HC Deb 21 June 1937 vol 325 cc838-9
47. Mr. Anstruther-Gray

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can make a statement regarding the proposed increase in the strength of the Glasgow Police Force?

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Wedderburn)

I am in communication on this matter with the Corporation of Glasgow, and am not in a position at present to make any announcement.

Mr. Anstruther-Gray

In view of the fact that there is considerable local feeling in favour of the increase, will the hon. Gentleman use every endeavour to see that a decision is reached, either on the part of his own Department or on the part of the local authority?

Mr. Stephen

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very extensive public opinion against this increase?

Mr. Wedderburn

The local authority is primarily responsible for the police, and if there is any question of increasing the force, the usual practice is for the local authority first to decide whether the increase is justified, and then to submit the proposed increase to the Secretary of State for his approval. In this case the corporation have asked for my right hon. Friend's views before coming to any decision, and he is accordingly conducting an inquiry into the facts, and hopes to be able to reply soon.