§ 70. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the Home Secretary whether he will give the number of men serving in the Metropolitan Police who are within the enlistment age; and whether he can see his way to allow a further number of these men to enlist in the New Armies?
§ Mr. McKENNAI regret I cannot give the number of men serving in the Metropolitan Police according to ages. To collect this information would entail much labour. The Commissioner of Police has been in close consultation with the War Office and Admiralty and has left nothing undone to meet all their requirements. He will continue to give them all the assistance in his power.
§ 71. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Home Secretary if he can state how many of the Metropolitan Police have been superannuated since August last; and whether any of them have been prevented from taking up duties in any capacity?
§ Mr. McKENNASeven hundred and seventy-seven men have left the Metropolitan Police from all causes since the outbreak of war. As regards their subsequent employment, they are free agents and the Commissioner has no information as to the work they may have taken up.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all these superannuated policemen since the War are being prevented from following any kind of employment of a useful purpose?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am unaware of the circumstances stated by my hon. Friend. We have no control over them once they leave the force.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these men have offered their services and have been refused, and at the same time old superannuated men have been taken on, getting £2 10s. a week other than their pensions?
§ Mr. McKENNAI know nothing of the cases referred to.