1990: Violence flares in poll tax demonstration

An anti-poll tax rally in central London erupted into riots on 31 March 1990.

More than 400 people were arrested and property was damaged with repairs estimated at £400,000 after the demonstration which saw 100,000 people turn out to protest against the poll tax.

The demonstration had been preceded by many smaller rallies across the country.

Forty-five police officers were among the 113 people injured, as well as 20 police horses.

Originally broadcast on 1 April 1990.

BBC Archive

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