HC Deb 02 March 1920 vol 126 cc258-9
75. Mr. DOYLE

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the many attacks on policemen and detectives during the last 12 months, where several officers have either been killed or wounded, he will consider the advisability of arming officers engaged on night duty with revolvers.

Mr. SHORTT

The Regulations of the Metropolitan Police provide for officers engaged on night duty being allowed to carry revolvers for purposes of self-defence, if they so desire and can be trusted in their use. Very few officers wish to carry revolvers, and it would not be safe to entrust them except to men thoroughly trained in handling and firing them.