HC Deb 22 November 1979 vol 974 c348W
Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many members of each regional police force are members of the Special Branch; and if he will list their duties.

Mr. Rifkind

In the eight Scottish forces there are at present 97 officers engaged on Special Branch work. Their duties are a matter for the chief constables concerned but they are generally concerned with offences against the security of the State, with terrorist or subversive organisations, with assisting the uniformed police in the maintenance of order, with certain protective tasks, with keeping watch on airports and seaports and with making inquiries about aliens.