HC Deb 03 February 1949 vol 460 cc1825-6
35. Squadron-Leader Fleming

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many War Reserve constables have been demobilised during the year ended 31st December, 1948.

Mr. Ede

During the course of the year, the more highly qualified war reserves were absorbed in the forces as regular policemen and by the end of the year only 686 had to be discharged when the War Reserve was disbanded.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

In view of the present prevalence of crime and the lack of regular police officers would it not have been possible to persuade the remainder of these War Reserve constables to remain on duty or to ask them now to re-enrol?

Mr. Ede

All those who are suitable for continuation in the Force and desired to remain have been retained.