by political editor Paul Francis

The uniforms worn by Kent Police should be changed to make them less "paramilitary", according to the Conservative candidate who wants to become the county's first elected police commissioner.

Craig Mackinlay said the uniforms resembled those worn by soldiers in Kosovo and could be one of the reasons the public felt intimidated by the police.

Mr Mackinlay made his comments at the official launch of his campaign to become commissioner during a question and answer session with supporters at Maidstone's County Hall.

He also said he favoured stronger protection for homeowners protecting their property from intruders.

"My personal view is that anybody who crosses into your home has lost their human rights and it is for the homeowner to do pretty much as he pleases."

He was asked to account for why the public felt distrustful of the police and what could be done to restore trust.

Mr Mackinlay, pictured left, replied: "Get them out of these paramilitary uniforms when they do not need to be in them," adding that they resembled uniforms worn by soldiers in places such as Kosovo.

He later explained he felt the uniforms worn by police on patrol could be one reason why the public did not feel confident about approaching them.

"On the streets of Vigo or Lenham or Biddenden or wherever, do we really need these military-style uniforms? For a lot of day-to-day policing, I don't think it is required. We are losing the relationship between the law-abiding majority who want to feel protected and want to love the police.

"Mr Mackinlay recalled an incident in which he had come across two Kent Police constables in full uniform late at night in a takeaway restaurant.

"I asked them if there was some kind of riot or disorder going on and they said 'no, but it's tough out there.'"

Many police on patrol wear black load vests, used to carry batons, deterrent spray, handcuffs and radios as well as first aid kits.