§ Mr. MARTINasked if, in connection with the Coronation extra work, the Corn; missioner of Police will endeavour to give a preference to retired policemen who are out of employment?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLPensioners were invited to volunteer for service during the pressure of work at the time of the Coronation, and arrangements have now been made with all those whose assistance will be required. The men engaged must, of course, be suited for the particular work to which they are to be assigned, and have been chosen on this principle. It is understood that most of the men are not engaged in other employments.
Captain PEELasked the President of the Board of Education if it has been decided to regard 22nd and 23rd June as holidays for the Coronation in elementary schools in the country?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Runciman)The matter is one for local education authorities, not for the Board of Education. In view, however, of His Majesty's expressed wish that the children in public elementary schools should receive a week's holiday in honour of the Coronation, the Board of Education have informed local education authorities that any diminution in the total number of meetings of a public elementary school in the current year, below the number required by the Code, occasioned by such a holiday shall not involve any reduction or the grant paid by the Board.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIn the elementary schools will the right hon. Gentleman see that the local authorities make proper provision for feeding necessitous children?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am afraid I have no power to do that.
§ Mr. W. THORNEWill the right hon. Gentleman make application to the King to ask him to issue his Royal prerogative?