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Interesting that many of the London residents interviewed on the news appear to blame the recent rioting at least partly on an absence of police. How times change. Thirty years ago I found myself driving down Coldharbour Lane in Brixton, South London, on the eve of what developed into a pitched battle. Lord Scarman's subsequent report described the Metropolitan police as "an occupying army." Meanwhile, here in the 21st century, Devon & Cornwall police "monitor social networking sites" as their contribution to maintaining law and order. I gather an announcement is due shortly on how many officers are to be sent from Devon & Cornwall to help reclaim the streets. The overtime bill is going to be horrendous.

STOP PRESS: 25 Devon & Cornwall police sent to London "for several days."