War Department Constabulary (Post-War Credit)

HC Deb 01 June 1943 vol 390 cc10-1

19. Mr. Ballenger

asked the Secretary of State for War why the members of the War Department Constabulary do not receive post-war credit granted to the Armed Forces; and whether post-war credit can be granted to these men?

Sir J. Grigg

Members of the War Department Constabulary are civilian employees of the Department. They are paid like other civilian employees of the Department; none of whom receives postwar credit. I see no reason for treating the War Department constables exceptionally in this respect

Mr. Bellenger

Is it not true that these constables have to perform certain military duties, and have to be proficient in the use of arms? Would not that bring them into the same category as those soldiers who do get this credit?

Sir J. Grigg

No, I am afraid not. They are employed and paid under civilian conditions.