Metropolitan Police officers will be using spit hoods on suspects in a matter of weeks as a controversial pilot scheme begins in October.

The force said the decision was taken to protect officers from getting bitten or spat at, which could lead to infections.

Use of the mesh hoods will not be on the streets to begin with and instead be at 32 detention areas across the city, but could be handed to officers if it proves to be a successful scheme.

In a statement, the Met said: "The MPS does not currently use spit guards. A pilot scheme has been approved for the use of spit guards in all MPS custody units from October 2016.

"These guards will only be used in a custody situation.

"They are considered a ‘use of force’ and so officers are being trained to ensure that their use is proportionate and necessary in the circumstances.

"The use of this protective equipment is necessary to meet the duty of care owed to officers when a detainee spits at or attempts to bite them."

The Police Federation has backed the move and said spitting leaves those working in the force at risk of contracting hepatitis.

Most recent examples include at Notting Hill Carnival, where eight police officers were taken to hospital for anti-viral treatment after getting spat at whilst on duty .

'Primitive, cruel and degrading tool'

The decision has sparked controversy with human rights campaigners who argue the hood is a breach of suspects' rights.

Director of Liberty Martha Spurrier said: "A spit hood is a primitive, cruel and degrading tool that inspires fear and anguish.

"We have seen many cases where the police use them unnecessarily and without justification, including on children and disabled people.

"Police have the power to use force against citizens when they have to – using handcuffs, arm restraints, leg restraints, pepper spray, batons.

"The suggestion that officers need to be able to cover people’s faces and heads is as far-fetched as it is frightening.

"Spit hoods belong in horror stories, not on the streets of a civilised society – we urge the Met Police to think again."

However, an investigation was launched by the The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) into an arrest on July 21 after police officers tackled a man to the ground and forced a hood over his head at London Bridge station.

Amnesty International also weighed into the debate and said: "Serious questions must be asked as to whether these restraints which have been criticised for breaching human rights guidelines should actually have a role in modern British policing.

"It beggars belief that the Met police would choose to introduce these restraints in their toolkit, particularly given that so many other major British police forces have chosen to outlaw them."