§ Dr. KumarTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what plans he has to reappraise the role of the Special Constabulary; and how many special constables there are in Cleveland; [16442]
(2) what plans he has to enable members of the Special Constabulary to receive increased remuneration. [16443]
§ Mr. Denham[holding answer 20 November 2001]: The number of serving special constables in Cleveland police as at 31 March 2001 was 93.
The Government are committed to increasing the special constabulary. While voluntary service to the community is a key element of the special constabulary, we are currently reviewing, as part of the police reform process, the allowances paid to special constables.
We are also considering a number of other options for achieving radical improvements in the conditions of service and the management of special constables, to ensure that specials are deployed effectively and provide an increased visible presence in our communities.