HC Deb 17 November 1977 vol 939 cc749-50
13. Mr. Dykes

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he next plans to meet representatives of the Police Federation for further discussions on pay and conditions of police officers.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

Following my meeting with representatives of the Police Federations on 27th October, agreement was reached on an immediate increase of 10 per cent. in pay and an independent inquiry into pay and other matters. I have no plans at present for further discussions but am, of course, ready to meet the federations again should the need arise.

Mr. Dykes

I thank the Home Secretary for that reply and I appreciate that, in view of the inquiry which is now commencing, it is difficult for him to answer specific points. However, may I ask him to be tentative, provisional and speculative and to agree that, at long last, the case for a premium for police officers in the Metropolitan area is established and proven by all the extra work that police officers have to do in the Greater London area? I refer to demonstrations, extra traffic duty, lobbies, emergency duties and all the rest. Is there not now an overwhelming case for extra premium pay?

Mr. Rees

I think that it would be wrong, given the developments that have taken place, to go into that. Lord Edmund-Davies' inquiry will consider the matter. As matters stand, there is a Metropolitan allowance and a larger rent allowance, which is effectively tax-free. As I have said, it is a matter for the inquiry.

Mr. Carlisle

Does the Home Secretary agree that the most disturbing aspect of the matter is the substantial increase in the number of qualified police officers who leave the force earlier than their normal full retirement age? Does that not underline the urgency of the Edmund-Davies Report?

Mr. Rees

There is a problem not so much of recruitment but of wastage. I cannot make a definite statement now, but I hope to announce the other members of the Lord Edmund-Davies inquiry next week.

Forward to