§ 29. Mr. Culverwellasked the Home Secretary whether he will reserve from military service part-time unpaid special constables over 30 years of age, provided they had joined the special constabulary prior to the outbreak of war, and have performed, and continue to perform regularly and satisfactorily, an average of at least 12 hours duty per week?
§ Mr. PeakeMany part-time special constables are already in reserved occupations or are above military age, and their services will, therefore, remain available. As regards the remainder, my right hon. Friend does not think that he would be justified at present in asking that they should be relieved of their obligations for military service.
§ Mr. CulverwellIn view of the fact that these men have been giving their valuable services voluntarily since the outbreak of war, does the hon. Gentleman not think they deserve some special consideration, and will he look into the matter and make some arrangements on the lines of my suggestion?
§ Mr. PeakeWe have no evidence that there is any demand, either by these special constables themselves or by chief constables on their behalf, for them to be excused.