CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC ORDER ACT

a British law passed in 1994 dealing with a number of social and legal issues. It gave the police new powers to prevent people gathering in large groups, especially New Age travellers and people attending outdoor rave parties. It also introduced new laws to deal with terrorism, and allowed secure training centres to be established for children who repeatedly break the law. The Act was opposed by many people who thought it gave the police too much power and restricted people’s freedom unfairly.