§ 55. Mr. TURTONasked the Home Secretary whether he is prepared to direct a uniform gratuity to Metropolitan Police officers and constables who, having qualified for pension, are retained in the force in accordance with the provisions of the Police (Emergency) Acts?
§ Sir G. CAVEAs regards the Metropolitan Police this has been done. I would refer the hon. Member to my written answer of the 14th February last. As regards the county and borough police, I have no power to order any such payment to be made out of local police funds.
§ 56. Mr. TURTONasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, owing to the amount of additional work occasioned by the War that has now to be performed by the Metropolitan Police, many officers and constables are showing signs of strain, and that it is necessary they should be granted such leave of absence as is possible under the circumstances, but the expense of travelling by train is now so prohibitive that they are unable to take advantage of it to the full; and whether, as the police are largely assisting in military work, he will arrange that they should be treated in the same manner as other members of His Majesty's Forces and granted the privilege of a return ticket at single fare when proceeding on leave?
§ Sir G. CAVEI would refer the hon. Member to the replies given by the President of the Board of Trade on the 7th and 21st ultimo. With regard to the Metropolitan Police, while they have undoubtedly felt the strain of additional war duties, it is right to say that with few exceptions their hours have not been lengthened, and there is less sickness in the force than at this time last year?