§ 7. Squadron-Leader Sir Gifford Foxasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what decision was taken at the recent police meeting, with regard to the present payment of overtime of 2s. an hour, against the average standard hourly rate of 2s. 7½d.; and whether any other concessions were made.
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Ede)After consultation with the Police Council, I have made regulations increasing the rates of payment for extended hours of duty to 3s. an hour for constables and 3s. 6d an hour for sergeants. The qualifying conditions were also relaxed in certain respects.
§ Sir G. FoxIs the Home Secretary satisfied that the overtime rate of one and one-sixth time is a fair amount to give the police?
§ Mr. W. J. BrownIs there any reason why we cannot apply trade union practice to the police and give them time and a quarter, time and a half and double time according to ordinary trade union standards?
§ Mr. EdeThis matter has been considered by the Police Council, the body which advises the Home Office on these questions, and I have given effect to their recommendations.
§ Mr. BrownIs the Home Secretary obliged to accept advice which is plainly contrary to ordinary trade union practice? Cannot he rise above the low levels of the Police Council?