§ 61. Mr. Hunterasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will give further consideration to an increase in the establishment of the Hampshire constabulary; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggIt is the responsibility of the Hampshire police authority to determine the authorised establishment of the force, subject to my right hon. Friend's approval. In August 1986, 21 additional police posts were approved for the force, meeting in full the last application by the police authority. We have not received an application for a further increase in the force establishment, but applications for increases will be considered on the basis of proven needs and in the light of advice from Her Majesty's inspectors of constabulary.