HC Deb 04 August 1971 vol 822 cc1575-6
30. Sir J. Gilmour

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the latest figure of shortage of personnel in the Scottish Police Forces.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

On 30th June last there were 669 vacancies in the regular police force in Scotland, 209 fewer than a year before.

Sir J. Gilmour

I welcome the increase, but will my hon. Friend take steps to publicise the shortfall in such a way as to bring the police force to full strength in the shortest possible time?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

As my hon. Friend knows, we are reviewing police force establishments and hope that this will help, but my hon. Friend must appreciate that one of the greatest difficulties is in Glasgow where many of the vacancies occur. But we hope to help through a co-ordinated recruiting campaign this autumn.