§ 22. Mr. Wattsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what criteria he uses to determine the appropriate level of police manpower.
§ Mr. Giles ShawMy right hon. Friend considers applications for increases in police establishments on the basis of the demonstrated needs of police forces, and in the light of advice from Her Majesty's inspectors of constabulary. Among the factors which he takes into account are the current number of police officers and civilian staff; the purpose for which the additional posts are needed; the scope for redeployment of police officers and greater use of civilian staff; the population size and distribution; the level of crime; and the particular policing responsibilities of the area.