§ 24. Miss Herbisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take on the representations against the illegal employment of special constables made to him by the Scottish Police Federation.
§ Mr. J. StuartExcept in certain areas subject to local Acts, special constables may be employed on police duties in an emergency or for the suppression or prevention of tumult or riot. It is for the chief constable to decide on what occasions, within these limits, their employment is justified.
§ Miss HerbisonSince the Scottish Police Federation feels very strongly on this matter and has made representations on a number of occasions to the Secretary of State, does he not feel that the time has now come when these duties should be made quite clear and that consultation should be held with the Police Federation?
§ Mr. StuartI think that what the hon. Lady has in mind should be achieved, because the Police (Scotland) Bill is at present going through another place and should clarify the law. As all will agree, it is, of course, necessary to train these special constables. They must have some time of duty.