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Hate Crime: Internet

Asked by Mr Andrew SnowdenConservativeHome OfficeTabled Answered 10 September 2025UIN 75158

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what guidance is issued to police forces on deploying armed officers for arrests relating to alleged online speech offences.

Answered by Sarah Jones

The College of Policing issues Authorised Professional Practice guidance around the deployment of armed officers.

Decisions around the deployment of armed officers are operational matters for Chief Officers to determine based on a thorough assessment of threats and risks.

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