HC Deb 20 December 1945 vol 417 cc1521-2
33. Mr. Touche

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he is aware that ratepayers in Surrey, living within the Metropolitan police area, are, under existing legislation, liable to contribute to the Metropolitan Police Fund deficiency in respect of costs incurred by Metropolitan police courts and for the salaries of probation officers engaged in Metropolitan police courts, although the Metropolitan police court district is confined to the county of London; and if he will take steps to end this anomaly in the Police Bill or by other amending legislation.

Mr. Ede

I appreciate that the position to which the hon. Member refers is anomalous, and the point has been noted for consideration of the question of legislation when a suitable opportunity occurs. I do not think, however, that the Police Bill which does not deal with Metropolitan magistrates' courts affords a suitable opportunity.

Mr. Touche

Does the Minister appreciate that the Police Bill extends this anomaly by extending the Metropolitan Police area?

Mr. Ede

It extends it in some areas, and contracts it in others.