HC Deb 05 March 1925 vol 181 cc628-9
37. Mr. HAYES

asked the Home Secretary whether the appointment of Major James, late of the British South Africa Company's police, to the chief constable-ship of Chesterfield, has been in accordance with the statutory Regulation 7, made under the Police Act, 1919, as regards age and previous approved service for purposes of pension?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes. Sir. Major Jame6 has had 21 years' service in the Rhodesian police. This does not count as approved service for purposes of pension in the Chesterfield force, but the appointment is within the Regulation.

Mr. HAYES

Is not the appointment of Major James to the rank of chief constable contrary to the spirit of the Regulations, which have been made with the object of keeping these positions open to officers of the British constabulary?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I can only say that it is within the terms of the Regulations which were made by the local authority, and I have merely to approve of it.

Mr. HAYES

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the tightening up of these Regulations so that disadvantages of this kind to British constabulary may not arise, and debar British officers from reaching the highest posts in the service?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I will consider that.