To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many hand-held computers have been issued to police officers; and how many police forces have received funding for hand-held computers from her Department in the last two years; (269238)

All police forces in England, Scotland and Wales have received funding. A total of 31,607 hand held devices had been issued at 30 March 2009. All of the devices have been issued to officers performing front line roles, many of whom will be undertaking patrol duties. The operational duties of the officers receiving the devices are a matter for the chief officer of the force concerned.