§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the progress made in developing the experiment of special parish constables, giving numbers appointed, their terms and conditions and geographical areas covered.
§ Mr. Charles WardleThere are 20 schemes involving parish special constables already in operation around the country with more in development. The number of special constables involved varies from scheme to scheme. In most schemes existing special constables have volunteered to be redeployed for the purpose, although some forces have started a recruitment programme to persuade volunteers to train specifically for such work.
Parish special constables are appointed under the same terms and conditions as other special constables and as such are under the operational control of their chief constable. However, the local parish council, or councils, is consulted about some of the duties that the parish special constable might perform, and about particular local concerns.
The size of the geographical area covered by parish special constables will vary from community to community. In general we have recommended that the schemes stay closely linked to parish boundaries. However, this is a matter for chief constables to decide after consultation with the communities involved.
§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has had about the value of special parish constables from(a) the Police Federation, (b) chairmen and members of police authorities, (c) hon. Members and (d) members of the public in the areas currently affected by the experiment.
§ Mr. Charles WardleNo such representations have been received.