@Anonymous Coward
'So what does your calculator say about shoot-to-kill success rate so far? (number of people saved from terrorist attacks vs number of people killed by mistake)'
Well, bearing in mind the number of people a suicide bomber can kill in one go, quite good actually. What do you think was going on in NI for years? The SAS etc. taking out terrorists before they blew things up, or on the way, or as it happened? The Israelis have stopped a good number as well. It's not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but asking politely doesn't work. So, if you have any other ideas and am willing to try it personally next time, please feel free to volunteer..........................deafening silence I'm sure. More than happy to criticise those who are willing to act and take risks on your behalf, but somewhat slow in coming forwards when asked to do it yourself.
'You are probably right that release triggers have not been used much *before the public got to know that the shoot to kill policy was in force*.'
Meaning. Sorry, I was talking rubbish and you got me.
'And please let's stop this trite right-wing "split second decision" rhetoric. Shoot to kill is still in place and Sir Ian Blair had *1 year* to think about its effectiveness before we got Forest Gate - thankfully this time the guy was only injured.'
It's a fact. When you have a split second to make the decision, mistakes will be made. And the fact is, that's what police have when something like this occurs. It's not trite, it's fact. There are various courses you can go on and experience things like this. Try it. Then, you'll find out how good your split second decisions are.
'I look like a terrorist - I am scared.'
What's this supposed to mean? What does a terrorist look like? If you know, I'm sure the Met would appreciate your help. I suppose you mean you look like an Arab? Well, if you're worried in this country, go to the Middle East. The chances of being killed there are far higher. In this county, you stand far more chance of being killed in a road accident or even having a heart attack.
The other alternative of course, is for everyone, including Arab communities, to help the police. This includes Mosques etc.etc. The chances of being accidently killed go up enourmously when the police and security services know these people are around but get no help in identifying them. For every one of the bombers on 7/7, people after the event said they knew they were radical etc.etc. Yet, what did they do? WIthout good quality intelligence, the Met will make more and more mistakes. So, your own safety is partly in your own hands and that of the Arab/Muslim community.