Hackney Labour Party

Working hard for you

The use of tasers in Hackney

The Metropolitan Police are increasing the number of police officers trained to use tasers across London. 

In Hackney this means that 40 officers who respond to 999 calls will be able to use Tasers where appropriate.

Labour’s crime lead Sophie Linden said:

“The use of tasers is an operational policing matter for the police.  However residents will want to be reassured that they will only be used when absolutely necessary due to the risk posed to the public or officers.

“We will be making sure that the use of tasers in Hackney is monitored carefully.”

A motion was passed at February's Full Council meeting by Labour councillors stressing the need for maintaining good community relations, and transparency around the use of tasers.

The text of the motion is as follows:

The use of tasers by the Metropolitan Police

This Council notes that the Metropolitan Police has taken the decision to increase the number of police officers trained to use tasers and that this is an issue of public interest and some members of the public are concerned by the use and safety of tasers. This council is aware of the importance of maintaining good community relations in Hackney.

Whilst this is an operational policing issue for the police, this Council notes that the Police are not routinely armed in London, and that the tasers will be deployed by a minority of officers who respond to 999 calls.

This Council resolves to seek assurances from the Borough commander that tasers will be deployed only when absolutely necessary due the risk to the public and officers and to ensure transparency in the use of tasers in Hackney.