§ MR. FLYNN (Cork County, N.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the proceedings at Beaconsfield Petty Sessions on the 7th instant, at which two men were sentenced to six weeks' imprisonment in connection with riotous proceedings at High Wycombe on 26th ultimo; whether he is aware that Police Constable Wright was maltreated on this occasion; and whether, in view of the number of cases in England of police constables injured in the discharge of their duty, the Home Office will introduce legislation with a view to obtain some compensation for wounded policemen charged on the locality.
§ *THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Ritchie,) CroydonThe cost of police is in England a local charge, and pensions and gratuities given to policemen injured in the discharge of duty come from local funds. No change in the law appears to me necessary.
§ MR. FLYNNWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of adopting the Irish system in these matters?
§ *MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLWhy not?