Civilians may start policing London

War against terrorism: Patrols

Scotland Yard is considering the creation of a "Home Guard" army of civilian wardens to help combat terrorism.

The force could be drawn from the trusted members of the community who already patrol parts of London, clamping down on graffiti and vandalism. But more of them could be introduced as part of an auxiliary force to boost the police presence in the wake of the 11 September terrorist atrocities.

There are currently 1,000 extra police officers on the streets of the capital as part of Operation Calm, which is costing up to £1m a week.

A Scotland yard spokesman said civilian wardens, who would not have powers of arrest, would act as the eyes and ears of the police and help to reassure the public. Their use could help to free police resources and reduce the bill for the massive policing operation.

The spokesman said: "A number of options are being considered to increase police presence, including how we may use police auxiliaries under the wider policing umbrella."