Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to the press notice entitled New Taser approved for UK police forces to protect public, published on 2 October 2025 and the SACMILL statement on the medical implications of the Taser 10 conducted energy device system, published on 2 October 2025, what discussions she has had with the College of Policing’s on the inclusion of the findings of the Scientific Advisory Committee on the Medical Implications of Less-Lethal Weapons on (a) discharge causing subjects to stop breathing and faint, (b) the risk of CED-induced cardiac capture, (c) flammability risk, (d) increased risk of serious injury, (e) increased risk to children and (f) the danger of increased officer errors due to the complexity of the specific Conducted Energy Device in its new guidance and training for use of Taser 10.

Taser provides police officers with an important tactical option to protect the public and save lives. As with any use of force, Taser must only be used when it is reasonable, proportionate and necessary in the circumstances. The decision to approve Taser 10 has been taken on consideration of stringent testing and assessments.

In common with other conducted energy devices approved for use in policing, the operational performance of Taser 10 will be closely monitored, with officers required to complete a bespoke form after each use. Data from these forms will provide insights into the safety and efficacy of the system as well as any emerging trends. The National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) and respective forces will be able to review these forms nationally and locally to identify any patterns and factors for review such as any emerging technical issues with the device. The Home Office has regular discussions with the NPCC and other policing stakeholders to keep this under review. to keep this under review.

The College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice refers to the Statement of Medical Implications for Taser 10 by the Scientific Advisory Committee on the Medical Implications of Less Lethal Weapons (SACMILL) and learning is incorporated into CED training and guidance as well as post Taser healthcare procedures. All officers who are selected to use CEDs must have an appreciation of the physical and psychological effects of the device. This includes training officers to factor in the potential vulnerability of a person, and factors such as age and stature when assessing each situation.

A Child Rights Impact Assessment was conducted to inform the decision to approve Taser 10.