§ 38. Mr. Robert Cookeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the last occasion on which the pay of a police constable conformed with the Willink formula; what has been the shortfall in each succeeding year; and what is the difference between the present pay scale and the Willink formula.
§ Mr. CallaghanAs the answer is somewhat complicated, I will write to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Robert CookeI am grateful for that reply. Should the right hon. Gentleman find that there are unfortunate consequences due to falling behind the Willink formula, will he look at the matter urgently?
§ Mr. CallaghanIt is important that there should be a proper level of pay for the police and procedure is laid down under which there will be negotiations for such an increase in the next 12 months. This is particularly important because a big programme of recruitment of police is under way. In the light of requests made to me by local authorities for more police to be recruited next year, I am able to meet all demands of those they wish to recruit provided they reach the required standard.