HC Deb 23 March 1914 vol 60 cc16-7
26. Colonel BURN

asked if it has been arranged that the police in the Metropolis, the boroughs, and the counties are to be given one day's rest in seven?

Mr. McKENNA

In the Metropolitan Police District the Act has been in full operation for nearly a year. As regards other forces, it has not been found possible to give full effect to the provisions of the Act in all cases, but I am informed that satisfactory progress has been made in this direction throughout the country. The hon. and gallant Member will bear in mind that to give full effect to the Act requires a very considerable increase in the strength of the different forces.

Colonel BURN

May I ask if, in the case of those constables who have been on duty out of their turn on Sundays and other days in the event of disturbances, that time is made up to them?

Mr. McKENNA

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman referring to the Metropolitan Police Force or the boroughs?

Colonel BURN

Metropolitan Police.

Mr. McKENNA

That does not arise out of the question, because it has been in full operation in the Metropolitan Police district for nearly a year, and, as I have frequently explained in the House, when- ever constables are called upon to do special duty, so far as possible arrangements are made to make up the time for them on other occasions.

Colonel BURN

Do they get it made up?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes, so far as possible arrangements are made that they shall get it.

Mr. F. HALL

If the police are entitled to one day's rest in seven, is it not the fact that, if they are called upon to perform special duty on that day, the day really belongs to them and should be given to them without question?

Mr.McKENNA

It is given to them. I cannot say that it is given absolutely immediately on every occasion, but every opportunity is taken in order to make good any time that is taken.