§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis recently changed his instructions to his officers concerning measures necessary for compliance with the Vienna convention relating to the positioning and nature of demonstrations outside embassies; and if the proposed change was first discussed with his Department.
§ Mr. HurdThe Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis tells me that he revised his instructions to his officers in the light of recent disturbances outside diplomatic missions. This was an operational matter for the commissioner and there was no prior discussion with the Home Office.