§ Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received from the Dorset police authority regarding the level of the police establishment in the county; what response he has given; and if he will make a statement.
10W
§ Mr. HurdThe Dorset police authority applied in March 1983 for an increase of 11 police posts in the authorised establishment of the force for the financial year 1983–84. The application was not approved because Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary considered there was scope for greater use of civilians in the force. This would release more police officers for operational duties at less cost. A total of 19 additional police posts had been approved for the force for the previous two financial years, bringing the authorised establishment to its present level of 1,183. We hope that the police authority will continue its progress in civilianisation of posts now held by police officers.