Well this is going to be a bit vague so I hope someone who knows more will be able to help.
But for question 1 I am pretty sure the answer is yes he would have been able to join. These days I think you have to have been convicted of a crime yourself to be denied (http://policerecruitment.homeoffice.gov.uk/police-officer/am-i-eligible/index.html) but I am sure there is more detailed info out there.
However I do not know what it would have been like in the seventies or other time periods.
So as I said not much help, sorry.
EDIT: and I see that others have helpd out now, so just going to add that this sounds very intriguing and can't wait to see where this is going for your BB story.
no subject
But for question 1 I am pretty sure the answer is yes he would have been able to join. These days I think you have to have been convicted of a crime yourself to be denied (http://policerecruitment.homeoffice.gov.uk/police-officer/am-i-eligible/index.html) but I am sure there is more detailed info out there.
However I do not know what it would have been like in the seventies or other time periods.
So as I said not much help, sorry.
EDIT: and I see that others have helpd out now, so just going to add that this sounds very intriguing and can't wait to see where this is going for your BB story.