§ Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the results achieved by mounted patrols of the Metropolitan Police in helping to protect the public in London suburban areas; which areas are being covered in this way; and what plans he has for extending these patrols.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsMounted patrols operate in the following areas:
Chigwell Hampstead Heath Woodford Ickenham Chingford Ruislip Loughton Northwood Wanstead Pinner Romford Totteridge Upminster Hadley Wood Hornchurch Radlett Harold Hill Bushey Collier Row South Mimms Snaresbrook Cheshunt Epsom Southgate Epsom Downs Esher Tadworth Claygate Walton on the Hill Thames Ditton Burgh Heath Hinchley Wood Banstead The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis informs me that the mounted patrols have a deterrent value and in particular have helped to reduce the number of complaints of indecency against women and children and of hooliganism and malicious damage.
The Commissioner has no immediate plans for extending these patrols, but will keep the matter under review.