§ Mr. Frank Fieldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if his inspectorate has investigated the geographical distribution of police manpower in the Merseyside police authority; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawDeployment of manpower was included in the inspection of the Merseyside police which took place in November 1985, although there was no specific investigation as described by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Frank Fieldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what criteria his inspectorate uses to ensure that the terms of section 4(a) of the Police Act 1964—maintenance of an adequate and efficient police force—are being met by the Merseyside police authority.
§ Mr. Giles ShawUnder section 38 of the Police Act 1964, Her Majesty's Inspectors of constabulary have a duty to inspect and report to my right hon. Friend on the efficiency of police forces. Inspections bring out those points relevant to a police authority's responsibilities under section 4 of the Police Act 1964 for maintaining an adequate and efficient force and for providing buildings, vehicles, clothing and other equipment.