§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what guidance he has given(a) the Metropolitan police and (b) other forces on the participation in uniform by off-duty police officers in public events; and what representations he has received on the participation of police officers in (i) the Lesbian and Gay Pride March in London and (ii) Europride March in Manchester in 2003. [123425]
§ Ms BlearsNo guidance has been issued by the Home Office on the question of off duty officers wearing uniform at a public event. The Gay Police Association asked the Home Office for permission to put the "could you" police recruitment advertising, logo on polo and rugby shirts, which would be worn by police officers and their friends and family, at the Lesbian and Gay Pride March in London and the Europride March in Manchester. Permission was granted.