§ 4. Mr. Wellbelovedasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he has taken since 18th June, 1970 to strengthen the forces of law and order; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Reginald Maudling)In the six months from the end of June, 1970, 3,127 officers were recruited to police forces in England and Wales and police strength rose from 92,824 to 93,748, a net increase of 924. This compares with increases of 212 and 489 in the corresponding periods in 1968 and 1969. There has been a substantial increase in national recruiting publicity and provision has been made to assist some local campaigns.
§ Mr. WellbelovedDoes the Home Secretary recall the disgraceful campaign mounted by his noble Friend, Lord Hail-sham, prior to the General Election, on the subject of law and order? Is he aware that the morale of the police force is at a very low ebb and that the delay in meeting their justifiable pay claim and his failure substantially to increase recruiting have done nothing to implement the policies put forward in that disgraceful election campaign?
§ Mr. MaudlingI totally disagree with the hon. Member's description of my 2098 noble Friend's speech and with his comment on the morale of the police.