§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement about progress in his decision about increasing the approved establishment of policemen in Greater Manchester.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesHer Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary has had a preliminary discussion with the chief constable about his review of organisation and establishment. A detailed examination is now being made so that the police authority can consider the chief constable's proposals in the light of comments by Her Majesty's Inspector and my officials before seeking my approval for a new establishment. The force has 470 vacancies. The present establishment does not, therefore, constitute a restraint on recruitment.
§ Mr. Clemitsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the total strength of the police force in the County of Bedfordshire in 1970, 1974 and 1977, respectively; and what is the figure for the latest date for which statistics are available.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe figures are:
politan area in 1970, 1974 and 1977, respectively; and what is the figure for the latest date for which statistics are available;
485W(2) what was the actual strength of police forces in England and Wales outside the Metropolitan area expressed as
Date Strength Authorised establishment Strength as percentage of authorised establishment 31st December 1970 … … 71,626 82,351 86.97 31st December 1974 … … 79,924 88,009 90.81 31st December 1977 … … 84,758 90,352 93.80 30th June 1978 … … 84,741 90,680 93.45