§ Miss Boothroydasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how far in percentage terms the West Midlands Metropolitan County Police Force is below strength; and what plans he has for recruitment.
§ Dr. SummerskillWhen the new force came into being on 1st April it was 17.5 per cent. under strength. The police committee has provided £24,000 in the current financial year to promote recruitment, which is primarily a matter for the chief constable. Measures will include Press and television advertisements, liaison with schools and employment agencies and stands at exhibitions. The force also benefits from the national recruiting campaign on which over £682,000 is being spent this year.