§ 5. Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received over the projected level of policing by the Northern Constabulary within the Highlands and Islands; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramI have had representations from hon. Members whose constituencies are in the northern police area and from many local organisations and individuals. I have also corresponded with the chairman of the joint police committee. The decision to reduce the police budget for 1985–86 was made by the joint police committee, and flowed from limitations placed by Highland regional council on its contribution to policing costs.
§ Mr. KennedyWhen will the Minister live up to his responsibility and stop trying to mislead the House on this issue? The limitations on the budget are a direct result of Scottish Office guidelines, and Highland regional council has budgeted within those guidelines. Is the Minister aware that the outcome is the proposed closure of 33 police stations in the Highlands and Islands, including 17 in my constituency? In view of that, does the Minister think that his is the party of law and order in the Highlands any more?
§ Mr. AncramOnly one guideline has been given to the Highland regional council, and that requires it to make an overall reduction of 1 per cent. in its expenditure in real terms. I find its decision to reduce the contribution to policing costs by 6.5 per cent. surprising, but it is one that it is entitled to take. In view of the strictures that the hon. Gentleman made against me and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, I point out that were we to tell local authorities what to spend on individual services, we would rightly be accused of destroying the fundamental principle of local government, which is that councils are entitled to decide their own priorities.