Protesters will face barbed wire, barricades

Press, 1 June 1985, Page 1

Protesters will face barbed wire, barricades

Barbed wire and street barricades will be used by the police to help prevent disruption by protesters at today’s rugby test between the All Blacks and England at Lancaster Park. Christchurch’s police chief, Deputy Assistant Commissioner George Twentyman, 1 said that barbed ‘: wire would . be;; placed “at certain critical- ■ points’’ in Lancaster Park, mitjit would not be used bri‘ the streets. DrUms ■ and wooden booms would be used to create barricades at six points on streets round Lancaster Park, including

Taiford Street, Lancaster Street, Charles Street, Stevens Street, and Wilsons Road. Police leave has been limited for today’s effort, which is believed to involve almost every available policeman in Christchurch. Addington Raceway has been used this - week as a training, and, vehicle parking base for “Operation ’85.” Mr Twehtyman said that the police would keep a profile’ “appropriate to the circumstances” during , the match. A helicopter would be used to help the police. The police had been in

touch with representatives of both pro-tour and antitour groups in recent weeks. The anti-tour group wanted to be able to get within sight of the park, and they would be able to do so down Lancaster Street, said Mr Twentyman. “They make it clear they can’t be responsible for all their factions, but their clear intention is that it will be a peaceful march,”’lie said. The 7. opposing groups would be kept apart by the police at vital points, such as near the gates to the ground.

Liquor and packages would not be allowed into the park, and no-one other than officials and players would be allowed on to the playing field.

There had been no indication of large numbers of protesters coming to the match from outside Christchurch, said Mr Twentyman. However, “every forseeable eventuality” had beeh 'pianned for: .A man: was apprehended on Thursday evening after being found painting the words, “Fire Blazey” on a footpath near Lancaster Park. He will be charged in due course.