HL Deb 15 July 1998 vol 592 cc31-2WA
Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In respect of motorised police escorts in London:

  1. (a) who is responsible for authorising particular escorts;
  2. (b) under what circumstances such police escorts may clear the road of other traffic to ease the passage of the escorted vehicle;
  3. (c) what categories of persons may receive such escorts;
  4. (d) for each of the last 12 months, how many escorts have been undertaken;
  5. (e) what was the cost of the escorts; and
  6. (f) what were the sources of funding of the escorts.
[HL2585]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office (Lord Williams of Mostyn)

The provision of vehicular escorts is an operational matter for the Commissioner. However, the Commissioner tells me that the responsibility for authorising particular escorts rests with a designated officer within the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Group.

The facilitation of escorted vehicles through traffic is to permit uninterrupted progress in order to maintain the security of those escorted. The method of escort is determined by circumstances. The intention is to minimise danger to other road users and to conduct the escorts in a manner which minimises inconvenience.

Persons who may receive escorts are those subject to security arrangements and prisoners where such escorts are considered necessary.

The Commissioner tells me that the number of escorts undertaken in the months between June 1997 and May 1998 were:

1997

  • June: 238
  • July: 246
  • August: 88
  • September: 155
  • October: 96
  • November: 275
  • December: 400

1998

  • January: 116
  • February: 122
  • March: 415
  • April: 741
  • May: 218
The Commissioner tells me that the cost of escorts between June 1997 and May 1998 was £1,777,295.

The Metropolitan Police is funded through the police grant, which includes an element based on the number of security posts. In addition, the Metropolitan Police receives £151 million as a special payment in recognition of its role as capital city and its national functions. This is paid as 100 per cent. Home Office grant.