Oral Answers to Questions

Bob Russell Excerpts

Monday 9th February 2015 Commons Chamber

[Sir Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD)]

3. What steps she has taken to encourage people to become special constables.

[The Minister for Policing, Criminal Justice and Victims (Mike Penning)]

I am sure the whole House agrees that special constables make a vital contribution to the everyday cutting of crime in our communities. We continue to support special constables. I would like all Members to help to recruit more special constables in every one of their constituencies.

[Sir Bob Russell]

I thank the Minister and endorse his comments. May I draw his attention to a special scheme, whereby the business community works with chief constables to release members of staff so they can become fully trained special constables in a short, concentrated period of time?

[Mike Penning]

I am aware of that scheme. Employer supported policing schemes, partnerships between employers and the police forces, are available around the country. [Interruption.] From a sedentary position, I heard a Labour Member say that they are never available when one wants them. The specials do a fantastic job when other people are not available. We should commend every single one of them.