Why would the Riot Act be read out?

Why would an extract from the Riot Act be read out to a RAF Beach Flight?


 
 

I can't read the text to get a context but from my memories of 'A' level history it was normally used as a warning and perhaps in this case a dispersal warning? I didn't think think it was used much post WW1 but the term is still used. 

I wonder if it can still be used? Much easier these days with more efficient means of broadcast like loud speakers. Do police cars still have loudspeakers so that police can give instruction? I recall them being used a lot during the IRA annoyances in London in the 70's and 80's.

After it is read out then anyone breaking it can be arrested.

A friend who was Deputy Lord Lieutenant joked that he had the authority to read it out.

But don't the police or someone then have responsibility for any damage done!

 

Peter wrote:

I can't read the text to get a context but from my memories of 'A' level history it was normally used as a warning and perhaps in this case a dispersal warning? I didn't think think it was used much post WW1 but the term is still used. 

I wonder if it can still be used? Much easier these days with more efficient means of broadcast like loud speakers. Do police cars still have loudspeakers so that police can give instruction? I recall them being used a lot during the IRA annoyances in London in the 70's and 80's.
 

Will see if I can attach so can be downloaded

 

Very strange. It doesn't look as though any trouble was mentioned so there seems to be no reason to read it out.