HC Deb 31 October 1932 vol 269 cc1436-7
57. Mr. REMER

asked the Home Secretary if he will state the reasons why he is objecting to the appointment of the new chief constable in the borough of Congleton?

Sir.J. GILMOUR

Congleton is one of the boroughs whose police force would be merged with that of the county if the recommendations of the Select Committee on the amalgamation of small police forces are given statutory effect. All appointments of chief constable are subject to the approval of the Secretary of State; and in view of the Select Committee's report, my predecessor informed the watch committee that he would hesitate to approve a new appointment to the Congleton police force which might have to be terminated in the near future; especially as the abolition of the post might result in a substantial charge in respect of compensation for loss of office. The question is receiving further consideration in the light of representations which have been made to me by the watch committee.

Mr. REMER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the new chief constable is quite aware of the circumstances to which he has alluded, and is quite prepared to take the risk?

Mr. MICHAEL BEAUMONT

Does that mean that the recommendations of the Select Committee are to be given effect to at last?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I cannot add anything to the answer which I have already given.