§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether a date has now been set for the abolition of the district command structure and the transfer of responsibilities to the area and division headquarters in the Metropolitan police.
§ Mr. Giles ShawNo firm date has yet been fixed for the formal dismantling of the district structure, but this is expected to take place in the spring. An essential preliminary to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities and functions when the districts are finally abolished has been the setting up of the new area headquarters. Almost all the commanders designated for area posts have now moved to their new locations. Where this has involved transferring commanders from districts, the posts thereby vacated are not being filled but a chief superintendent has in each case been appointed to take responsibility for district-related functions whilst the districts remain.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to the answer of 21 November 1985, Official Report, column 272, whether he is now in a position to give the information requested in relation to any of the squads and units referred to; if he expects consultation to be completed and decisions made before the districts are abolished; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawI will reply shortly.