Use of batons

Press, 19 August 1981, Page 22

Use of batons

Sir.—l am very disturbed that a police officer of the seniority and integrity of Deputy Assistant Commissioner Twentyman should state so categorically (“The Press. August 17), when answering allegations otherwise, that “It was clear that no batons were raised above the head." This statement appears to be based on the evidence of one TV film. While it may be quite correct for that film it is not correct for at least one other occasion during the march. I was present at the Wilsons RoadLismore Street junction, with other members of Lincoln College students and staff, engaged in peaceful protest about the tour, when one of the baton- drawing incidents occurred. I saw on one occasion during this incident at least three batons raised in the air. They appeared to come from the support row of policemen.

But since I am six feet tall and was standing up I must conclude that Mr Twentyman’s confidence in the accuracy of his statement is not justified and certainly is not supported by my personal observations. — Yours, etc.. S. CHALLENGER. August 17, 1981.

Sir.—l do not doubt the sincerity of Mr Twentyman’s belief that long batons were not used over-zealously on Saturday, but if he wishes to know what actually happened, he would be well-advised not to rely on films for his information. I was within 10 metres of one of the “incidents" in Wilsons Road, -and saw the events clearly. Police batons were raised above head height, and w T ere used directly at the heads and faces of demonstrators. At that time I had heard no instruction or warning from the police, so the question of disobedience does not arise. I saw three people (one an elderly man) with facial injuries as a result of baton blows. By their actions, the riot squad is already close to forfeiting that accumulation of respect in which I have hitherto held the entire police force. — Yours, etc., JOHN PEET. August 17. 1981.