HC Deb 20 December 1928 vol 223 cc3192-3
3. Mr. DAY

asked the Home Secretary in which of the suburbs in the Metropolitan police district it is proposed to introduce the new and improved type of telephone police call-box; and can he state the number it is proposed to erect in each of the districts?

8. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLE

asked the Home Secretary whether it is proposed to instal in the new year a system of police telephone boxes in the Metropolitan police area; and, if so, in what divisions a beginning will be made?

Sir V. HENDERSON

It is proposed to instal in the Richmond sub-division 23 police boxes, and in the Wood Green sub-division 20.

Mr. DAY

Can the hon. and gallant Member say whether arrangements will be made for any motor service to these boxes from the police department for the police using the boxes, who may require urgent help?

Sir V. HENDERSON

My right hon. Friend answered that question the other day.

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

When considering the particular form of boxes to be instituted, will the Department take their pattern from the boxes instituted by the Chief Constable of Newcastle, which is in operation in other parts of the country?

Sir V. HENDERSON

My right hen. Friend informed my hon. Friend the other day that he would keep that matter in mind.

Sir FRANK MEYER

Is there any truth in what has been stated in the Press that these boxes will be available to the public for use, in ringing up the police stations, and, if so, how will it be possible to prevent abuse of these facilities?

Mr. SPEAKER

Ministers cannot be held responsible for what appears in the Press.

Sir V. HENDERSON

I will consider that question.

Mr. DAY

Will these telephones be direct lines, or on the public exchange?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I cannot answer that question without notice.

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