§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the establishment of the Cheshire police force on 31 March; what was the actual strength on that date; to what factors he ascribes the difference between the two figures; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe authorised establishment of the Cheshire constabulary is 1,845, an increase of 40 since May 1979. The strength of the force was 1,799 on 31 March 1985. Police manpower levels fluctuate from month to month because of different recruiting and wastage patterns, seasonal changes and other local reasons. I understand that the force is in the process of recruiting more officers.