§ Richard BurdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what arrangements have been made for the Police Service of Northern Ireland to purchase water cannons for use in Northern Ireland. [71749]
§ Jane KennedyThe Police Service of Northern Ireland, following discussion with the Northern Ireland Policing Board and ACPO, will shortly place an order for six new vehicle-mounted water cannon. It is hoped that the water cannon will be delivered before the summer of 2003.
This decision reflects the particular circumstances of North Ireland. It follows receipt of an interim statement, compiled by the independent DSAC Sub-Committee on the medical implications of less lethal weapons, on the medical implications of the use of vehicle-mounted water cannon in public order situations. The DSAC Committee is scheduled to complete the evaluation of vehicle-mounted water cannon before the systems enter service.
I have today placed a copy of the Sub-Committee's statement in the Library of the House.