§ Ms CoffeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer of 3 March to the hon. Member for Uxbridge (Mr. Shersby),Official Report, column 76, when the scientific evaluation of the wounding potential of an expandable baton will be completed; when it is expected that trials will begin; what current trials of the straight baton are taking place; who is conducting those trials; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Charles WardleThe Home Office police scientific development branch expects to report on the wounding potential of expandable batons soon. In the light of its conclusions, we will be discussing with the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis possible future trials of the equipment. It is for individual chief officers of other forces to consider their position as to whether or not to test an expandable baton. Avon and Somerset constabulary and Merseyside police have decided to test expandable batons and are currently training officers in their use. Dorset354W police have issued a 22-inch straight baton to all officers and Northumbria police expect to do so in June, once training has been completed. The Metropolitan police also expect to test alternative straight batons shortly.