§ 35. Mr. Adam Hunterasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will obtain a report as to the present strength of the Fife Constabulary and by how many that police force is over- or under-strength.
§ Mr. BuchanAt 31st October, Fife Constabulary has an actual strength of 585 male and 29 female regular police officers; 17 males and 9 females below its authorised establishment.
§ Mr. HunterAccording to Press reports about five weeks ago, the position seems to have worsened. Does not my hon. Friend think that the recent increase in police pay should have improved it?
§ Mr. BuchanThere was a net increase in strength in 1967 and a further net increase from the beginning of this year. There are fluctuations from time to time throughout the year. I am sure that my hon. Friend is correct when he suggests that the recent pay award to the police should be a useful incentive to recruitment.