HC Deb 09 March 1966 vol 725 cc506-7W
46. Mr. Garrow

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent the police forces of Scotland are below strength; what are the figures for the four cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen, respectively; and what is the number in each force engaged in clerical and administrative duties.

Mr. Willis

At 31st December last the police in Scotland were 730 men and women short of authorised establishment; the deficiencies for Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen being 287, 116, 42 and 27, respectively. As regards the last part of the Question, some clerical work falls to all constables, and all senior officers are engaged in some form of administration. But every effort is made to ensure that, where appropriate, full-time clerical work is carried out by civilian staff.

Sir J. Gilmour

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in which five areas of Scotland the local police strength falls most below the required establishments.

Mr. Ross

The police forces with the greatest deficiencies, in numbers, at 31st December, 1965, were Glasgow, Edinburgh, Lanarkshire, Dundee and Ayrshire.