§ 3 Lieut.-Colonel Byersasked the Secretary of State for War the total number of ex-policemen serving with His 172 Majesty's Forces in the home and overseas commands, respectively, at the last convenient date; and the number at home and overseas, respectively, who have so far been offered Class B release for civilian police duties.
§ Mr. LawsonThe approximate number of ex-policemen serving in the Army at 28th February, 1946, was 600 in the United Kingdom and 1,200 overseas, a total of 1,800. I understand that about 1,000 are serving in the Navy, but figures are not readily available for the R.A.F. The total numbers of offers of Class B release which have been made are: Navy 2,737, Army 7,299, R.A.F. 3,215. No separate figures are kept for home and overseas. Offers have been made to all regular police who have been asked for by the Home Office and Scottish Office, except those who cannot be spared by the Services.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ByersWill the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that those at home are not given more favourable treatment in the Class B release offer than those who are overseas, as there is a certain amount of feeling about it?
§ Mr. LawsonI am not aware of that but I will make inquiries.