§ 7. Mr. Baldockasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will give further consideration to the recruitment of special police for traffic duties only, in view of the shortage of police for general duties.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeNo, Sir.
§ Mr. BaldockIn view of the continuing and disturbingly high level of crime and the general census of opinion that this is largely the result of an inadequate police force, will my right hon. and learned Friend have some original thinking done on this matter and, if necessary, really drastic action taken? There are six able-bodied policemen in Parliament Square at the moment who might he relieved for more important duties.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI will certainly consider the question of taking further steps to prevent crime. I do not think that the inclusion of special police for traffic duties only is a suggestion that fits in either with the traditions of the force or with what is needed for the solution of this problem.
§ Major Anstruther-GrayWill my right hon. and learned Friend bear in mind that the sort of man who is prepared to volunteer only as a speed "cop" is probably not the ideal type of policeman?