§ 94. Commander Galbraithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the need for an increase in the strength of the Police Force in Glasgow; and what steps he proposes to meet the situation.
Mr. FraserYes, Sir. Arrangements have already been made for the resumption of recruitment to the regular Police, and it is hoped that between 40 and 50 recruits from civilian sources and from men released from the Armed Forces on Class A terms will be taken on before the end of this month. Arrangements have also been made for obtaining new recruits direct from the Armed Forces. These will be released on Class B terms, and a recruiting mission of three chief constables, including one from Scotland, is about to set out for the Middle and Far East for the purpose of interviewing candidates 1121 who are serving too far away to be able to come to this country for interview. In addition, a special arrangement was instituted some time ago for the release on Class B terms, subject to military necessity, of policemen who are serving in the Armed Forces. One hundred and fifty-seven Glasgow officers have already returned to the Police Force under this arrangement, and I am consulting my right hon. Friends who are in charge of the Armed Services in the hope that they will find it possible to expedite the return of the remainder.