HC Deb 20 December 1994 vol 251 cc1198-9W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement concerning the establishment level of the North Wales police authority.

Mr. Maclean

The approved establishment of the North Wales police is 1,369. This represents an increase of 90 posts since 1979. The increase is in line with those received by other police forces. As from 1 April next year, formal approval of establishments will end, and complement levels will be entirely for local decision.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what revenues he has made available to the North Wales police authority to enable it to develop its school liaison and community-based projects; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maclean

No specific funding has been made available for these purposes. The police service undertakes a range of work in schools and the community, in order to foster good relations between the police and young people. It is for the chief constable to determine the deployment of resources to meet the various responsibilities of the North Wales police.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will increase the allocation of funds to the North Wales police authority so that it may recruit officers, special constables and civilians.

Mr. Maclean

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to a question by him on 8 December at columns567-68.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department by what percentage the North Wales police authority's spending has been increased in the coming year; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maclean

It is the responsibility of the North Wales police authority to set the force budget for 1995–96.