§ 41. Rev. Ian PaisleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the implications for security in Northern Ireland of recruitment to the Royal Ulster Constabulary.
§ Mr. Tom KingThe Royal Ulster Constabulary has no difficulty in attracting the necessary number of high calibre recruits required to maintain the level of manpower in the force at its full establishment. Last year 4,872 applications were received for the regular force, a substantial increase on previous years, with 246 officers appointed including 17 graduates. 3,909 applications were received for the full-time reserve with 403 appointed. The increased establishment of 250 officers, announced on 6 May 1987, was reached by 31 January 1988.