I haven't bothered reading the whole thread (sue me) but I just wanted to give my five pence on what I thought through all this. The one thing that stood out to me the most was everyone out crying for police to have more power and carry guns as standard.... hold on... wasn't it a police shooting that started this? Last I read Duggan had a weapon possibly but it was not yet know if it was a gun - hell it was probably a mobile phone again (too soon?). This may have changed since, but none the less, a police shooting started this whole mess. Now before I get flammed out of the ballpark, I do not agree with violent rioting even if the cause was just, but this was not just, it was pure barbarism however I also don't think the police should get guns because their track record in these situations is piss poor. They'd probably shoot a woman with shiny earrings given half the chance. I mean sure, if the police were given PROPER training and didn't have ADHD, sure go ahead but we've been fine for years with Armed Response Teams and I for one don't want to see England descend into a traditional cop show where every criminal ends up shot. Should the police have more power? Defo, couldn't agree more. Should this mean the police have full control over what force is necessary for the each situation without asking further up the chain and this can include guns? Please no, I'd be frightened to walk down the street on the phone.
