It was also formerly awarded within the wider British Empire, including Commonwealth countries, most of which now have their own honours systems.

The medal was established on 7 July 1909,[3] initially inspired by the need to recognise the gallantry of the police officers involved in the Tottenham Outrage.

Between 1909 and 1979, the medal was bestowed 4,070 times, for both gallantry and distinguished service, including dominion and empire awards.

It was originally intended that the medal should be awarded once a year, to no more than 120 recipients, with a maximum of: 40 from the United Kingdom and Crown dependencies; 30 from the dominions; and 50 from the Indian Empire.

[3] Initially recipients were required to have shown: (a) Conspicuous gallantry in saving life and property, or in preventing crime or arresting criminals; the risks incurred to be estimated with due regard to the obligations and duties of the officer concerned.

(d) Special services in dealing with serious or widespread outbreaks of crime or public disorder, or of fire.

[9]In 1936, amendments of 25 May gave greater provision for territories to opt to award their own equivalent medals.

On 5 October 1992, Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating announced that Australia would make no further recommendations for British honours.

[19] Recipients may use the post-nominal letters QPM, KPM or KPFSM, as appropriate, although the right to use these was only granted officially on 20 July 1969.