§ 69. Mr. McEnteeasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the reports of His Majesty's inspectors of constabulary, Colonel Brook and Colonel Coke, that some forces are too small to justify the administration and are unable to provide for themselves even simple equipment; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this serious condition of affairs?
§ Mr. PeakeUnder the existing law small forces could only be amalgamated with larger units by agreement between the police authorities concerned. Where deficiencies, either of men or material, are brought to my right hon. Friend's notice by His Majesty's inspectors of constabulary, appropriate action is taken with the police authority concerned with a view to the necessary provision being made either by the authority itself or by co-operative arrangements with another force.
§ Mr. McEnteeIn view of the fact that no action has been taken by smaller authorities will legislation be introduced to see that they do amalgamate and stop the waste which is going on?
§ Mr. PeakeThe hon. Member knows that there are all sorts of difficulties connected with the question of compulsory amalgamation.
§ Mr. McEnteeIs it not time that the Government faced some of the difficulties and did something?