§ 13. Captain MARTINasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that unrest and dissatisfaction exists in the Metro- 1444 politan Police force, largely due to inequality in the hours of service; that, while police constables in some districts are on duty eight hours a day, inspectors and station sergeants are on duty for twelve hours a day; and whether he can give an assurance to take such steps as may be necessary to remove this inequality?
§ Mr. SHORTTThis matter is under consideration; but it must be realised that when men accept promotion, and thereby greater responsibility and higher pay and pension, they must be prepared equally to accept the longer hours of duty that such positions demand.