Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by David TC Davies (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 20 July 2005 on behalf of the Wales Office.

Police (Misconduct Allegations)

Question: The Minister will be well aware that 13 police officers remain suspended at a cost of around £300,000 a year. Other cases have collapsed owing to lack of evidence. The clerk to the North Wales police authority has been cleared of misconduct by the courts, but has still not been reinstated. Does the Minister agree that the situation is wholly unsatisfactory, is costing large amounts of taxpayers' money and is reducing the number of police officers available to deal with the rise in crime for which his Government are responsible?

Answer: It would obviously be wrong for me to comment on any case that is currently under investigation, but the hon. Gentleman specifically mentioned the clerk to the North Wales police authority. Mr. Peter Bolton was offered reinstatement earlier this month, but is currently taking legal advice before deciding whether to accept. It is possible that the matter could be taken to court, and it would therefore be wholly inappropriate for me to comment.

Secondary information