§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what percentage of the total Metropolitan police budget for 1984–85 is spent on the activities of the Special Branch; and what proportion of the total cost is met by London ratepayers.
§ Mr. BrittanThe estimated cost of the Metropolitan police Special Branch in 1984–85 is £15.5 million which represents about 1.8 per cent. of the estimated gross revenue expenditure of the force. The London ratepayers' contribution to Metropolitan police costs is normally some 25 per cent. But, in view of the branch's national responsibilities, it is one of the services recognised by the Government through the imperial and national services grant, which reduces the cost to London ratepayers.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the current establishment of the Metropolitan police Special Branch; and if he will list the numbers employed in each rank.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe Metropolitan police Special Branch at present numbers 408 police officers and 119 civilians. For operational reasons, it is not the practice to disclose details of the rank structure of the branch.