§ 9. Mr. Charles Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will implement the proposals on police recruitment submitted to him by the Police Federation.
§ Sir F. SoskiceThe Federation's proposals relating to pay and hours of duty are initially the concern of the Police Council for Great Britain, to which they have been referred. The remainder of the Federation's memorandum was discussed last week at a meeting of the Police Council for England and Wales under my chairmanship. It was agreed that the bodies represented on the Council should give further consideration to the matters raised with a view to further discussion.
§ Mr. MorrisonWhile thanking the right hon. and learned Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him if he agrees that one of the best ways to overcome the present shortage in the police force would be by the provision of better and more modern equipment? Will he give this aspect his closest attention?
§ Sir F. SoskiceThe provision of the best modern equipment has been for a considerable time a matter of close study by my Department.
§ Mr. SharplesIs the Home Secretary aware of the very real concern there is, I think in all parts of the House, about the subject of police recruitment? Would 719 he give an assurance that the proposals put forward by the Police Federation will have very urgent and sympathetic consideration by him?
§ Sir F. SoskiceThat was one of the objects of the meeting to which I referred. As I said, all the proposals which may be put forward will receive careful study.