HC Deb 20 May 1887 vol 315 cc717-8
MR. O'HANLON (Cavan, E.)

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, How many hours is supposed to constitute one day's work for the constables in and about the House of Commons; will he recommend that each constable be paid for any overtime; and, whether he will say the reasons given by Sir Charles Warren for refusing to pay them for any overtime during the last six months?

THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. STUART-WORTLEY) (Sheffield, Hallam)

(who replied) said: The Secretary of State is informed by the Commissioner of Police that the average number of hours during which police constables are employed in the House is not greater than that of men employed in other public buildings, as although they have more hours on certain days they have lighter work on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They get about 25 per cent more pay than constables employed at ordinary work, and duty in the Houses of Parliament is very eagerly sought after by members of the Force. On special occasions, when the messengers of the House receive extra pay, the Commissioner of Police recommends a similar allowance to the police on duty. He has done so within the last six months. The Secretary of State does not intend to make any recommendation to the Chief Commissioner on the subject.