HC Deb 15 July 1914 vol 64 cc1925-7
92. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked if it is proposed to take steps to bring the conditions of labour and rates of pay of the lower ranks of the Royal Irish Constabulary into line with the considerable improvements granted recently as regards rate of pay, etc., in other important police services in England?

Mr. RUSSELL

My right hon. Friend is taking steps with a view of having the recommendations generally of the Committee carried into effect with the least possible delay, but he is not prepared to make any further statement in the matter.

93. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked what are the respective salaries, including the value of any emoluments, which may be allowed, of the district constabulary inspectors for Youghal and Galway; what is the number of stations in each district; and have any steps yet been taken to redistribute and reorganise the constabulary, as recommended by the Vincent Commission in 1901, with a view to proportioning staff to correspond with the necessities of area and population?

Mr. RUSSELL

The Inspector-General informs me that the pay and allowances, including lodgings, servants, and forage allowances, of the district inspectors at present at Youghal and Galway, are £360 and £410, respectively. There are four stations in Youghal District, and fourteen in Galway District. Reductions in the number of constabulary stations and of districts have been carried out from time to time since 1901 as circumstances permitted. At the beginning of the present year the number of ordinary stations had been reduced by about 120, while the districts were sixteen less than in 1901.

Mr. F. HALL

Is it not the fact that in country Carlow where there are sixteen stations there is one county inspector and two sub-inspectors, while in Cork there are a greater number of stations and fewer inspectors?

Mr. RUSSELL

If the hon. Member puts down a question my right hon. Friend will be glad to answer it.

95. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked what is the commencing rate of pay of men joining the Royal Irish Constabulary as constables, the rate after four years' service, and the maximum rate; and what increase these rates represent compared with those obtaining ten years ago?

Mr. RUSSELL

The commencing rate of pay of a constable is at present £54 12s. per annum; after four years' service, £57 4s.; while the maximum rate of that rank is £72 16s. As compared with ten years ago, the maximum rate has been increased by 1s. per week (from £70 4s. to £72 16s.), but the other rates have remained unchanged.

Mr. F. HALL

Is it not the fact that the commencing rate of pay of a member of the Royal Irish Constabulary is 15s. per week, and not as the right hon. Gentleman stated £54 per year?

Mr. RUSSELL

I think the hon. Member will find that the figures in the answer are quite accurate.