HC Deb 16 December 1999 vol 341 cc272-3W
Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the Metropolitan police force has made negligence compensation payments in the last two years to police officers who have developed a hearing loss or tinnitus as a result of their work duties. [102876]

Mr. Charles Clarke

The Receiver for the Metropolitan Police District tells me that negligence compensation payments have been paid to police officers who have developed a hearing loss or tinnitus as a result of their work duties.

Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what policies the Metropolitan police force has adopted to minimise the level of hearing loss or tinnitus caused by work duties of police officers. [102877]

Mr. Charles Clarke

The Receiver for the Metropolitan Police District tells me that the Directorate of Occupational Health provides regular audiometry testing for identified "at risk" groups: motorcyclists, firearms officers, dog handlers and Thames Division. Since 1973, Firearms Officers have been issued with ear protectors when firearms training is undertaken. A Consultant is also employed to advise on measures for protecting hearing.