Yes, 'cos German is the international language, isn't it.

Sorry, but that has no relevance.

I was 2 days into CH and looking for a Swisscom shop I asked a policeman for directions. Note this was in central Basel in a pedestrian area.

My first words were (in broken German): "Excuse me, do you speak French or English?"

His answer: "Nein, wir sind in Basel, wir sprechen Deutch..." (excuse typos!)

He then proceeded to be completely unhelpful as I tried desperately in bad German to try and get directions.

Grade 1 prick.

Subsequent dealings with them over the past 12 years have not improved much.

@ the OP. Sorry to hear about your shitty experience. Unfortunately, the police in CH are not there to "serve and protect" as the LAPD have it. And are not as friendly or helpful as the UK Bobby. Rather they are here to enforce the law. Remember that when dealing with them and you'll be fine.