Traditionally, the tit-heads are much better than American cops, and actually help some of the people (including tourists). My ex once stayed at a hostel in the UK where she was to engrossed in her book to realise that they had already closed the gates. One of the plod found her prowling around the place, looking for a way in, and after she explained what she was doing, he said "come with me" and rang the bell until the staff answered and yelled "this is the police", and when they opened the gate, he stood aside and basically said "this way please". My experiences with German cops, despite the scary guns they often carry were equally as professional.