§ 27. Dr. A. Glynasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consultations he has had with the local authorities concerned on the need to empower the Metropolitan Police to patrol private roads and paths on local authority housing estates in London; what conclusions he has come to; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. David Renton)The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis has had consultations with representatives of the London County Council, and is arranging for certain patrolling of the council's housing estates. No special power is required.
§ Dr. GlynWhile thanking my hon. and learned Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that considerable anxiety has arisen from the fact that the L.C.C. has already said that it is empowered to do this, but so far no agreement has been reached? Is my hon. and learned Friend also aware that Wandsworth Borough Council, which is the largest borough in London, has already arranged an amicable agreement with the police whereby their estates are patrolled?
§ Mr. RentonThe disposition of the police force is a matter for the Commissioner of Police, and it is open to any local authority within the Metropolitan Police area to make an approach to the Commissioner.