constables are paid and their ongoing professional development will help officers continue to improve, and maintain the highest possible standards.’

However, the plan is likely to face resistance from rank-and-file officers. A spokesman for the Police Federation of England and Wales said last night: ‘In our view there is still a way to go before we have an assessment process that is fit for purpose.

‘It must be transparent, fair and attainable for all officers – not an attempt to keep down pay by setting the bar artificially high.’