ACPO Response to Figures on use of Taser

Derek Talbot, ACPO spokesperson on Taser and Assistant Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police said:

"ACPO welcomes the commitment to publish these figures quarterly. A transparent and open approach is clearly an important part of providing information to the public about how the Police Service uses Taser and the extension of its use beyond firearms teams to specially trained officers.

"Taser continues to provide a low risk option to the public and the Police in situations where officers face severe violence or threats of violence.

In almost half of all cases in which Taser has been used to diffuse conflict, the mere threat of its use has been enough to deter assailants.

In circumstances where actual use of force has taken place, it has also proved itself an invaluable option in enabling officers to resolve situations without resorting to a higher level of force.

"The Police Service in this country is committed to using force only when absolutely necessary and has a long tradition of operating without carrying firearms. Taser enables us to protect that tradition."