§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received about the proposal to relocate the District Training Centre for probationer constables in Durham away from the North East; what factors underlay this proposal; and if he will consult with local parties on this matter. [41467]
§ Mr. MichaelMy right hon. Friend has received correspondence from Councillor George Gill, the Chairman of the Northumbria Police Authority and from eight right hon. or hon. Members who have written in support.
The future of probationer training in the North East is under examination in the light of the forthcoming expiry of the lease of the present site at Durham in December 1999 and against the background of the demand for probationer training places generally. A working group composed of representatives of the Association of Police Authorities, the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), the police staff associations, National Police Training (NPT) and the Home Office, has been set up to consider NPT's accommodation requirements in the North East and more generally, and to make recommendations. No final decision has been made and there is no preconceived view that probationer training should not take place in the North East. The working group, whose members include the Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary, will take full account of the views of the police authorities and forces in the North East. The correspondence from Councillor Gill has also been circulated to the working group.
In view of the approaching expiry of the lease for the site at Durham, it was considered right to make plans on the basis that the centre would then close. However, the working group will consider any proposals which may be made for an extension of the lease alongside any other options which may emerge. In doing so, they will take account of the shortcomings in the facilities at the centre and the cost of the premises compared to alternatives, including the possibility of a Public Private Partnership.