§ 5. Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many complaints against the police by members of the public were brought to the attention of his Department in each of the years 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, and in 1969 to date; and if he will break down the figures into appropriate categories of complaint.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganAny complaint made to the Home Office is referred to the appropriate chief officer of police.
The number of all complaints locally recorded against police officers in England and Wales is as follows:—
1964 (estimated) 9,870 1965 9,196 1966 8,183 1967 8,524 1968 9,998 Figures will not be available for 1969 until the end of the year.
Complaints against officers of provincial forces in 1968 which were substantiated have been analysed into categories, as follows:—
Cases leading to criminal proceedings (including traffic offences) 68 Incivility to the public 206 Minor traffic incidents not leading to court proceedings 63 Breaches of correct police procedure in dealing with incidents 324 Unnecessary use of authority 88 Unnecessary use of force 39 Miscellaneous 168
§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the breakdown by major categories of complaints against the police for the latest year for which figures are available.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganI would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given today to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Bedfordshire, South (Mr. Gwilym Roberts).
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the recent public concern about the practice of the police investigating and reporting on complaints made against them, and having power to accept 122W or reject the findings; and whether he will now introduce a system whereby investigations into alleged malpractices by the police are carried out by persons not connected with the police and/or the Home Office.
§ Mr. CallaghanI would refer my hon. Friend to the Answer I gave to an earlier Question today.