Camden New Journal - by RICHARD OSLEY Published: 19 July 2007
‘Hide the guns’ plea to police
ARMED police guarding the Primrose Hill home of new Foreign Secretary David Miliband have been told to be more discreet.
Parents of children at primary schools in the area are worried the sight of the officers and their guns will be distressing for youngsters.
One mother said: “I understand they have a job to do but they are just standing on the street corner with guns as long as your arm. “It is Primrose Hill not a war zone and it is upsetting for the children. They shouldn’t have to see that every day. They will think it is normal.”
Parents are understood to have asked schools to request that police are not so visible, especially during the morning drop-off and afternoon collection. Another concerned mother added: “This is a highly residential area. If this MP needs protection he should live with his own, down in Westminster.”
Mr Miliband is a well-known face in Primrose Hill, where he grew up and was a former secretary of the local Labour party. His brother Ed, also a cabinet minister, lives in the area.
Police declined to comment but are thought to have been made aware of the concerns.