what supposed "free" western country wins the "award" for worst police state?

Depends on your definition. In my books USA and UK are way ahead of us. However when you factor in covid, then Canada is near the top of the list.

well, the top three are really close...

Canada 28.5% (155)
USA 28.5% (155)
Australia 25.4% (138)

The UK (England, as per the ignorant OP) is definitely THE most surveilled country outside of the Commie/Totalitarian bloc.

There are MOAR street cameras than people!

i really don't give a shit about the differences between uk, great Britain and england. enjoy your shit hole.

Also, it is best to avoid cops, if you are in the UK.

The vast majority of them are now tattooed Wokesters, and ex-criminals (like in the movie, "A Clockwork Orange") and are mostly dumb as fuck.

Don't get involved with them, if possible.

Back in my day (I'm almost 70) the police were actually well-respected members of the community, and looked-out for their communities. They actually patrolled the streets in twos, walking, not in cars.

No longer, sadly.

Your loss, then.

Ignorant twat.

i didn't say i didn't know the differences. i said i didn't give a shit about them.