Copy of a Letter from David Veness, ACPO,
to Bruce Mann, MOD on the SDR New Chapter (8 April 2002)
SDR NEW CHAPTER—HOME DEFENCE AND SECURITY
Thank you for sending a copy of the latest draft
progress reports on the above.
The police service is very grateful to you for
keeping us so helpfully briefed and included in this debate. I
am especially indebted for your kindness in calling personally
at the Yard to discuss the way ahead.
ACPO Terrorism & Allied Matters Committee
meets on 11 April 2002, and I will report the creation of a sub-group
which is addressing counter-terrorist reinforcement. The group
is concerned to look at all available resources, which could be
drawn upon to assist poice before, during and after a counter-terrorist
incident. From a police viewpoint there are various options, including:
1. Special Constabularies.
2. Police auxiliaries (developments await).
3. Private security resources.
4. Volunteer reserves.
5. Others—eg voluntary organisations.
Taking the Volunteer Reserves as an example,
the possible reinforcement roles which could occur might include:
(a) providing visible (unarmed) guarding
should a threat occur to a wide range of targets (eg the power
industry);
(b) assisting with mass evacuation; and
(c) crisis response to a mass casualty attack
location.
I would be very grateful if the interests of
the Volunteer Reserve could be included in the "CT Reinforcement
Working Group" and it would be very helpful if you could
suggest a nominee.
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