PCC's response to Taser trial

I do not intend to comment on the outcome of this trial. Furthermore, the issue of when it is right to deploy a Taser is an operational matter for the Chief Constable.

However, there is a public interest in the recent increase in the use of Taser and in whether national guidance and policies on Taser are being set out clearly to officers in training.

I think the public may also have questions about whether it is appropriate to use Taser in the confined space of a custody cell.

In my view it is the responsibility of PCCs, working with the College of Policing, to ensure that operational guidance is sufficiently robust and that adequate safeguards for the public are built in.

I also hope that the Independent Police Complaints Commission will consult with PCCs as and when they review Taser use.

I intend to discuss the implications of this case with the Chief Constable to determine what lessons have been learned.