HC Deb 17 August 1909 vol 9 cc1081-2
Mr. REMNANT

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will arrange that those members of the Metropolitan Police Force who are employed on Sundays on point duty should be released from such duty, especially during the summer; and, if so, will be arrange that such men be immediately utilised in making a commencement in giving one day's rest in seven to members of that Force?

Mr. GLADSTONE

I am sorry that this suggestion is not a practicable one. The number of men employed on traffic points on Sunday is already reduced as far as is possible; and having regard to the partial depletion of beats on Sunday—nearly one-fourth of the men being absent on ordinary or annual leave—it is necessary to maintain the fixed points at working strength on that day.

Mr. REMNANT

Has the right hon. Gentleman made personal inquiry into this matter, or is this merely the report of the Commissioner?

Mr. GLADSTONE

I saw Sir Edward Henry yesterday.

Mr. REMNANT

Are there not some hundreds of men who can be relieved?

Mr. GLADSTONE

Not according to the information communicated to me directly by the Commissioner.