asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he proposes to implement the changes in the disciplinary arrangements for chief constables set out in the consultative document issued by the Home Office last December; and whether he will make a statement.

Having taken account of the comments which have been received from the Association of County Councils, the Association of Metropolitan Authorities and the Association of Chief Police Officers of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, I am not convinced of the need for legislation on the lines indicated in the consultative document. I am, however, asking the associations to let me know of any changes or improvements in the disciplinary arrangements for chief constables which they would regard as desirable within the existing statutory framework.