§ Mr. Chichester-Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many local authorities have received loan sanction to undertake new construction work by direct labour in respect of police stations in each of the last four years; how many projects were completed in each year; and what was the total value of the contracts.
§ Mr. SharplesI regret that this information is not readily available and could not be obtained without disproportionate effort and cost.
§ Mr. William Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for a report from the Chief Constable of Warwickshire and Coventry Police Force on the personnel deficit in the force and on the action which is being taken to remedy that deficiency; and if he will make a statement thereon.
§ Mr. SharplesAgainst an authorised establishment of 1,815, the strength of the force at the end of 1970 was 1,419.36W Recruiting is being assisted by a substantial increase in national publicity, and by support in the local campaign in the area of the force. As regards pay, negotiations are now in progress in the Police Council for new rates, payable from 1st September, 1970; and the Police Council is examining what special increases are justified by the problems of the police, in particular the need to improve recruitment and reduce wastage.