Statement issued on behalf of the Chair of the MPA - May Day protests

26/01
2 May 2001

I commend the Metropolitan Police for their handling of the May Day protests in central London, which I believe struck the right balance between facilitating peaceful demonstrations and deterring violent disorder.

Disruptive and threatening behaviour by a minority of people bent on aggression and mindless acts of thuggery, has marred the day's events that started out as peaceful and good humoured.

The police tactic of containment in and around the flashpoint of Oxford Street to avoid serious injuries to innocent people and damage to property proved to be the right one, with a relatively small number of injuries and arrests.

It is a pity that protest organisers did not see fit to consult with police over their plans. The events of today prove that it is in everyone's interest to cooperate fully with police to avoid unnecessary aggravation, frustration and pointless stand-offs.

The level of resources deployed by the police and the operational strategies employed proved to be appropriate to the level of threat of disorder, and in ensuring that Londoners' safety and security was maintained. Nonetheless, the police authority will be asking for a review of the policing so that we can assess what lessons need to be learned for similar future events.

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