§ Mr. GARDNERasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the numerous recent dismissed police charges, he will state what is the amount and, in general terms, the nature of the instruction given in procedure and evidence in the police training school?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIn the course of training for Metropolitan Police recruits, special attention is paid to the subjects mentioned. The course at the Training School for candidates lasts normally for 10 weeks, but may be extended to 17 weeks; after appointment to the Force the recruit has further instruction in his division for six months or more, and the greater part of this instruction is in police evidence and procedure, including 25 lessons specifically1780W devoted to the subject in the candidates' course, and practical instruction and attendance at police courts and police stations under the guidance of experienced officers. I should like to add that the dismissal of a case should not be regarded as reflecting on the capacity of the officer presenting the evidence.