Motions received by the Chief Executive (relating to G20 demonstrations)

Report: 6b
Date: 30 April 2009
By: Chief Executive

Amendment tabled by Vice Chair, Kit Malthouse

This Authority recognises that the job of policing the G20 demonstrations on 1 April was difficult and the strategy and tactics adopted should be reviewed.

We note that HMIC are undertaking a review at the request of the Commissioner and request that HMIC take evidence from all concerned including protesters.

We therefore refer this matter to the newly established Civil Liberties Panel of the MPA with a specific remit to consider, inter alia, the following:

1. Recommendations made by HMIC in their review
2. Ensure that the principle of facilitating demonstrations and other peaceful forms of protest are enshrined in the tactics employed by MPS
3. Ensure that the balance between facilitating peaceful protest and preventing criminal acts by a minority is always proportionate
4. Consider the circumstances under which the MPS should use more assertive public order tactics, such as containment, baton charges, police dogs and horses and the possible detrimental effects of those tactics
5. Consider the circumstances under which the personal property of protesters has been seized and whether this is appropriate
6. Consider the circumstances in which officers are on duty without identification and make recommendations to ensure this does not take place
7. Consider the media handling of demonstrations where there is an anticipation of violence or disorder
8. Consider the reputational issues of public order tactics employed in the anticipation or eventuality of violence or disorder
9. Consider how the MPS should reflect in its public order policy and tactics its responsibilities towards vulnerable or disabled members of the community

The MPA recognises that many of these issues may be considered in the HMIC review, which is due to report its initial findings at the end of June, and we have no wish to duplicate that work.

Summary

To consider two motions received by the Chief Executive from Dee Doocey and Joanne McCartney.

A. Recommendation

That members consider the motions received by the Chief Executive.

B. Supporting information

1. As provided in Standing Orders 5.7, the Chief Executive has received the following two motions

Proposed by Dee Doocey

• Seconded Jenny Jones

‘This Authority recognises that the job of policing the G20 demonstrations on 1st April was difficult but believes that the strategy and tactics adopted by the Metropolitan Police were fundamentally wrong. This Authority notes that the Commissioner has asked HMIC to review public order policing, and that the IPCC are investigating a number of specific complaints. In order to begin the process of restoring public confidence the HMIC review must take evidence in a public forum from all concerned, including protesters, and closely examine other recent protests to consider the growing concern that police tactics have become more aggressive in recent years. The HMIC review should make recommendations that would form the basis of long-term policies on the policing of protest in recognition of the following principles:

1. Demonstrations and other peaceful forms of protest are a fundamental democratic right, which all public bodies are under a duty to facilitate and protect.

2. Policing of demonstrations must always be proportionate, and must discriminate between the need to facilitate peaceful protest and prevent criminal acts committed by a minority.

3. The police must use aggressive tactics such as ‘kettling’, baton charges, and attacks with dogs only when they are absolutely necessary and proportionate. The seizure of personal property from demonstrators is not acceptable. The use of aggressive or intimidatory tactics against peaceful protesters is provocative, inappropriate, and counter-productive, since it increases the tension and likelihood of violence.

4. Any officers not clearly identifying themselves by wearing an identification number are committing a disciplinary offence.

5. The police must exercise due care and attention when making statements to the media since predictions of violence can be self-fulfilling. The police must never exaggerate the likelihood of violence, nor should they dissemble the facts after a demonstration has occurred.

6. The police must consider Britain’s reputation abroad and not commit acts that set a poor example and thus undermine our country’s efforts to promote human rights.

If these principles are not fully incorporated into the HMIC review and any recommendations that arise from it, then this Authority will re-examine what further steps need to be taken, including the possibility of instigating a further review.’

Proposed Joanne McCartney

• Seconded John Biggs

This Authority recognises the public interest and concern regarding the policing of the recent G20 demonstrations. We note that:

1. The Commissioner has asked the HMIC to conduct a review of public order policing tactics;

2. The IPCC will be investigating specific complaints regarding police conduct and tactics during the demonstrations;

3. The Home Affairs Select Committee has taken evidence relating to the G20 demonstrations.

This Authority, as the oversight body of the MPS, and with the view to retaining public confidence in public order policing agrees to:

a) Call on the HMIC when conducting their review to take evidence from G20 demonstrators; and to ensure that their final report is available as a public document

b) Set up a panel of members to review MPS public order tactics, taking into account the recommendations of any review or investigation into the G20 demonstrations and any other relevant issues. This panel will also ensure that any appropriate recommendations are fully implemented in a timely manner. This panel will be set up as soon as possible to begin its work.

C. Race and equality impact

There are no race and equality implications in relation to the process for considering motions.

D. Financial implications

There are no financial implications arising directly from these motions.

E. Background papers

None

F. Contact details

Report author(s): Nick Baker

For more information contact:

MPA general: 020 7202 0202
Media enquiries: 020 7202 0217/18

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