§ 16. Captain DOWERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the statement by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, in his report for 1932, to the effect that deliberate attempts have been made to stir up discontent in the force; if he can state the disciplinary action which has been taken against those responsible for.such attempts; and whether, in recent times, there has been less cause for complaint on the ground mentioned?
§ Sir J. GILMOURYes, Sir, but I do not think it would be in the public interest to enter into further deails on this matter at this stage. Full opportunity will be afforded at a later date for discussion of the matters raised by the Commissioner of Police in his report.
§ Captain DOWERWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind the importance of seeing that these federation boards are not permitted by means of propaganda or otherwise to endeavour to cause or foster discontent in the police force, who are a loyal body of men, second to none?
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESWill the right hon. Gentleman tell the House whether the Government have yet considered this report? If so, have they arrived at any conclusion, and is it intended to implement the recommendations, or any part of them, by legislation?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe right hon. Gentleman says that it is not in the public interest to discuss the matter further at present.
§ Mr. LANSBURYOn a point of information. Several newspapers have stated quite categorically that the Government are proposing to bring in legislation. We should like to know whether they have that intention. We are not asking to discuss the report.
§ Sir J. GILMOURI will shortly issue, a White Paper for the information of the House and legislation, no doubt, will follow.