ABSTRACT
How command was exerted over the operation depended hugely upon whether the operation was major or minor. Sensitive events-be they ceremonials, large-scale entertainment, or potentially problematic protest demonstrations-received quite distinct treatment from smaller, less problematic protest demonstrations. Minor operations were left to a chief inspector or, possibly, a superintendent to command alone. Such planning as there was occurred in private, possibly after brief consultation with colleagues in the Public Order Branch or Special Events Office, but were organized at area or divisional level. Planning amounted to little more than deciding which serials of officers were to accompany which side of the march, and who were to act as the mobile reserve, if any. The “operation order”, designating personnel, call-signs and duties, was a cursory document printed on flimsy computer printout. The briefing of junior officers normally occurred when the officers were being fed immediately prior to the commencement of the operation. It took place either in a noisy canteen or in a small smoke-filled annexe, and consisted of either all the officers on the operation or just their inspectors and sergeants. The control room for the operation was usually housed on board the control van that led the march. The officer in command of the operation was usually physically present at the scene and in a position directly to instruct subordinates.
