5. Dr. VERNON DAVIESasked the Home Secretary what measures are taken in the Metropolitan Police district to see that prompt and efficient first-aid is avail- 1337 able in the case of street accidents; and if he is satisfied that these measures are sufficient, bearing in mind the probability of a steady increase in these accidents owing to the rapid development of motor transport?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe main responsibility for the provision of first-aid (apart from facilities for removal to hospital) in case of street accidents must obviously rest with the police, and the importance of first-aid training is fully recognised. Under present arrangements every recruit entering the Metropolitan Police receives instruction in first-aid and ambulance drill and is required to secure a certificate of proficiency in first-aid before his appointment as a constable can be confirmed. At the present time about 90 per cent. of the force possess certificates of competency, and I am not aware of any reason for thinking that the existing arrangements are in any respect insufficient.
Dr. DAVIESCan my right hon. Friend say whether the provision of this first-aid has necessitated any increase in the force itself?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIt is quite impossible to say exactly where an increase of the force arises. There may be a few more men, but I think that, on the whole, there has been no actual increase because of this.
§ Mr. HARRISIs this the most satisfactory way of dealing with the matter? Would it not be better to deal with it through the improved motor ambulance service supplied by the London County Council?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI should be very glad if the London County Council would assist me.
§ Dr. SALTERCan the right hon. Gentleman state whether every policeman on duty is supplied with first-aid equipment for immediate use?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI must have notice of that question.