HC Deb 05 May 1955 vol 540 c1887
31. Lieut-Colonel Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he is taking on the recommendation of the Police Council in favour of a 44-hour week.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir Hugh Lucas-Tooth)

My right hon. and gallant Friend is considering this recommendation, in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland. It involves a number of detailed amendments to the Police Regulations which would have to be laid before the statutory police councils. He hopes to be in a position to make a statement in the near future.

Lieut-Colonel Lipton

Will the Joint Under-Secretary of State bear in mind that the police have been waiting very patiently and for a long time for some such concession? Will he expedite as much as possible the steps required to give effect to this very reasonable request?

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

I am, of course, aware of the interest taken by the police in this matter, but I would prefer in present circumstances not to add anything to what I have said.

Mr. Ede

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this is a compromise on the original request of the Police Federation?