§ Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to extend the availability of baton rounds for use by the police; and if he will make a statement. [13896]
§ Mr. Denham[holding answer 13 November 2001]: Thirty-six police forces in England and Wales currently possess baton rounds and an additional three non-Home Department forces are similarly equipped. This will increase to 45 forces by April 2002 when the manufacturer has supplied further baton guns. The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) circulated on 24 September 2001 further guidance on the use of baton rounds as a possible alternative to police use of firearms in certain operational situations.
The Home Office, (ACPO) and Northern Ireland Office are currently reviewing, as a matter of priority, the full range of less lethal technologies. The Northern Ireland Office will publish a report on phase two of this work in due course.