HC Deb 25 March 1948 vol 448 cc3317-8
11. Commander Noble

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent the undermanning of the Police Force in London is due to lack of living accommodation.

Mr. Ede

This is not a point on which it is possible to make an exact evaluation, but it is, unfortunately, clear that the present acute housing difficulties of the police in London are having a marked effect on obtaining and retaining recruits to the Metropolitan Police.

Commander Noble

Could the Minister say what steps he is taking to overcome this difficulty?

Mr. Ede

I have mentioned this matter in the Debate on the Consolidated Fund Bill earlier this week. I have supported the Chief Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in his appeals to the housing authorities to place some of the houses which they have available at the disposal of the police.

Captain Crookshank

Does that mean at the disposal of the policemen individually, or of the Commissioner, thus making them tied houses?

Mr. Ede

It all depends on what lines the local authority is willing to enter into negotiations. There are advantages both ways, but I would myself prefer that the policeman should be the tenant of the house.