§ 35. Mr. Allaunasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that in addition to the appointment of policemen as J.P.s in Jamaica, ex-police officers are regularly appointed as J.P.s immediately on retirement from the police force; to what extent this is done with his approval; and if he will take steps to end such a system of appointments.
§ Mr. ProfumoI know that some retired police officers have been appointed as J.P.s in Jamaica, but on grounds of personal suitability and not of their previous office. The appointments are entirely within the Governor's discretion and do not require my right hon. Friend's approval. My right hon. Friend can see no grounds for intervention.
§ Mr. AllaunSince law and order is a reserved subject under the Minister's control, will he cause amending legislation to be introduced in Jamaica forthwith?
§ Mr. ProfumoNo, Sir. I can see no reason for doing so.
§ 43. Mr. Allaunasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress he 1130 has made towards ending the system of commissioning policemen as justices of the peace in Jamaica.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI have nothing to add at present to my reply to the hon. Member's Question on 23rd January. I understand, however, that the Government of Jamaica hope to reach a decision shortly, and I will inform the hon. Member as soon as they have done so.
§ Mr. AllaunDoes not the Minister think it highly improper that justices should adjudicate in cases presented by their colleagues or subordinates? Has he not some power in this matter?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydIt is always interesting to see those Members most anxious for self-government trying to get the Secretary of State to interfere in a field which is a matter entirely for the local inhabitants.
§ Mr. KershawWill my right hon. Friend agree that the police force in Jamaica is a very fine body of men and commands the confidence of the whole island?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydCertainly, Sir.