HC Deb 13 December 1979 vol 975 cc1516-7
8. Mr. Allan Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied with the manner in which chief constables carry out their duties under the Police Act 1964; and whether he has any proposals to change the powers vested in chief constables under this legislation.

Mr. Whitelaw

I am satisfied as to the efficiency of the police forces in England and Wales and their chief constables and I believe that the functions assigned by the Police Act 1964 to chief constables remain appropriate.

Mr. Roberts

Is the Home Secretary aware of the growing concern about how remote chief constables are becoming from the people whom they serve? There is particular concern about the fact that they seem accountable to nobody—neither to the Home Secretary nor to their police authority. Concern is being expressed that they are entering the political arena, making political speeches and even becoming cult figures of the Right.

Mr. Whitelaw

It would represent a major change in the policy of the country if chief constables were in any way responsible to the Home Secretary. That would bring us close to having a national police force, which I believe the House would strongly resist. It would also interfere with local operational control, which would be unsatisfactory. Chief constables are responsible in their areas for the operational control and direction of their forces. Of course, they are generally accountable to their police authorities for the efficiency of their operations. Whether or not I agree with their comments, I believe that chief constables are entitled to make them from their own experience. I read them and listen to them, but I do not have to accept them.

Mr. Alexander W. Lyon

As the police authority for London, will the Home Secretary take a close personal interest in Operation Countryman? There are serious reports that the corruption and criminality of some officers is being concealed by senior officers. That is a worrying situation for any law-abiding citizen.

Mr. Whitelaw

The short answer to the hon. Gentleman is "Yes, Sir".