Written question asked by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Monday, 22 February 2010.

Armed Forces: Homecoming

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government how the police are protecting armed forces homecoming parades from unlawful protesters.

Answer: The role of the police is to facilitate peaceful protest, to keep the peace, to uphold the law and to prevent the commission of offences. Police tactics and decisions on how to achieve this difficult balance are a matter for the independent judgement of chief officers of police. While the Government and police are committed to facilitating peaceful protest, we are clear that people have the right to go about their lawful business without fear of harm or intimidation. It is unacceptable for protest to cross over into violence or intimidation and the police will use the range of powers they have to deal with any activity that crosses this line.

Secondary information