§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has any plans to increase the number of traffic wardens in London; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydThe strength of the Metropolitan police traffic warden service has for some years remained well below the authorised ceiling because of difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff. Special pay additions were introduced in 1989 to help tackle this, and strength is now picking up, with 100 more wardens at the end of 1990 than a year before. Negotiations are currently in progress between the Metropolitan police management and traffic warden unions about a restructuring package which will improve career, pay prospects and management of the service.
My right hon. Friend has authorised an increase in the authorised ceiling for the service of 200 in 1991–92, bringing it up to 1,800.