Editor

I have trepidation, alarm, when I see ‘Kill the Bill’ displayed on placards at peaceful marches in London, Bristol and Aberystwyth, objecting to the Police Crime Sentencing and Court Bill, which give police greater power to curb protests.

During my service, this placard would have caused a ‘breach of the peace’. It is the duty of a policeman, who has power to take action to prevent in my day the offence of ‘breach of peace’ at a peaceful protest or vigil.

I do not know what difference there is between the Police Crime Sentencing and Court Bill and the offence ‘breach of the peace’ where the police could take the necessary action for those who could cause a riot or unacceptable situations.

If there are future marches or vigils objecting to this Bill I hope I will not see a ‘Kill the Bill’ placard.

PS: Years ago I was on duty ata lodge near Aberystwyth where the Duke of Edinburgh stayed overnight. A few days later my Chief Superintendent call me to his office at Aberystwyth Police Station. He said that when Prince Philip opened his curtains in the morning he did not want to see a police dog and policeman in his view.

Dai Thomas Southgate Aberystwyth

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