By Bryan Kay

TAYSIDE POLICE yesterday insisted the admission by the chief constable that protesters will be allowed to demonstrate beside the security cordon around the location of the G8 summit is not a climbdown.

Chief Constable John Vine, speaking on a national TV news programme on Wednesday night, revealed for the first time that peaceful protest would be permitted next to the perimeter fence being built around Gleneagles Hotel to protect the group of world leaders.

A spokesman for the force said yesterday it had never been stated that people would be turned away from the temporary blockade.

He also insisted they were prepared for every eventuality, including the possibility several groups of protesters could form at different points around the fence, which extends a mile from the hotel.

“We have several thousand police officers and we can assure that they will be sufficient,” said the spokesman.

He added that if protests turn ugly and result in a disturbance, officers would take appropriate action.

Mr Vine said the force has maintained throughout the lead-up to the summit that peaceful protests would be accommodated.

In a statement he said, “The fence clearly outlines the secure boundary line which will be policed during the event.

“We have said all along that protest will be facilitated and we stand by that position.

“Clearly protests can take a number of different forms and I understand that people will want to get as close as possible to the site.

“It is in everyone’s interest that we maintain the security of the site and the safety of any protesters.

“Experience has taught us how dangerous it can be should large numbers of people come in contact with a steel fence.

“I would encourage those who are planning to protest near to Gleneagles Hotel to contact the police and discuss their plans.

“Tayside Police is continuing to speak with representatives of G8 Alternatives with a view to facilitating their protest.”

A row has already broken out over the decision to ban a march of 20,000 demonstrators through Auchterdarer on July 6, while moves to charge organisers for a 4500-person rally to be held in a park have been branded a “scandal.”