12 Sep 2003 - 01 Jan 2004
Royal Parks Constabulary welcomes RIPA Order


The Royal Parks Constabulary (RPC) has today welcomed The Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Directed Surveillance and Covert Human Intelligence Sources: Additional Public Authorities) Order 2003, which was placed before Parliament yesterday, 11th September 2003.

The Order will add the RPC to the list of public authorities with statutory cover for directed surveillance.

Superintendent Derek Pollock, Chief Officer of the RPC, said, "This power will prove crucial in allowing my officers to conduct their duties and provide a safe environment for locals and visitors to The Royal Parks.

"The overall incidence of robbery and theft from the person has always been much lower in the Royal Parks than in surrounding areas. However this type of crime is particularly unacceptable within a relaxing park environment and this power will be invaluable in terms of preventing and reducing future incidents.

"What's more, the RPC operates in the heart of the capital and is responsible for areas containing or adjoining royal residences, key government buildings, high profile diplomatic premises and important military establishments. We also play a key role in policing State Ceremonials, such as Trooping the Colour and State Visits. Directed surveillance is a necessary tool for us to ensure the safety of all concerned and in the current security situation the power conferred by this RIPA Order is especially welcome."

Source:
The Royal Parks

For further information contact:
The Royal Parks Press Office T: 020 7298 2128 E: press@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Editor's notes:
The Royal Parks Constabulary is responsible for policing more than 6,000 acres of London, including Royal Parks, Gardens and other open spaces. It also plays a key role in policing State Ceremonials. The RPC is accountable, via The Royal Parks, to the DCMS and does not come under Home Office control, although it follows all Home Office police force standards, e.g. training, discipline and equipment. The RPC provides the best possible level of visible policing for London's Royal Parks, ensuring that they remain free from disturbance and the fear of crime. The RPC has over 140 officers who provide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week policing and it maintains its own specialist dog, motorcycle and mounted sections.

There were 465 crimes reported in The Royal Parks during 2002/2003 compared with 490 in 2001/2002. This is a 5.1% reduction and is the second successive year that crime levels have fallen.

The Royal Parks are: Bushy Park, Green Park, Greenwich Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Regent's Park (with Primrose Hill), Richmond Park and St James's Park.