HC Deb 25 June 1925 vol 185 cc1696-7
26. Mr. R. MORRISON

asked the Home Secretary in view of the fact that during prolonged sittings of the House many of the police constables employed within its precincts are frequently on duty for 16 hours at a stretch, if he will consider whether there is any way by which these prolonged spells of duty can be obviated?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I find that on two occasions only during the present Session have police performed duty for 16 hours or more, the number of men concerned being 12 and 26, respectively. When they are kept late arrangements are made to relieve them from their posts for short periods in addition to the interval which they are normally allowed for refreshment. Men who are not conversant with the duties cannot be used as reliefs, and as late sittings are so uncertain the keeping of a number of men on reserve duty on the chance of their being required would not be justified.

Mr. MORRISON

In view of the fact that long spells of Parliamentary duty have now been obviated in the case of members of the party to which the right hon. Gentleman belongs, will he see that a similar concession is given to the constables, who are not attached to his party?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The number of members of my party who are excused attendance is so relevantly unimportant, that I do not think so slight a concession would be of any value to the police force.

Major HORE-BELISHA

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether, unlike the Members of this House, a constable receives overtime?

Mr. HAYES

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire whether the constables would not appreciate a concession in the way of allowing them, when the House is not sitting, to take time off in a continuous period and to be absent from their duties?

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

On a point of Order. The right hon. Gentleman used the expression that members of some party were "excused attendance." Is it not a fact that, according to the Rules of the House, though they are not often enforced, leave of absence can be granted only by the House, and not by any Minister?

Mr. SPEAKER

That remark was made by one of the questioners. I am afraid that that old Rule has gone into disuse.