Questions to the Mayor of London – answered at on 29 August 2019.
Following the recent misconduct case relating to an incident in September 2016 where an officer used a knife on a car windscreen, what action is being taken by the Metropolitan Police Service to prevent officers carrying their own knives while on duty?
The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is clear that officers must only use personal protective equipment that is issued by the service.
It is acknowledged, however, that Police officers do carry other lawful items which assist them in their duties. This includes torches, water bottles and multi-tools, for example. Specifically, for the latter item, the use of multi-tools has already saved lives by cutting ligatures where people are sadly attempting to commit suicide, or bandages whilst administering first aid. To that end, the MPS will not ask officers to stop using these items, however they will be expected to explain and as appropriate held to account for their usage.