§ 6. Mr. John Carlisleasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what response he has made to the chief constable of Bedfordshire's request for an additional 30 policemen on approved establishment.
§ Mr. WhitelawThe Bedfordshire police authority has been informed that I am prepared to approve an increase of five police officer posts.
§ Mr. CarlisleI thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that, before the figures were announced, the Bedfordshire establishment was 43 short of the proposed figure? Is he further aware that during the first three months of this year crime in Bedfordshire rose by 12 per cent. compared with last year and that the detection rate has fallen substantially? Therefore, will he give special consideration to Bedfordshire, because of its special problems, and increase the figure with a view to trying to combat the rising crime rate in the county?
§ Mr. WhitelawI am sure that my hon. Friend realises that I have to balance the considerations of all police authorities throughout the country. Bedfordshire police strength has increased by 84 since the Conservative Party came to power. Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary considers that there is scope in Bedfordshire for greater use of civilians to fill posts at present held by police officers. That will increase the number of officers available for operational duties. I hope that it will be able to do that.