The Library of the House of Commons has produced a timely information note for MPs which examines the possible roles of the police and armed forces in controlling riots.
The updated note includes Government statements on recent events, police powers and tactics, emergency powers under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, advice to the public, Domestic Operations by the Armed Forces, and Legal Powers of Military Personnel Conducting Military Aid to the Civil Power (MACP) Operations.
The information is provided to MPs in support of their parliamentary duties and should not be relied on as legal or professional advice. Operational guidance and legal advice to armed forces personnel is a matter for the Service Authorities. For general information/study purposes the note is available to the public from this link: