41. Captain A. Evansasked the Home Secretary whether the Defence Departments were consulted before the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis broadcast his appeal for volunteers for the Special Constabulary (men over 20) and the Metropolitan Police War Reserve (men over 30); and, in view of the Commissioner having found himself unable to take an increasing number of reservists into the police force on account of their being required for military service in the event of war, he will assure the House that an undue number of men will not be enlisted for these services who can be reasonably expected, on grounds of age and medical fitness, to be available for immediate active service of a definitely military character on the outbreak of hostilities?
§ Sir S. HoareCareful consideration has been given to the problem which my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind; and consultation with the Defence Departments took place some time before the Commissioner made his broadcast appeal for the Metropolitan Police War Reserve. As regards the Special Constabulary, this is not a new force. Special Constables are 572 not recruited merely for a war emergency: they are men who are ready on any occasions when need arises to assist the regular police force; and it would not be right to exclude from this service suitable men on the ground that they may be required for other duties in time of war.
Captain EvansWill the right hon. Gentleman say specifically whether the actual terms of the broadcast appeal for men of a minimum age of 30 were considered and agreed to by the representatives of the Defence committee referred to; and if so, how does he reconcile that with the urgent necessity of encouraging young and fit men to give preference to the Territorial Army?
§ Sir S. HoareIt would not be true to say that the actual form of words had been approved by all the Departments concerned. That is never done, but the general basis has been made clear time after time. We think that the first obligation of younger men is to the Territorial Army and the fighting services.