HC Deb 18 July 1974 vol 877 cc212-3W
23. Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will report on the current policy of his department as to the effectiveness of panda cars, as distinct from police toot patrols, as a means of both deterring and apprehending criminals.

Dr. Summerskill

The system of unit beat policing, in which panda cars are used in conjunction with area constables and foot patrols, remains one of the most effective methods of deploying manpower. Chief officers of police, who are responsible for deployment, adapt the system to meet the needs of particular localities and circumstances by, for example, increasing the number of foot partols.