HC Deb 29 March 1889 vol 334 cc1149-50
MR. PICKERSGILL

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he would issue a Police Order prohibiting the use of what is known as the "frog's march" as a means of conveying a prisoner to the station? It would probably save time if the right hon. Gentleman would say whether he had yet received the Medical Report in the case of Samuel Mahoney?

MR. MATTHEWS

I am not prepared to prohibit altogether the use of what is called the "frog's march," which is had recourse to only when it is absolutely necessary, in order to enable the police to convey to the station exceptionally violent, drunken, or disorderly men. The Commissioner of Police would be glad to receive any practicable suggestion as to any safer way in which the police can perform their duties under such exceptional circumstances.

MR. H. GARDNER (Essex, Saffron Walden)

Would it not be possible to employ a stretcher in such cases?

MR. MATTHEWS

It would be perfectly possible to employ a stretcher, but I doubt whether great violence might not have to be used to get the man down.

SIR W. FOSTER (Derby, Ilkeston)

By the use of a stretcher, all the danger following on the "frog's march" would be avoided.

MR. MATTHEWS

I can only repeat the assurance that the Chief Commis- sioner would be glad to receive and consider any practical suggestions on the subject.

MR. PICKERSGILL

I beg to give notice that on an early opportunity I will call further attention to the matter.