§ * CAPTAIN NORTONI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he can state whether ex-soldiers in the Metropolitan Police Force will be permitted to join the Reserve battalions about to be formed under the same conditions as other ex-soldiers; and whether they will be allowed to return to their police duties at the expiration of the twelve months, without detriment as regards pay, promotion, and pension.
§ * THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir M. WHITE RIDLEY,) Lancashire, BlackpoolA metropolitan police constable could not as the law stands join the Reserve batta- 1522 lions without ceasing to be a member of the force. Very heavy demands have been made on the strength of the force by the calling out of the Reservists. In my opinion its maintenance in sufficient strength is necessary for the protection of the public, and I am, therefore, not disposed to recommend any change in the law.