HL Deb 13 December 1984 vol 458 cc422-3WA
Lord Inglewood

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they understand police authorities to be satisfied with a situation whereby they can lose 10 per cent. of their uniform strength to other authorities over a period of several months, and if so, whether this can take place without loss of efficiency.

The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Elton)

Police authorities understandably regret the inevitable loss of service resulting from the voluntary provision by their chief officers of help to other forces to police the miners' dispute but we believe that most recognise that such assistance is necessary.

Lord Inglewood

asked her Majesty's Government:

Whether some police authorities accept current weak police cover over large parts of their area following the transfer of up to 10 per cent. of their strength or more to other areas.

Lord Elton

Whether, and, if so, how much, help should be provided to other forces is a matter for the operational judgment of the chief officer. It is for him to decide whether other steps are necessary for policing his area, such as increased overtime, greater use of the Special Constabulary and cancelling training courses.

Lord Inglewood

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What guidance has been given by the Home Office to police authorities faced with requests from other police authorities for substantial reinforcements, and how they can be met without loss of efficiency.

Lord Elton

It is for chief officers, not police authorities or the Government, to decide whether to ask for help from another force and whether to provide such help when it is requested.