HC Deb 03 April 2000 vol 347 c378W
Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the change in(a) total police strength, (b) the number of police constables and (c) the number of special constables in (i) Hampshire and (ii) each division within Hampshire, between (1) 1992 and 1997 and (2) 1997 and the latest date for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [117037]

Mr. Charles Clarke

The available information is set out in the table. I understand from the Chief Constable that as a consequence of boundary changes to the Division over the years specified and because of further boundary changes being implemented from 1 April, that will make the territorial divisions more co-terminous with local authority boundaries, it is not possible to provide information on police numbers on a divisional basis which would be comparable or helpful.

Mr. Lidington

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many detainees have been permitted temporarily to leave Oakington Detention Centre; how many have failed to return; and if he will make a statement. [117098]

Mrs. Roche

As of midnight on 30 March, no detainees had been released from the Oakington Reception Centre subject to a condition that they return there.

Mr. Lidington

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum seekers have been dispersed from Oakington Detention Centre before a decision on their case has been made; where they have dispersed to; and if he will make a statement. [117249]

Mrs. Roche

As of midnight on 30 March, one detainee had been released from the Oakington Reception Centre before a decision on his case had been made. This applicant was granted temporary admission to reside with relatives and was not dispersed under the interim dispersal arrangements.