§ 19. Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total annual expenditure on the police force; and how many policemen and women are currently employed by British police authorities.
§ Mr. BrittanTotal expenditure in England and Wales for 1978–79 was £1,161 million. On 30 September 1979, 112,491 police officers, including those in interforce units or on central service, were employed.
§ Mr. AltonIn view of the statement by the Home Secretary at Blackpool earlier this year that there would be a return to more policemen on the beat from panda cars, will he tell us when a circular will be issued to the police authorities to this effect?
§ Mr. BrittanThat is a matter that is best dealt with by the police authorities and the chief constables in question.