§ Miss WiddecombeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the implementation of the Airwave communications system.[159975]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeThe final operational phase of the Airwave pilot, which started on 19 March, is continuing satisfactorily despite some technical problems. The service is now available in the two Divisions of Lancashire which are the subject of the evaluation. An interim review of the pilot began on 30 April and the final evaluation will be completed within five working days of pilot completion on 17 June.
Preparations for the rollout in Greater Manchester and other forces are also progressing well and are currently on schedule.