asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why on 23 October 1978 the actual strength of the regular force of the Derbyshire constabulary was 12·1 per cent. below its authorised establishment.

In March 1976, when the force had only three vacancies, the establishment was increased by 150, 8·78 per cent. of the new establishment. 30 of these vacancies were filled by August 1976. Difficulties over recruitment and wastage then caused the strength to fall, and the situation did not improve until June 1978. Since then the force has gained 13, and I hope will now make further progress.