§ 12. Mr. Goodhartasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty what steps are under consideration for equipping the amphibious task forces with non-lethal weapons.
§ Mr. C. Ian Orr-EwingStocks of dye-spray guns, tear gas and batons are available for issue to units employed on internal security duties.
The effectiveness of riot control measures will be increased by troop-carrying helicopters which are also equipped to dispense tear gas.
§ Mr. GoodhartIs my hon. Friend aware that important new non-lethal weapons are reaching an advanced stage of development? Is it not a fact that they could be particularly useful in the sort of confused circumstances in which our amphibious forces might be called upon to intervene?
§ Mr. Orr-EwingI have noted my hon. Friend's point. I hope to make a visit to the establishment in due course and have a look at it myself.