§ MR. WATT (Glasgow, College)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Chief Constables there are in the Metropolitan districts; how many of these have been raised from the ranks; what were the 846 qualifications of those who hold these-positions which caused them to be preferred to those who have spent their lives at the business; and whether he will in future, in making these appointments, refrain from bringing in outsiders unless it is impossible to find suitable candidates among those already in the force.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. GLADSTONE,) Leeds, W.There are live Chief Constables in the Metropolitan Police district, none of whom has been raised from the ranks. Their qualifications, for their duties were acquired in His Majesty's service at home and abroad. As regards future appointments, I can only say that, in the event of a vacancy, I shall not limit the area of my choice, but shall appoint the person who, in my opinion, is best filled to fill the post.
§ MR. WATTMay I ask if under the regime of the present Government the promotions from the ranks have been more numerous?