HC Deb 28 January 1999 vol 324 cc376-7W
Mr. Sedgemore

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the review of the guidelines covering the use of plastic bullets will be completed; and when he will publish his conclusions. [67997]

Mr. Boateng

Consultation is continuing with the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Royal Ulster Constabulary about whether any changes to the current Home Office guidances covering the use of baton rounds in England and Wales are required. Any such change will be announced in due course.

Mr. Sedgemore

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take action to abolish the use of plastic bullets as a means of riot control in the United Kingdom. [67998]

Mr. Boateng

The use of baton rounds is one tactical option available to police in dealing with situations of serious public disorder. There are no plans to remove this option from the police service in England and Wales, for which the Home Secretary has responsibility.

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