Scotland Yard boss Sir Paul Stephenson has said that he would not have allowed his children to attend the student fee protests in London. The senior officer said parents have a responsibility to keep youngsters away from violent clashes and out of trouble.

Sir Paul, who has three grown-up daughters, said although the "vast majority" protest peacefully they risk becoming caught up in clashes. Speaking to Nick Ferrari on LBC 97.3 radio, he added that he has a "duty and a passion" for catching those who broke the law during recent protests in the capital.

Sir Paul said: "I think parents have a responsibility. I know what I would be telling my kids. My kids would not be going on a demonstration, because I do not think it is appropriate for 13 or 14 year children - not my children.

"That is for other parents to make their decision, but in coming to that decision, they've got to look at the events that have taken place. The vast majority of people who come have come wanting to peacefully demonstrate, but regrettably, there have been people who have turned it to violence.

"Do people really want their young children exposed to that? There's a responsibility on me and there's a responsibility on parents."The Metropolitan Police was criticised after many school children were "kettled" for several hours during the second of a series of protests on November 24.

Riot squad officers moved in to stop thousands of protesters swamping Parliament Square, leaving many penned in against their will during a bitterly cold day. Young people dressed in school uniform were also captured on camera defending a police van from attack after it was abandoned near Downing Street. Speaking on Thursday, Sir Paul urged any young people who join protests to "just stay clear of trouble".