On the Today programme on Radio 4 this morning, http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/today/ the Mosquito device was discussed. This machine emits a buzzing noise, set at a pitch too high for adult ears to hear, but which can be heard by young people, under 20. It is used outside premises where young people have gathered and where there is a perception of disorder. The device has been devised by a private company and is available for use by Police, local authorities and private companies. The details can be seen at:
http://www.compoundsecurity.co.uk/
Professor Sir Al Aynsley-Green, the Commissioner for Children was interviewed on the show. He said that children were angry about the use of the machines. He said they were installed indiscriminatorily. Children had reported to him that while some kids do cause problems, most don’t. They reported they had no where to go, nothing to do.
The thrust of Professor Sir Al Aynsley-Greens view was that there was a widening gap between young and old, with a disproportionate fear of the young. Professor Green will now lead a campaign to “Map the Mosquito”, to open a national debate about their use.
In Plymouth there has been use of such devices, as well as the playing of classical music outside shops (apparently an equally effective deterrent!) You will recall we have also heard the playing of classical music in Bretonside bus station to deter people “of a certain age” from loitering!
Across the country there has been extensive use of the mosquito, in Merseyside they have fitted the device into a covert vehicle that can be driven from location to location.
As said elsewhere in this blog, we see children as valuable people who have a right to enjoy the City. If large groups do cause harrasement, fear or distress, we will to deal with it, but we do not want to “criminalise” our young people.
Good discussion brewing on the R4 website, interesting debate:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/mbtoday/F5963509?thread=5091969
