Cambridge Liberal Democrats

MP calls for investigation into police action at demo

MP Julian Huppert has called for a government investigation into the police handling of the student tuition fees protest and officers who allegedly covered up their identification numbers.

Julian raised the issue with Home Secretary, Theresa May yesterday (Monday, December 13) during a debate on Public Order Policing and following the student protests in London last Thursday which erupted in violence.

He said: "I absolutely deplore the violence and recognise the challenge that the police face in trying to ensure a proportionate response. However, does the Home Secretary recognise that there is still concern about the use of kettling and the handful of police officers who allegedly covered up their identification numbers?"

He called on Ms May to look into the matters and make a statement to the Commons.

She said: "Of course, it is important that any complaints made about how the police operated are looked into and properly investigated. They should be accountable."

Later Julian said: "It is clear that the police face a very difficult job in controlling such a large crowd where feelings are running so high and they are in danger of being injured.

"But I am deeply concerned about some of the tactics being used especially the use of kettling to hold protesters. Reports of police officers allegedly covering up their identification numbers are also very worrying.

"There must be an investigation into the police handling of this protest. The police must be accountable for their actions."

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