Police (Pay)

Oral Answers to Questions — Home Department – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 17 November 1977.

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Photo of Mr Hugh Dykes Mr Hugh Dykes , Harrow East 12:00, 17 November 1977

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he next plans to meet representatives of the Police Federation for further discussions on pay and conditions of police officers.

Photo of Mr Merlyn Rees Mr Merlyn Rees , Leeds South

Following my meeting with representatives of the Police Federations on 27th October, agreement was reached on an immediate increase of 10 per cent. in pay and an independent inquiry into pay and other matters. I have no plans at present for further discussions but am, of course, ready to meet the federations again should the need arise.

Photo of Mr Hugh Dykes Mr Hugh Dykes , Harrow East

I thank the Home Secretary for that reply and I appreciate that, in view of the inquiry which is now commencing, it is difficult for him to answer specific points. However, may I ask him to be tentative, provisional and speculative and to agree that, at long last, the case for a premium for police officers in the Metropolitan area is established and proven by all the extra work that police officers have to do in the Greater London area? I refer to demonstrations, extra traffic duty, lobbies, emergency duties and all the rest. Is there not now an overwhelming case for extra premium pay?

Photo of Mr Merlyn Rees Mr Merlyn Rees , Leeds South

I think that it would be wrong, given the developments that have taken place, to go into that. Lord Edmund-Davies' inquiry will consider the matter. As matters stand, there is a Metropolitan allowance and a larger rent allowance, which is effectively tax-free. As I have said, it is a matter for the inquiry.

Photo of Mr Mark Carlisle Mr Mark Carlisle , Runcorn

Does the Home Secretary agree that the most disturbing aspect of the matter is the substantial increase in the number of qualified police officers who leave the force earlier than their normal full retirement age? Does that not underline the urgency of the Edmund-Davies Report?

Photo of Mr Merlyn Rees Mr Merlyn Rees , Leeds South

There is a problem not so much of recruitment but of wastage. I cannot make a definite statement now, but I hope to announce the other members of the Lord Edmund-Davies inquiry next week.