Lothian and Borders Police Chief Constable press conference

Between 11.00am and 12.00 Lothian and Borders Police Chief Constable held a press conference

These MP3 recordings have been made from the BBC 24news channel and BBC online.



and, more from thier point-of-view ......

Lothian and Borders Police keep an updated collection of Press Releases at:

 http://www.lbp.police.uk/press_release/index.asp

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Assistant Chief Constable Tom Halpin of Lothian and Borders Police made the following statement at a press conference in Edinburgh at 5pm this afternoon (4th July).

1900 hours 04/07/05

Press Office, Fettes

Statement from press conference

Assistant Chief Constable Tom Halpin of Lothian and Borders Police made the following statement at a press conference in Edinburgh at 5pm this afternoon:

We are experiencing spontaneous outbreaks of disorder around the Princes Street area of the city. Police took action to minimise the danger this is causing and ensure the safety of the public. This has been and continues to be robust and proportionate.

The so-called Carnival has been staged without discussion and clearly those involved are determined to cause as much disruption as possible.

We have always said that we wanted to assist those who wish to make peaceful protest, but in our view it is clear this was never on this groups agenda. This is not about protest - this is unacceptable and irresponsible behaviour.

We are facing a hard core of determined activists supported by hangers on. Large numbers have been facing up to the police, they are clearly organised and coordinated. We have recovered maps, radios and telephones, weapons including stones, staves and other like missiles, which have been thrown at police officers.

There is evidence of weapons being brought into the city centre by protesters despite their apparent outward display of good humour.

I am satisfied that some key ringleaders are already arrested.

We will continue to police robustly and maintain law and order through our presence until the situation is resolved.

Our police officers have behaved with a measured and professional way despite extreme provocation and indeed violence.

PLEASE NOTE: For further inquiries please contact the force press office at police headquarters on: 0131 311 3423.

Website address: www.lbp.police.uk
Email address:  media.relations@lbp.pnn.police.uk

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Interestingly, BBC online news coverage gives Indymedia a mention!

quote "A report on the alternative media website Indymedia accused the police of antagonising protesters and said there had been "no 'riots' in Edinburgh this afternoon".

G8 protest accused set for court  http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/4646491.stm