§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his current policy relating to the carrying and use of guns by the police.
§ Mr. Merlyn Rees:The issue of firearms to police officers is an operational matter for the chief officer of police.
The policy, which has not changed in recent years, is that firearms are carried only when there is reason to suppose that a police officer may have to face an armed man and used only if human life is endangered.