§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department on what authority individuals have been prevented from peaceful demonstrations immediately outside the South African embassy; and why this was done.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI understand that the Commissioner directed that the demonstration be moved from outside the South African embassy to Duncannon street following an incident on 6 May when the embassy building was attacked and damaged. This direction was made under the Metropolitan Police Act 1839.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what has been the total cost of police services outside the South African embassy in each of the past three years; and what has been the cost since 6 May.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI understand that the additional cost to the Metropolitan Police of policing demonstrations outside South Africa House between 6 May and 5 July was about £10,000. Information for the past three years is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
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§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions his Department has had with the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis concerning policing arrangements outside the South African embassy.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggOfficials have discussions as necessary with the Metropolitan Police about the arrangements for the policing and protection of diplomatic missions, including the South African embassy.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many arrests have been made outside the South African embassy since 6 May; and what charges have been brought.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI understand that since 6 May a total of 172 arrests have been made. Those arrested have been charged with a variety of public order and other offences, including criminal damage, assault on police occasioning actual bodily harm, breach of bail conditions and obstruction.