HC Deb 04 April 1935 vol 300 cc581-2

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

5.43 p.m.

Duchess of ATHOLL

This Clause refers only to the subordinate ranks of the various police forces in India, I would like to know whether the same -conditions will apply to the senior ranks of the police, and what is embraced in these subordinate ranks. The Clause is not quite clear.

Mr. BUTLER

The Clause states that, notwithstanding anything that has gone before in this Chapter, the conditions of service in the subordinate ranks of the various police forces shall be such as may be determined by or under the Acts relating to those forces. Of course, the members of the senior branches will be appointed by the Secretary of State. The Noble Lady will remember that in previous discussions reference has been made to many police Acts which cannot be altered without the previous sanction of the Government. It is those Acts which control the recruitment and conditions of service of the subordinate ranks referred to in the Clause.

Duchess of ATHOLL

Below what ranks are the police classified as subordinate?

Mr. BUTLER

The Indian Police Service includes all those who are recruited by the Secretary of State from the earliest stage. The subordinate ranks would be those below the rank of inspector—sergeants and so forth—and they will come under this particular Clause.

5.45 p.m.

Earl WINTERTON

May I point out to the Noble Lady that the intention of this Clause is to give to the subordinate ranks a protection somewhat similar to that which is given to the higher ranks by other provisions of the Bill? Under the Clause it would be impossible to employ a police constable except under the protection of the various Acts which are in force and if this Clause is passed, such a police officer will have a statutory right under those Acts which he would not otherwise have.