§ 37 and 38. Mr. LUNN (for Mr. THORNE)asked the Home Secretary (1) whether he is aware that the new form of organisation of the Metropolitan Police canteen service, in which the management is to be removed from the elected representatives of all ranks and vested in a board of higher officials nominated by the Commissioner, is a breach of the undertaking given and implied by the present practice which has been established since 1920; and whether he will consider the appointment to the management committee of elected representatives of the Police Federation;
(2) whether, in accepting the recommendation of the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police respecting the reorganisation of the canteen service, he has considered the wishes of the members of the Metropolitan Police; and what steps he is taking to acquire the property and stocks of the present owners, the central canteen committee, as representing all ranks of the force?
§ Sir J. GILMOURSo far as I am aware, the new arrangements involve no breach of any undertaking. I have considered the representations made to me by members of the force and have reached the definite conclusion that it is neither necessary nor desirable to provide for the appointment of Branch Board representatives on the new committee of management. No steps are required in respect of the property, which will continue to be held by trustees on behalf of the force. Ample provision is made under the scheme for enabling members of the force to bring any suggestions to the notice of the Board of Management.
§ Mr. LUNNIs it not a fact that the management and control of these canteens under the elected members of all sections of the Police Force have been admirable within the last 12 years?
§ Sir J. GILMOURFrom the report made upon it, I think that they have been admirably conducted, but at the same time, the financial responsibility rests with the commissioner and myself.
§ Mr. LUNNIf the management has been admirable during the last 12 years and no complaints have been made, why 1714 make a change of this kind and eliminate the lower ranks of the force?
§ Sir J. GILMOURWhile it may have been admirable, I take the view that there is nothing which cannot be improved, and I am quite satisfied that this can be materially improved.