§ 31. Mr. BELLENGERasked the Home Secretary what was the strength of the Metropolitan Police, both reserves and permanent, immediately before the reserve was disbanded; and what is its present strength?
§ Sir J. SIMONI assume that the hon. Member refers to the release in 1919 of the re-engaged pensioners who served during the War. Seven hundred and sixteen such men were serving then, together with 18,637 of the regular Force. The strength of the regular Force is now 19,030.
§ Mr. BELLENGERHas there been any increase in the strength of the force?
§ Sir J. SIMONI am afraid that should have to have notice of that question.
§ 32. Mr. BELLENGERasked the Home Secretary what saving in man-power has been effected in the Metropolitan Police through the introduction of traffic lights and police boxes; and what, if any, has been the consequent reduction in the strength of the Force?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe installation of traffic light signals in the Metropolitan Police District has released 425 constables for other duties, and the authorised strength of the Force has been reduced by that number. It is not possible to give a similar figure in regard to police boxes, the introduction of which was only one feature in a general scheme of reorganisation.