§ Mr. Leightonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in what circumstances police are allowed to use truncheons; and which parts of the body they are allowed to hit with truncheons.
§ Mr. Giles ShawA police officer may use reasonable force to defend himself from attack and to exercise a lawful power. Decisions on the use of force including the use of truncheons, are operational matters for decision according to the circumstances which the officers face. Chief officers have issued guidance that truncheons should be used to the minimum extent necessary in the circumstances and should not be aimed at the head.