Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Code of Practice for Armed Policing and Police Use of Less Lethal Weapons

14 January 2020 · Home Office

Proposed by Priti Patel Con Witham

Justice & CourtsPolicing & Resources

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The Secretary of State for the Home Department has approved a revised Code of Practice for Armed Policing and Police Use of Less Lethal Weapons
  • The new Code replaces the 2003 version and incorporates recommendations from the Anthony Grainger Public Inquiry
  • All new weapon systems must be approved by the Home Secretary before use by police forces in England and Wales

Issue summary

The Secretary of State for the Home Department has approved a revised Code of Practice for Armed Policing and Police Use of Less Lethal Weapons.

Action requested

The new Code replaces the 2003 version and includes recommendations from the Anthony Grainger Public Inquiry. It mandates that all new weapon systems must be approved by the Home Secretary before use by police forces in England and Wales.

Key facts

  • The revised Code of Practice for Armed Policing and Police Use of Less Lethal Weapons replaces the 2003 version.
  • All police officers have a duty to have regard to this new statutory basis.
  • New weapon systems must be approved by the Home Secretary before use.
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