The Norwegian government has finally agreed to pleas from the police to be what they call “generally armed” at all times and not just during crisis situations. Now a majority in Parliament views arming as a sign of the times.
“The Labour Party has listened to the police,” said Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen, referring to their repeated calls to be armed for their own protection as well as the public’s. “The police should be able to effectively protect the population and to address the threat situations we now face.”
The Labour Party’s support was the last needed to gain a majority in Parliament on the arming issue. Only the UK, Ireland and Iceland retain unarmed police and some think Norway should continue to be among them. “Feelings should not overrule common sense,” editorialized newspaper Aftenposten, which still opposes arming and stresses that only 5 percent of police operations involve situations where they should be armed. Other opponents think the use of electric shock pistols should suffice in dangerous situations.
NewsinEnglish.no staff
