British To Consider Using Batons on Child Inmates

The British government will consider allowing staff at young offenders institutions in England and Wales to use batons to control children as young as 15.

Staff are currently allowed to use them only against those aged 18 and over, but that policy is to be reviewed.

The Prison Officers Association says its members need more protection from a rising number of assaults and to help bring situations quickly under control.

But critics fear the move could be counter-productive and fuel violence.