HC Deb 31 July 1980 vol 989 cc1722-3
17. Mr. Straw

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many days were lost in 1979 by police officers in the Metropolitan Police arising from injuries sustained (a) controlling sports crowds, (b) controlling demonstrations, (c) while on police motor cycles, (d) while in police cars and (e) off duty, from sports and games.

Mr. Brittan

A total of 1,659 days were lost through injuries sustained while controlling crowds. Separate figures are not available in respect of sports crowds and demonstrations. The figures for (c), (d) and (e) were 7,849, 8,096 and 9,633 respectively.

Mr. Straw

While violence against the police in any circumstances is to be condemned, does the Minister agree that the figures prove that violence to the police from sports crowds is far less of a problem than many of the more histrionic representatives of the police suggest? Does he agree that days lost as a result of those injuries amount to less than a fifth of the days lost as a result of police falling from motor cycles or being involved in road accidents? Does he agree that the figures provide no justification for the suggestion that the right to demonstrate should be restricted?

Mr. Brittan

I do not think it fair or proper to compare accidents with deliberate acts occurring in the context of crowds and demonstrations. Of course, I accept that the balance between the rights of the individual to demonstrate and the rights of the public to go about their business in peace is a delicate one. It is precisely for that reason that consideration is being given to the public order law.

Mr. Stanbrook

Is my hon. and learned Friend aware that everyone applauds the generosity of the public towards my constituent PC Stephen Hickling who lost his hand in a recent incident? However, is my hon. and learned Friend satisfied that policemen generally are generously treated when they are injured on duty?

Mr. Brittan

On the whole, the existing arrangements are acceptable. If my hon. Friend has particular cases in mind in which he thinks matters have not worked out satisfactorily, I should naturally want to look into them.

Mr. Alexander W. Lyon

Does the Minister accept that a serious public question arises about control of the police in relation to issues of principle like this and many others that we have discussed today, which can be resolved only by giving greater democratic control over the police through the police authorities?

Mr. Brittan

No, Sir.