§ 40. Mr. A. SHORTasked whether any instructions have been issued to local police authorities to raise a new body of special police from ex-service men, or whether it is within his knowledge that any such action is being taken; and, if so, can he state the purpose in view and the use to which it is proposed to put these special police?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe answer is in the negative. It is not proposed to raise any new body of special police, but I have asked the chief constables to strengthen as far as possible the reserve of special constables which was organised some years before the War, and which did such excellent service during the War. The force exists to assist in the preservation of order and the prevention of crime.
§ Mr. A. SHORTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the chief constables are making special appeals to ex-service men?
§ Mr. SHORTTIt is quite likely. They are taking what steps they can to try and strengthen their force.