§ Mr. David AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the effect of his Department's policies on the residents of Bournemouth since 1992, with special reference to the effects of changes in the resources provided in real terms. [14950]
§ Mr. HowardSince 1979, spending on Dorset police has increased by 112 per cent. in real terms. Next year, 1997–98, Dorset police will be able to increase its spending by 3.9 per cent.—£2.7 million. Spending would then be over 16 per cent. higher in real terms than it was in 1992–93. By March 1997, it is estimated that there will be 142 more police officers in Dorset than there were in May 1979–19 of whom will have been recruited in 1996–97. Last year, two schemes in Bournemouth won money in the Government's closed circuit television challenge competition: Westbourne core shopping centre, £59,000, and Moordown St. John's Church of England primary school, £5,328. There are now 58 special constables in Bournemouth.