G20 protests examined

The Committee recommend that:

• Every police force should have a widely advertised nominated point of contact, to make it easy for the police and protesters to discuss the protest before it takes place.
• The Government, the Independent Police Complaints Commission and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary should explore using independent negotiators to facilitate dialogue and to resolve disputes between police and protesters.
• Containment can be lawful but only where it is proportionate and necessary to do so. It should take more account of the circumstances of the individual and allow people to leave as soon as possible. Toilets, water and medical facilities must be easily accessible to people contained.
• There should be a legal requirement for police officers to wear identification numbers when on duty.
• The Metropolitan Police should ensure that any exaggerated and distorted reporting in the media can be countered quickly and authoritatively.

This Report also provides an update on:

• Protest around Parliament
• The use of counter-terrorism powers and civil injunctions
• Section 5 of the Public Order Act 1986
• Protest in quasi-public space
• The taking and retention of photographs.

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