HC Deb 03 March 1983 vol 38 c184W
37. Mr. Aitken

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total number of police officers in England and Wales at the latest available date; and what was the equivalent figure in May 1979.

Mr. Mayhew

On 31 December 1982 the total strength of the police service in England and Wales was 120,951. This is a gain of 9,458 on the strength of 111,493 in May 1979.