HL Deb 20 June 2002 vol 636 c95WA
The Early of Shrewsbury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether Kent County Constabulary is conducting an internal investigation into the circumstances whereby journalists from Meridian TV and BBC TV Kent were allowed to use prohibited firearms by Kent County Constabulary personnel without having the authorisation of the Home Secretary; and, if so, whether they will place a copy of the report of the investigation in the Library of the House. [HL4644]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The force has issued a statement accepting that the use of firearms on this occasion was inappropriate and apologising for the embarrassment caused to the police authority, the Home Office and those attending the briefing. They have amended their range operating procedures to ensure that unauthorised civilians will not in future be allowed access to police firearms. They have considered whether or not the matter should be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service but have decided not to do so.