§ Mr. DORANasked the Home Secretary if he will inform the House regarding the differences that have arisen between the regular Metropolitan Police and specials; and what steps he proposes to take in order to avert discontent in the force?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThere have been a certain number of instances in which members of the regular police have shown resentment at the employment of the Special Constabulary Reserve on ordinary police duties, and representations have been made to me on the subject. The aim of the Special Constabulary—who give their very valuable services for nothing—is to assist the regular police and to act as a reserve in times of difficulty. It seems possible that this fact may have been lost sight of in some instances by the regular police, but I am confident that the good relations which normally exist between the two forces will soon be fully re-established. Steps have been taken to make it perfectly clear that any further instances of improper behaviour in this connection wilt be severely dealt with.