§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the compatibility of the radio system used by police officers in Lancashire with the one used by the Greater Manchester police force; and what plans he has to improve the systems. [56994]
§ Mr. DenhamAs the Air wave service is rolled out across the United Kingdom, its features will be enhanced by a series of software upgrades. In mid 2003, a software upgrade will provide the potential for full national compatibility.
In Lancashire Constabulary and Greater Manchester Police, an interim arrangement has been put in place. Where appropriate, their radios are being programmed to enable officers to communicate with either force control room. The situation will be further eased by a software upgrade which will take place in September, 2002.