§ Mrs. ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) if the police or Prison Service are considering oleoresin capsicum as a possible chemical incapacitant for use in their operations; [2369]
(2) what (a) biomedical and (b) other technical testing of the chemical agent oleoresin capsicum have recently been carried out by the police scientific development branch, with particular reference to the effects of the agents when dispersed as an aerosol spray; with what results; and what further testing or trials of OC currently are taking place or planned; [2368]
(3) what recent (a) biomedical or (b) other technical testing of the chemical agent oleoresin capsicum has recently been carried out by his Department; and with what results. [2317]
§ Mr. MacleanThe Home Office police scientific development branch has reviewed all the available information about the effects of incapacitant products containing oleoresin capsicum. In addition, research commissioned by my right hon. and learned Friend has been undertaken into the possible carcinogenic effects of oleoresin capsicum's main incapacitating ingredient, capsaicin. That research indicates that capsaicin is not a genotoxic carcinogen.
My right hon. and learned Friend has, however, concluded, in consultation with the Association of Chief Police Officers, that currently too little is known about oleoresin capsicum's effects on health for it to be considered for use by the police in this country.
658WFurther work has been undertaken to determine methods of analysing oleoresin capsicum products. The Home Office police scientific development branch will continue to review any relevant research undertaken elsewhere.
The Prison Service has no proposals to use products containing oleoresin capsicum at this time.