HC Deb 19 February 1912 vol 34 cc287-8
Mr. CASSEL

asked the Home Secretary whether, before the introduction of the Metropolitan Police Rate Bill, he consulted the London County Council, pursuant to the undertaking given on 19th July, 1909, by Viscount Gladstone, the then Home Secretary, to a deputation from the London County Council; if so, what were the communications that passed between the Home Office and the council, and what was the reason why the Bill was not introduced until so late as 6th December, 1911; and whether he proposes to reintroduce the Bill at an earlier period of the present Session?

Mr. McKENNA

I do not think the hon. Member can have read the full text of what Viscount Gladstone said on the occasion he mentions. If he will refer to the "Times" of 21st December last, where I quoted Viscount Gladstone's words at length, he will see that he expressly guarded himself from giving any general pledge for the future. It was unnecessary to consult the London County Council last December, as the Bill did not impose any additional charge on that authority. I introduced the Bill near the end of the Session because it then became clear to me that without additional revenue it would be impossible to continue the recruiting necessary for the grant of one day's rest in seven to the police. I propose to reintroduce the Bill at once.

Mr. CASSEL

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest the authorisation of an additional 2d. rate is not a proper matter on which to consult the local authority? Is he also aware that Lord Gladstone said that the great rating authority for London was entitled to be taken into consultation on the general question of rating?

Mr. McKENNA

No, Sir. If the hon. Gentleman will be so good as to read the whole of the speech he will find the general question of rating there referred to was not this question. I shall be very happy to furnish the hon. Gentleman with a verbatim report of Lord Gladstone's speech.

Mr. REMNANT

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to bring in this Bill in the early hours of the morning, but at a time when we can have a full discussion of the matter?

Mr. McKENNA

There is an urgency to get the Bill through. I will endeavour to bring it in at a convenient time, but, of course, the time of the House is not at my disposal.