HC Deb 21 October 1985 vol 84 cc43-4W
Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if any discussions have taken place with the London fire brigade on the use of water cannon for crowd control.

Mr. Giles Shaw

No.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if consideration is being given to the use of water cannon for riot control.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Yes, although the disadvantages are well known, and it is not thought that they would have been of any use in the Tottenham riot.