Water Cannon Set to Be Deployed across Britain amid Fears of More Riots

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Senior officers say likelihood of future protests against the Government mean they could need permission to deploy water cannon in mainland Britain for the first time

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

Iran Police 'Use Gas' on Protesters
AL JAZEERA: Iranian police have reportedly used tear gas and water cannon against thousands of people gathering to protest against the disputed re-election of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iran's president.



Protesters tried to reach Revolution Square in the centre of the capital Tehran for a planned protest on Saturday, despite warnings from police that they would be arrested.

Police had blocked access to the square and Ahmadreza Radan, the deputy national police commander, had said they would "strongly confront any illegal gatherings and those without permission".



"Those who pull people to the streets should know that by a judicial decree they will be prosecuted by law and they will be arrested." Roads blocked >>>