§ 31. Mr. McEnteeasked the Home Secretary the nature of any previous police experience of Commander the Honourable R. D. Coleridge, R.N., retired, who was recently appointed chief constable of Bedfordshire; the date and circumstances under which he was retired from the Navy; whether the appointment is in accordance with the statutory regulations made under the Police Act, 1919; and whether he has approved of such appointment?
§ Sir J. AndersonI understand that Commander Coleridge, who has not had previous police experience, served in the Royal Navy from 1919 to 1939, when he retired on medical grounds. I have already informed the standing joint committee that, on the information before me, I am unable to regard the appointment as satisfying the terms of Regulation 9 of the Police Regulations, and that I am, therefore, unable to approve it.