§ Mr. WILLIAM THORNEasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that the cost of living, including rent, has increased in London during the past ten or fifteen years by 25 per cent.; and if he can see his way to order that the commencing rate of wages for the Metropolitan police constables be increased from the minimum of 25s. 6d. to 30s. per week, and to increase the salaries of other grades in the police force accordingly?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have no reason to think the cost of living in London has recently increased by so much as 25 per cent. Taking into account the rent aid and other allowances, a married constable in the Metropolitan Police receives a com- 903 mencing salary of 28s. or 29s. a week; and it must not be forgotten that the force is in the enjoyment of special pension privileges. Having regard to the great boon of one day's rest in seven which is now being given to the police at the cost of a very heavy charge upon the rates, I fear I cannot at the present time propose to lay any further burden on the ratepayer.
§ Mr. W. THORNEMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that many municipalities have already adopted the 30s. minimum for six days, and not for seven days?