HC Deb 04 December 1952 vol 508 cc1755-6
50. Mr. Higgs

asked the Secretary of State of Home Department what instructions or guidance is given to police authorities as to the price to be paid and type of car to be purchased for police patrol duties.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Police authorities have for some years past been asked to exercise the greatest care in authorising the purchase of cars of over 18 h.p. or costing more than £1,000, but otherwise the type of car selected for police patrol duties is a matter for the discretion of the individual police authority concerned.

Mr. Higgs

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that despite those recommendations, some authorities are purchasing more expensive models, and that resentment is felt when police officers are seen patrolling in luxury cars which are not altogether suited to all their duties? Will the Home Secretary consider whether the time has come when a special type of car, specially suited to police duties, might be designed?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

If my hon. Friend will give me details, I will willingly look into the matter.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman see that police cars are not so standard that malefactors will be able to recognise them a great way off?

Air Commodore Harvey

Will my right hon. and learned Friend arrange to have these cars painted with distinctive colours?

Mr. Erroll

Can may right hon. And learned Friend say whether the limit of £1,000 includes Purchase Tax?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I should think it does, but I will look into that.