Part 3Dispersal of groups

Authorisations and powers

22Powers under section 21: supplementary

1

A direction under section 21—

a

may be given orally;

b

may be given to any person individually or to two or more persons together; and

c

may be withdrawn or varied by the constable who gave it.

2

A person who, without reasonable excuse, knowingly contravenes a direction given to the person under section 21 shall be guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to—

a

a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale; or

b

imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months,

or to both.

3

Where a constable reasonably suspects that a person has committed or is committing an offence under subsection (2), the constable may arrest the person without warrant.

4

Subsection (3) is without prejudice to any power of arrest conferred by law apart from that subsection.