HC Deb 10 February 1994 vol 237 cc435-6
5. Mr. McFall

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further discussions he has had with the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Association of Chief Police Officers (Scotland) regarding the Criminal Justice Bill and the Police and Magistrates Courts Bill [Lords].

Mr. Howard

May I immediately apologise to the hon. Gentleman for the fact that he was not informed, as he certainly should have been.

I have received many representations from and have had discussions with the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Association of Chief Police Officers (Scotland) regarding the Criminal Justice Bill and the Police and Magistrates Courts Bill.

Mr. McFall

I thank the Home Secretary. The right hon. and learned Gentleman is responsible for clause 45 of the Police and Magistrates Courts Bill, which covers Scotland. This morning, I talked to two Scottish chief constables, who expressed their concerns to me about the interest that the Secretary of State for Scotland can now take in operational matters as a result of that clause. That will interfere with the independence of the police, and they are so concerned about it that they would like to pass their concerns, through me, to the Home Secretary. Will a meeting take place with the relevant Minister to assure the police that their optional independence will be maintained following the passage of Bill?

Mr. Howard

I can certainly give the assurance for which the hon. Gentleman asks in relation to the operational independence of chief constables. That is essential and it is written into the Bill in exactly the same language as is on the statute book at present in the Police Act 1964.

Sir George Gardiner

rose

Hon. Members

Two minutes!

Madam Speaker

Order.

Sir George Gardiner

Since an obvious concern of the police authorities is the safety of their officers, may I say how much Mrs. Christine Robertson—a constituent of mine—will be comforted by the sympathy which my right hon. and learned Friend has extended this afternoon on behalf of the House? Does he agree that it is only the courage and dedication to duty of officers such as Sergeant Robertson which provides the shield to protect us all?

Mr. Howard

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for the first part of his remarks and I entirely agree with the rest of what he had to say.