HC Deb 23 May 1974 vol 874 cc267-8W
Mr. Loveridge

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the latest figures for the strength of the Royal Ulster Constabulary; and by how many this figure falls short of establishment.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

On 20th May 1974 the strength of the RUC was 4,455 men and women and the authorised establishment 5,235.

Mr. Loveridge

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further steps he is taking to increase the strength of the Royal Ulster Constabulary, and also to improve the balance in the numbers of officers who are members of the minority religion in the Province; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

The RUC recruiting branch, supported by the Police Authority for Northern Ireland, is running a sustained advertising and recruiting campaign in Northern Ireland, involving local and national Press and television, aimed at stimulating recruitment amongst all sections of the community. A new cadet corps is also being set up, and a team of full-time police recruiting officers is in constant contact with careers masters and youth employment officers.

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