Concerns about future violent protests over the Government’s austerity measures have prompted chief constables to ask Theresa May, the Home Secretary, for authorisation to deploy water cannon in mainland Britain for the first time.
Chief constables have concluded the machines would be a valuable addition to their armoury after carrying out detailed research, including a scientific analysis of injuries that members of the public can suffer when hit by the powerful water jets.
Documents disclosed by the Association of Chief Police Officers show plans have been drawn up for the cannon to be used against protesters and rioters in the future.
Police warn they expect water cannon will be required because “the ongoing and potential future austerity measures are likely to lead to continued protest”.
They claimed the machines would have given them an “operational advantage” in the 2011 riots. Read on and comment » | David Barrett, Home Affairs Correspondent | Wednesday, January 22, 2014
