§ 23. Mr. Gallacherasked the Home Secretary what will be the average length 1225 of duty worked by members of the Metropolitan police force during the period of the Coronation celebrations; how much will it be in excess of normal duty hours; and whether overtime rates are to be paid and alternative time off given?
§ Sir J. SimonSo far as practicable, police will work the usual eight-hour tour of duty, although the average tour to be worked on 12th May is likely to be 12 hours, and on other days overtime may have to be worked in individual cases. In accordance with the usual practice, time off in lieu of this extra duty will be given where possible, and where it cannot be given overtime allowance will be paid.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the deep feeling which exists on this question, would the Home Secretary arrange for a meeting of the policemen to be addressed by me on the subject of overtime and the steps necessary to get it stopped?
§ Sir J. SimonI really do not think there is any deep feeling, but I quite realise that the hon. Member's object would be as far as possible to allay any such feeling if it existed.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsHow much overtime have the police had to work during the last 12 months through unnecessary attendance at Communist meetings?
§ 61. Captain Stricklandasked the Minister of Pensions whether, as post offices will be closed on Wednesday, 12th May, being Coronation day, he will make arrangements whereby Army pensioners will be able to draw their pensions on Tuesday, 11th May, and thus avoid possible hardship?
§ The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)I would refer my hon. Friend to the standing instructions of the post office which provide for disability pensions falling due on a public holiday being paid in advance. A reminder to postmasters with reference to 12th May had at my suggestion already been sent by my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General.
§ 82. Captain Macnamaraasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that officers encamped in Kensington Gardens are being called upon to pay about 10s. 3d. a day messing as 1226 opposed to an average of about 3s, which they would normally be charged in their home messes; and whether he will arrange for grants to cover this extra amount, such grants not to include field allowances which are normally given in any case when officers are under canvas to cover extra expenses other than messing?
§ Major Sir George Davies (Vice-Chamberlain of the Household)I have been asked to reply. Officers camped in Kensington Gardens in connection with the Coronation who are required to pay messing charges at the rate of 10s. 3d. a day are being granted special mess allowance at the following daily rates, in addition to ration and field allowances at the normal rates:
| s. | d. | |
| Subalterns | 5 | 4 |
| Captains | 4 | 10 |
| Majors and above | 4 | 7 |