Written question asked by Simon Hughes (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 27 June 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 July 2000. It was answered by Charles Clarke (Labour) on Thursday, 6 July 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will make a statement on the use of mobile police units to help police rural areas. - Inc figures. (Holding answer 5 July 2000).

Answer: Mr. Simon Hughes: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the use of mobile police units to help police rural areas. [128534] Mr. Charles Clarke: [holding answer 5 July 2000]: The Government welcome imaginative and innovative ways of working by the police, including the use where appropriate of mobile units. To enhance policing in rural areas we have recently announced the allocation of a specific £15 million from the Police Modernisation Fund. This will provide a significant boost to police capabilities and bring direct benefit to the countryside. How the best use is made of the resources available and how the police operate in particular local circumstances are matters for the local Chief Constable.

Secondary information