§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT details of the numbers and types of makes of the vehicles operated by police authorities in England and Wales.
§ Mr. SharplesTo meet the wide range of operational requirements police authorities in England and Wales provide an extensive range of vehicles. The information could not be assembled without disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that police authorities throughout England and Wales operate differing types of vehicles; and whether, consistent with local requirements, he will take steps to introduce a policy of rationalisation with a view to purchasing economies.
§ Mr. SharplesPolice authorities in England and Wales, in exercising their statutory responsibilities to provide and maintain vehicles, use different types according to local requirements; but my right hon. Friend will be discussing with the local authority associations the possible advantages of group purchasing.