HC Deb 03 May 1974 vol 872 cc575-6W
Mr. Edelman

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police are engaged in the Metropolitan service today compared with those so engaged five and 10 years ago, respectively; and what are the relative rates of violent crime during the same period.

Dr. Summerskill

On 31st March 1974 the total strength of the Metropolitan Police was 20,926. Corresponding numbers for 1964 and 1969 were 18,562 and 20,705, respectively.

The answer to the second part of the Question is as follows:

Violence against the person Robbery
1973 … 9,366 2,680
1969 … 7,130 2,236
1964 … 4,002 1,266

The figures relate to crimes recorded as known to the police in the Metropolitan Police District.