§ 24. Major Anstruther-Grayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many special constables have been enrolled 718 during the last 12 months; how many hours training is expected of these men; and to what extent volunteers are still required.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Henderson Stewart)During the 12 months ended 31st May, 1953, 361 men and 113 women were enrolled in the Special Constabulary, which is 3,897 short of its present authorised establishment of 13,157. The arrangements for training special con-Stables vary from force to force.
§ Major Anstruther-GrayArising out of that reply, which shows that there is still a considerable need for volunteers, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he is satisfied that those who do volunteer are given sufficient opportunity and encouragement to make themselves really efficient?
§ Mr. StewartI think that the chief constables have varying experiences on that matter and that some of them are proposing to alter their schemes with the object which my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind.