HC Deb 21 October 1985 vol 84 c42W
Ms. Richardson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what policy he is adopting towards requests to equip women and men serving in the Metropolitan police force with martial arts batons.

Mr. Giles Shaw

I understand from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis that a number of new truncheons have been evaluated by the force but that none as yet has been selected as suitable for operational use. The Home Secretary's agreement to the issue of a new truncheon has therefore not been sought.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will detail the special equipment for riot control currently available to the Metropolitan police.

Mr. Giles Shaw

The special equipment currently available to the Metropolitan police consists of long shields, round shields, NATO helmets, flame-proof overalls, protective grilles for vehicles, and CS smoke and baton rounds.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what new equipment for riot control is currently being evaluated by the Metropolitan police force.

Mr. Giles Shaw

The Metropolitan police are considering a radio communications link for helmets, tape-recorders in helmets (for evidence-gathering), personal kit bags for riot equipment, breastplates for women officers, shin protectors, protective boots, first aid packs and long batons.