HC Deb 17 December 1981 vol 15 cc184-5W
Mr. Deakins

asked the Secetary of State for the Home Department what factors now prevent the Metropolitan Police reaching its establishment.

Mr. Whitelaw

The main limiting factor is the capacity of the available training facilities, but it is also important for the force to maintain a reasonable balance between probationers and more experienced officers. Strength has increased by more than 2,800 since May 1979.