HC Deb 26 February 1931 vol 248 cc2258-9
31. Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING

asked the Home Secretary the number of solo motor cycles and of motor cycle combinations at present in the possession of the Metropolitan motor patrol police; and whether both types have been equally effective?

Mr. CLYNES

The number of solo machines is 50 and of combinations six. The combination machines have been found the more generally effective, the solos being less effective in the inner and more congested districts.

Mr. HACKING

Does that mean that the solo machines will be abolished and their place taken by combinations?

Mr. CLYNES

I will not say that at the moment, but we shall take into account the greater efficiency of the one compared with the other.

Captain Sir WILLIAM BRASS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the difference in speed between the two?

Mr. CLYNES

Not without notice.

Lieut. - Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

Are not these machines used for the purpose of tracking law breakers, and, if so, have they sufficient power?

Mr. CLYNES

Generally, I think so.

Sir F. HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the machines with which the police are provided are sufficient for the object they have in view?

Mr. CLYNES

That is a technical point, and I should require notice in order to go into it.

34. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN - DOYLE

asked the Home Secretary whether he will give an estimate for equipping all motor cycles used by traffic police in the Metropolitan area with sidecars, and what will be the added cost in respect of materials and personnel?

Mr. CLYNES

I understand that the cost of fitting side-cars would be about ££700–£800, and that there would be little, if any, additional cost to the Police Fund for tyres, repairs, etc., by reason of the higher rate of grant which would be received from the Road Fund for combination machines.

Sir W. BRASS

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of doing this, in view of the corroborative evidence that would result in having two instead of one?

Mr. CLYNES

I will consider that point, which is quite new to me.