HC Deb 02 February 1988 vol 126 c527W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for a report from the chief constable of Thames Valley as to why police officers on duty outside Greenham Common during the dispersal of a cruise missile convoy on the night of 14–15 January did not all display their numbers, and as to why Officer No. 372 at the Swan roundabout had his number covered in a black substance; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

I understand from the chief constable of Thames Valley police that it is force policy that uniformed officers of constable and sergeant rank should display identification numbers at all times. Supervising officers are careful to ensure that the requirement is complied with.

Any specific complaint about the alleged failure of an officer to display an identification number should be pursued with the chief constable. I understand that police constable 372 was not on duty on the night of 14–15 January.