§ 41. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether any men of Army age and standard have been taken on by the Metropolitan Police since the commencement of the War; and, if so, will he take steps to enlist only older men for the police, or keep the vacant places for time-expired soldiers, and arrange for those already enlisted to join the Army if they wish?
§ Mr. McKENNAOwing to the withdrawal of reservists and enlistments, the Force is very considerably under authorised strength, whilst its duties and responsibilities have been greatly increased. Recruitment is being made on a scale only just sufficient to replace ordinary wastage. The Commissioner of Police does not think it practicable to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion: but a large number of police pensioners have been recalled for temporary service, and will retire again at the end of the War.