asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how much the police contribute to their pensions; what is the present rate of pension for each rank; how long they must serve before being eligible; whether their pensions are linked to the cost of living; and whether there is any reduction if they take other jobs.

A policeman contributes 7 per cent. and a policewoman 5 per cent. towards pension. The amount of pension depends on service and remuneration, but a full pension after 30 years' service is forty-sixtieths of pensionable pay and, on the maximum of the scale for each rank, would be:

	£
Constable	2,268
Sergeant	2,640
Inspector	3,076
Chief Inspector	3,524
Superintendent	4,640
Chief Superintendent	5,234

A pension of thirty-sixtieths is payable on retirement after 25 years' service and after five years' service a deferred pension is payable at age 60. Pensions are subject to increases on annual review under the Pensions (Increase) Act 1971.Pensions are not reduced on taking up other employment.