Deepening divisions in British society along religious and political lines are forcing police to consider new riot-control tactics – including the deployment of water cannons. Senior officers fear that the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and last year’s July 7 Tube bombings have created a “new reality” in London, with a “volatile mix” of viewpoints on the streets. In response, the Metropolitan Police, the country’s biggest force, is now considering buying water cannons, which have never been used in mainland Britain, to deal with the most hostile protests. Full Story