Sky News Australia host James Macpherson has responded to Brisbane police being told to consider alternative options to arresting criminals.

The Brisbane city watch house is running at half capacity due to water works which has triggered the bombshell memo to police.

“Like what do you give him a stern talking to?” Mr Macpherson said.

“Do you glare at him?

“Do you say to the criminals look normally we’d arrest you but today we’re going to get you to tell us what you think should happen to you.

“You could not make this up.”