§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for a report from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis as to (a) the circumstances surrounding the siege in a chemist's shop in Lea Bridge road, Leyton, on 2 April, (b) details of the associated police operation and (c) whether the police sought any assistance from the army in dealing with the incident.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis informs me that at approximately 9.30am on Tuesday 2 April Mr. Gary Osbourne entered a chemist's shop at 585 Lea Bridge road, Leyton, London E17,armed with a shotgun and took hostage the pharmacist, Mr. Malik, and his assistant, Miss Paul. Armed officers surrounded the premises and contact was made with Mr. Osbourne by intercom. At about 11.30 am the hostages were released unharmed and at 12 noon Mr. Osbourne surrendered and was arrested. No shots were fired and the police did not seek assistance from the army. Mr. Osbourne has been charged with possessing a loaded firearm with intent to endanger life.