> Is arresting someone for (what fact about?) their scooter actually making society better?

In London people are scooters are often mildly annoying.

>Comments like these reinforce my belief that the UK is a panopticon because UK residents sincerely want one and not because the government is corrupt.

You are correct, despite what you will see on HN/reddit the UK electorate are united only in wanting more authoritarianism at any cost.