§ Mr. Simsasked the Secretary of state for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the working of the royalty protection department of the Metropolitan police; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrittanThe royalty protection department has made an important contribution to the improvement of the security of members of the royal family since it was created in July last year. Further improvements have been planned and are in process of implementation. From 1 September the royalty protection department will be merged with the diplomatic protection group under the command of the present head of the royalty protection department, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Colin Smith. The existing work of both organisations will remain largely unaffected but the integrated rank structure at higher levels will improve police effectiveness.